Exploring Golden, Colorado: A Thriving Nursing Job Market Against a Backdrop of Scenic Beauty and Community Wellness
Here in Golden, Colorado, nestled at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, we have a nursing job market that strikingly mirrors the natural beauty and vibrancy of our surroundings. Known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and the iconic Coors Brewery, Golden is not just a great place to live but an exciting locale for nursing professionals. Currently, registered nurses in our city can expect an average salary ranging from $34.00 to $44.00 per hour, translating to annual earnings between $70,720 and $91,520. This range, while attractive, is a bit lower than Colorado’s average registered nurse salary of about $37.00 per hour (approximately $77,000 annually) and significantly trails the national average of around $39.00 per hour ($81,000 annually). Despite this, the appeal of proximity to Denver and the outdoor lifestyle we embrace ultimately positions our local market competitively.
The nursing job market in Golden is robust, with the demand for both registered and specialized nurses steadily increasing. Based on the current population of approximately 20,000, combined with statewide workforce data, NurseRecruiter estimates that we have about 770 registered nurses currently employed here. In the next 5 years, we can expect a rise in demand, needing about 170 new nurses to adequately serve our growing community. With thriving healthcare facilities, such as the Lutheran Medical Center in nearby Wheat Ridge and various primary care clinics, the per diem and travel nursing markets here are worth noting. While not as saturated as larger cities, we do see an influx of travel nursing positions during the busy summer months when tourists flock to our outdoor gems, including Red Rocks Park and the Coors Brewery itself. Comparing ourselves to nearby Denver, which boasts a more extensive hospital network and potentially higher salaries, Golden still offers a desirable lifestyle that many nurses gravitate towards, balancing work and our cherished recreational activities.
Healthcare infrastructure in Golden is continually evolving to meet the needs of our community. Our local facilities offer specialties in critical care, pediatrics, and geriatrics, among others, shaping a diverse nursing landscape. Recent expansions in rural healthcare initiatives show promise for future investments, enhancing nursing roles across various specialties. As a city with a growing population of around 20,000 (projected to rise by about 1.5% annually), and a community deeply engaged in wellness initiatives and public health programs, Golden remains a captivating choice for nursing professionals. The blend of scenic beauty, proactive healthcare developments, and a welcoming community creates an environment ripe with opportunity. For nurses looking to thrive in our stunning city, I encourage you to sign up on NurseRecruiter for local job matches and explore the growing avenues we have here. Employers can also leverage NurseRecruiter to find dedicated local candidates eager to join or enhance our healthcare team.
