Explore Vibrant Nursing Opportunities in Kealakekua, Hawaii: A Rewarding Career Amidst Stunning Landscapes and Growing Healthcare Demand
Living in Kealakekua, Hawaii, I can confidently say that our charming little town offers not just picturesque views and a rich cultural history, but also a unique nursing job market that’s worth exploring. With an average salary range for registered nurses hovering around $34.00 to $44.00 per hour, this translates to an annual salary between approximately $70,000 and $92,000. These figures, while appealing, fall below Hawaii's overall median hourly wage for nurses, which stands at $40.70. Compared to the national average hourly wage of $37.57, we can certainly feel the pinch of the high cost of living in our beautiful state. While some major U.S. cities offer lucrative nursing salaries, the breathtaking natural surroundings and laid-back lifestyle here in Kealakekua provide a balanced trade-off for nursing professionals seeking more than just a paycheck.
The nursing job market in our town is ever-evolving, as the demand for healthcare professionals continues to grow. NurseRecruiter estimates that Kealakekua will need around 30 to 50 new nurses over the next 3-5 years to meet the increasing healthcare needs of our community. Currently, we have about 120 nurses working across various facilities in Kealakekua, taking into account our local population of approximately 1,300 residents. This means we're witnessing a robust supply-demand scenario, albeit with seasonal variations in travel nursing opportunities, particularly in the winter months when tourist activity peaks. Moreover, the per diem market is quite active here, providing flexible options for nurses looking to fill gaps in staffing. Within a 30-minute commute, we have several nearby cities like Kailua-Kona and Honaunau, where demand for nurses and travel nursing jobs tends to be more competitive, showcasing an average hourly rate of $39.00 to $45.00, which might draw some of our nursing talent towards their healthcare facilities.
In terms of infrastructure, Kealakekua is home to several healthcare facilities, with our two major players being the Kona Community Hospital and Queen's Health System, located in nearby Kailua-Kona. Each facility provides various nursing specialties, ranging from critical care to pediatrics, creating a dynamic environment for nursing professionals. Recent investments in telehealth services and expansion efforts indicate a growing commitment to enhancing local healthcare offerings. Moreover, our robust community focuses on preventive health initiatives, which can lead to more nursing opportunities. As we embrace our unique lifestyle characterized by surf, sun, and a close-knit community, living and working here can be immensely rewarding. According to recent projections, Hawaii's population is set to grow slightly over the next decade, further intensifying our healthcare needs. For those of you nursing professionals in our beautiful Kealakekua or thinking about relocating, I encourage you to check out NurseRecruiter for local job opportunities—and employers, don’t forget to utilize the platform to connect with potential candidates in our vibrant community.
