Sterling, Colorado: A Growing Hub for Nursing Professionals Amid a Thriving Agricultural and Healthcare Landscape
Sterling, Colorado is a small city located in Logan County, primarily serving as an agricultural hub and regional service center, with a population of around 14,000 residents. Known for its rich history and agricultural roots, the city also has a burgeoning healthcare sector, which supports a job market that is increasingly favorable for nursing professionals. Currently, there are approximately 500 registered nurses working in the area, with major employers including Sterling Regional MedCenter and several outpatient clinics and long-term care facilities. The job outlook for nurses in Sterling is promising, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 7% increase in demand for nurses nationwide through 2029, and local forecasts indicate that Sterling will require at least 50 new registered nurses within the next five years, largely driven by an aging population and an expanding healthcare infrastructure.
Nurse salaries in Sterling are competitive, averaging $75,000 annually, which is slightly lower than the national average of $80,000 but comparable to state-wide figures, where the average hovers around $77,000. Notably, however, the cost of living in Sterling is significantly lower than in larger cities, being approximately 10% below the national average. This lower cost of living makes Sterling an attractive option for both seasoned nurses and those entering the workforce. In terms of competition, while the job market remains robust, it is less saturated than in larger urban centers like Greeley, where nurses face a more competitive landscape. The community is supportive of public health initiatives, and recent investments, including an expansion of Sterling Regional MedCenter, aim to enhance health services. With easy access to U.S. Highway 6 and Interstate 76, commuting from nearby towns such as Julesburg or Holyoke is feasible, thereby expanding the potential workforce and providing nurses with diverse job opportunities. In summary, Sterling offers a small-town lifestyle integrated with a dynamic healthcare job market that supports professional growth and community health.
