Hilo, Hawaii: A Nursing Job Market Flourishing Amidst Island Beauty and Community Spirit, Offering Competitive Salaries and Growing Opportunities
Here in Hilo, Hawaii, we live amid breathtaking landscapes, where the lushness of our surroundings is matched only by the richness of our community spirit. As a local resident and a nursing professional, I’ve watched our healthcare landscape evolve, reflecting the unique cultural fabric of our region. The nursing job market here is not only vibrant but also deeply influential due to the island's tourism and healthcare demands. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national average annual salary for registered nurses is $77,600, while in Hawaii, it's approximately $85,490, translating to around $41.00 per hour. In Hilo specifically, the salary for nurses ranges from $80,000 to $90,000 per year, offering a competitive edge in comparison to national figures. Hilo's cultural tapestry, with its strong sense of community showcased in events like the Merrie Monarch Festival, creates a fulfilling environment that enhances the lifestyle equation for nurses living here.
Analyzing the job market reveals a robust demand for nursing professionals, particularly given the projected increase in healthcare needs as our population ages. NurseRecruiter estimates that there will be a need for approximately 200 new nurses in the Hilo area over the next five years, mainly driven by retirements and the continuous growth of our healthcare facilities. Currently, there are about 1,800 registered nurses working in Hilo—this number corresponds to around 2% of Hawaii’s nursing workforce, reflecting our shared population dynamics and healthcare needs. Additionally, travel nursing looks to gain traction here, particularly during peak tourism seasons, which run from December to April. Although Hilo does not see as many travel nurses as more tourist-heavy areas like Waikiki, the flow of visitors meets the need for flexible care providers during busy periods. The local nursing job market boasts several prominent employers, including Hilo Medical Center, North Hawaii Community Hospital, and various outpatient clinics that provide essential services, making Hilo a good competitor with nearby cities like Kailua-Kona, where salaries can be slightly higher, yet living costs there are often less favorable.
Hilo’s healthcare infrastructure is experiencing active development and investment, providing significant opportunities for nursing specialists, especially in critical care, maternal-child health, and emergency services. Our community continues to grow, with about 45,600 residents as of the latest census estimates, showcasing a 3% growth rate over the past five years. Public health initiatives focusing on preventative healthcare and community health education are becoming increasingly vital, enhancing the role of nurses in our city. The landscape here is not just about the job market; it’s about rich cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and an engaging community lifestyle. So whether you’re a local nurse considering new opportunities or a travel nurse looking for your next destination, Hilo offers a unique blend of professional fulfillment and personal enrichment. Sign up to NurseRecruiter to explore local job matches tailored for you, and employers can leverage NurseRecruiter to find the right talent in our dynamic nursing market.
