Fort Benning, Georgia: A Thriving Nursing Job Market Driven by Military Connections and Community Growth
Here in Fort Benning, Georgia, the nursing job market is a vibrant tapestry woven into our community’s strong military and civilian interconnections. As a city deeply tied to the United States Army and home to thousands of service members and their families, healthcare demand is always on the rise, particularly in nursing roles. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for registered nurses in Georgia is approximately $69,300, translating to roughly $33.29 per hour. Locally, in Fort Benning, we see a salary range that tends to be a bit lower; NurseRecruiter estimates it to be between $62,000 and $66,000 annually due to the cost of living and demand dynamics. This is an appealing prospect compared to the national nursing average of $77,600 per year, as we enjoy the benefits of a relatively lower cost of living while supporting our local military and veteran populations.
In terms of job market robustness, Fort Benning is witnessing steady growth. With an estimated average of around 800 nurses currently employed in the area, the future looks bright. NurseRecruiter estimates that over the next 3-5 years, there will be a need for an increase of about 150-200 nurses, indicating a demand for new talent primarily due to retirements and expansions of local healthcare services. Further, travel nursing positions are notably prevalent here; the area experiences seasonal trends mostly during the summer when families move in and out with the military. Recent estimates suggest that there are around 120 travel nursing opportunities available during peak times. Our per diem nursing job market is also notable, with at least 30 registered positions across various healthcare facilities, including major employers such as Martin Army Community Hospital and Columbus Regional Healthcare System. When we compare Fort Benning with nearby Columbus, GA, we find that while salaries are similar, the competition and variety of job opportunities differ, as Columbus offers slightly more in the realms of specialized healthcare facilities.
Our healthcare infrastructure in Fort Benning is solid and continues to evolve. With institutions like the Martin Army Community Hospital providing wide-ranging healthcare services, the demand for specialized nursing roles—especially in trauma and critical care—is substantial. There's been recent investment in military healthcare facilities to enhance service delivery, indicating a commitment to public health that directly affects nursing roles within the community. Speaking of the community, Fort Benning's cultural fabric is rich; from the historic sites to annual events like the Infantry Soldier's Ball, our city offers a unique lifestyle marked by a strong sense of camaraderie and public service. As of the last census, our population hovers around 32,000, contributing to a dynamic atmosphere in this military town. For current and prospective nursing professionals looking to plant roots or find new opportunities, I urge you to explore what NurseRecruiter has to offer—sign up to discover local job matches that align with your career aspirations and help you settle into the welcoming environment that is Fort Benning. Employers can leverage NurseRecruiter to connect with our local talent pool as we navigate the evolving landscape of nursing together.