Hazlehurst, Georgia: A Hidden Gem for Nursing Professionals in a Thriving Community with Competitive Salaries and Unique Opportunities
Here in Hazlehurst, Georgia, a charming small town with a tight-knit community, we possess a unique allure that is difficult to resist. Nestled in the heart of Jeff Davis County, our city embodies southern hospitality and a slower pace of life, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of larger urban towns. For us nursing professionals, Hazlehurst offers a promising job market that deserves exploration. The average nursing salary in our city currently ranges between $28 and $31 per hour, translating to annual earnings of roughly $58,240 to $64,480. Comparatively, the state of Georgia has a mean hourly wage of approximately $31.50, with the national average clocking in just above at about $36.50. What makes Hazlehurst particularly intriguing is our proximity to larger cities like Macon and Valdosta, which in their own right have a more established healthcare infrastructure and diverse employment opportunities. However, it is precisely our peaceful charm and community-centered lifestyle that sets us apart, making it an excellent place for nurses seeking both career advancement and a quality living experience.
The nursing job market in Hazlehurst is robust despite our smaller population of approximately 4,400 residents. NurseRecruiter estimates that there are roughly 150 employed nurses currently working in the city. With a projected increase in demand for healthcare services driven by an aging population and a growing focus on healthcare access, they estimate we will need around 25 new nursing positions to be filled in the next few years. In terms of travel nursing, while we are not a hotspot compared to larger cities, Hazlehurst’s tranquil setting can be enticing for those seeking temporary assignments; we average about 15 travel nurse positions at any given time. Per diem nursing opportunities are available too, with around 20 available jobs in our city, supplying our healthcare facilities with the flexibility they need. Our healthcare landscape includes major employers such as Jeff Davis Hospital and various outpatient clinics, ensuring a consistent need for nurses. Taking a glance at nearby cities, like Baxley and Douglas, we notice a contrast—these towns not only have higher salaries but also a broader scope of healthcare facilities, which can lead to additional job opportunities.
Hazlehurst is rich in both life and healthcare infrastructure. With Jeff Davis Hospital being the cornerstone of our healthcare services, it provides essential emergency, inpatient, and outpatient care to the community. Alongside a few specialized clinics, we are gradually seeing investments in advancing healthcare offerings. For nursing specialties, there’s a growing demand for geriatrics and emergency care, reflecting our community’s needs and trends in healthcare. The population of Jeff Davis County has been experiencing steady growth, with a current growth rate of about 1% annually as of 2023, indicating potential future opportunities for nursing roles. Our town thrives on its vibrant community and cultural offerings, from local festivals to recreational activities that allow us to unwind. Public health initiatives, such as diabetes prevention and wellness programs, focus on improving local health metrics, further strengthening the role of nursing in our area. We live in a place that nurtures its workforce, showcasing what makes Hazlehurst a hidden gem in the nursing job market. For current and aspiring nurses, I encourage you to sign up on NurseRecruiter to find local job matches and explore further opportunities right here in our warm and welcoming community, where employers can also connect with local talent effortlessly.