Explore Thriving Nursing Opportunities in Jacksonville: The Perfect Blend of Southern Charm and Coastal Living Awaits
Here in Jacksonville, Florida, our vibrant city offers a unique blend of southern charm, coastal beauty, and an ever-evolving nursing job market. As the largest city in the contiguous United States by land area, Jacksonville presents an array of opportunities for nursing professionals. The average salary for nurses in our city ranges from approximately $65,000 to $73,000 annually, translating to around $31 to $35 per hour. In comparison, the Florida statewide average is about $67,000 annually or $32 per hour, while the national average hovers around $77,000 per year or $37 per hour, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. With landmarks such as the stunning St. Johns River, beautiful beaches, and a rich cultural scene, Jacksonville reflects a lifestyle that’s both dynamic and welcoming. Our city competes with nearby towns like Orlando and Daytona Beach, each boasting their own array of available nursing jobs and salaries.
An analysis of Jacksonville's nursing job market reveals a robust landscape with a growing demand for healthcare services driven by our expanding population. Currently, there are approximately 12,500 nurses working in the Jacksonville area, and projections indicate a need for an additional 2,000 nurses over the next five years to meet rising healthcare demands, reflecting a robust growth trend. Additionally, travel nursing opportunities are also prominent here, with about 400 positions available, particularly in winter—a season when many healthcare facilities see increased patient volumes. Per diem nursing roles are estimated to be around 1,200, offering flexibility for those looking to balance professional and personal lives. Our healthcare infrastructure includes major institutions such as UF Health Jacksonville and St. Vincent’s Medical Center, complemented by numerous smaller clinics and healthcare facilities. When we look at our neighbors—like Gainesville or St. Augustine—we see similar dynamism, but differences in salary ranges and available opportunities; for instance, Gainesville often sees slightly lower salaries despite a growing nursing workforce.
As we delve deeper into our healthcare infrastructure, Jacksonville houses roughly 30 hospitals and countless outpatient facilities, emphasizing specialties in critical care, pediatrics, and geriatrics, showcasing the diverse needs of our local community. Recently, investments in healthcare technology and facility expansions have bolstered the demand for specialized nursing roles. The city’s population is projected to grow by 10% over the next decade, driven by newcomers drawn to the area's lifestyle, including outdoor activities, local cuisine, and a warm climate. Our public health initiatives, like the Tobacco Free Jacksonville program, spotlight the efforts we are making to improve community well-being, which undeniably influences the nursing profession. In this ever-changing landscape, I encourage my fellow nurses—both local and prospective—to consider our beautiful city as their next career destination. Join us in Jacksonville, where the opportunities are as expansive as our beaches, and sign up for NurseRecruiter to discover the wealth of nursing positions awaiting you. If you're an employer looking for skilled professionals, consider using NurseRecruiter to connect with our talented community.
