Alton, Illinois: A Hidden Gem for Nursing Professionals with Thriving Opportunities and A Strong Community Spirit
Nestled along the Mississippi River, Alton, Illinois is a charming city that boasts a rich history, breathtaking riverfront views, and a strong sense of community. As healthcare continues to evolve, the nursing job market in Alton reflects both growth and opportunity. Currently, the average salary for nurses in our delightful city ranges from approximately $29.00 to $35.00 per hour, amounting to an annual salary of about $60,000 to $73,000. This places our local compensation slightly lower than the state average of $36.92 per hour and the national mean of $39.24 per hour, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Alton's small-town charm, with iconic spots like the Myring’s Hill, and a tight-knit community feel makes it an appealing destination for both the local workforce and traveling nurses alike.
The nursing job market in Alton shows promise as we look into the future. NurseRecruiter estimates that approximately 20% of our current nursing workforce, which stands at an estimated 700 registered nurses, will be retiring or transitioning out of the field over the next five years. Consequently, this opens up a pathway for nearly 140 new nurses to join our healthcare system. In addition, our city is experiencing an uptick in demand for travel nursing positions, especially during the summer months when tourist activity in our riverfront parks peaks. Comparatively, nearby cities like Edwardsville, Godfrey, and Wood River offer similar job opportunities but with salaries leaning slightly higher, aligning with their larger healthcare systems. In contrast, our local environment provides a slower pace with a strong community spirit that many nurses find appealing. Facilities such as Alton Memorial Hospital and a variety of outpatient clinics serve as the backbone of our healthcare community, providing numerous job opportunities and essential services.
Alton's healthcare infrastructure has been solidifying its reputation with recent investments in new technology and a renewed focus on patient-centered care. With approximately 4,000 residents working in healthcare-related professions, we find ourselves in a unique position where nursing specialties are thriving. Our healthcare facilities have been expanding services in areas such as geriatrics and palliative care, which are critically important given our growing senior population, currently estimated at 17%. Public health initiatives, including local vaccinations and wellness programs, demonstrate our commitment to maintaining our community’s health and ensure that nursing roles continue to evolve and expand. With easy access to larger cities like St. Louis, Missouri, just a short drive away, Alton provides not only a fulfilling job market but also a vibrant lifestyle filled with cultural experiences, beautiful parks, and a close-knit community. Whether you're a local resident or considering a travel nursing position, the Alton nursing job market is flourishing, and we invite you to explore your opportunities via NurseRecruiter, where you'll find valuable local job matches that may very well change your life. Employers can also leverage NurseRecruiter to connect with skilled nursing candidates right here in our backyard.
