Bloomington, Illinois: A Thriving Hub for Nursing Professionals with Competitive Salaries, Robust Job Growth, and an Engaging Community Lifestyle
Here in Bloomington, Illinois, we find ourselves not only surrounded by picturesque landscapes and the warmth of a tight-knit community but also entrenched in a vibrant nursing job market. As a resident, it’s inspiring to see how our city offers a conducive platform for nursing professionals, whether local or traveling. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average yearly salary for registered nurses in Illinois hovers around $80,400, translating to approximately $38.70 per hour. For those of us in Bloomington, the figures seem to align nicely with our city’s living costs and healthcare demands, estimating our nursing salaries to range from $73,000 to $86,000 annually, which is relatively competitive compared to the larger metropolitan areas in the state. What makes Bloomington unique are its stately landmarks like the historic David Davis Mansion and the lively Bloomington-Normal community, which together foster an environment rich in cultural events and health services.
The nursing job market in our area is noticeably robust, particularly given the predictions made for the next few years. NurseRecruiter estimates that there will be a demand for an additional 250 to 300 nurses in Bloomington, which constitutes about a 10% increase as the population continues to grow and the healthcare industry adapts. Currently, there are roughly 2,500 active nurses employed in our city, most notably at organizations like OSF St. Joseph Medical Center and Advocate Bromenn Medical Center. In comparison to nearby cities like Peoria and Champaign, which also present significant nursing opportunities, Bloomington’s competitive salary range and living lifestyle make it a desirable spot for both permanent and travel nursing positions. Travel nursing is somewhat seasonal here, with peaks generally occurring during summer months, allowing for more opportunities than many realize. Additionally, the per diem nursing sector here offers flexibility, often filling in at the same hospitals, with an estimated 150 per diem roles available.
Bloomington’s healthcare infrastructure is steadily expanding, with over 10 major hospitals and clinics that continuously demand a variety of nursing specialties, especially in critical care and geriatric nursing. Recent investments have led to improvements in facilities, such as expanded emergency departments and outpatient services, which speaks volumes about the commitment to quality healthcare in our city. As we also embrace initiatives focusing on mental health and preventive care, it’s clear that nursing roles will continue to evolve, catering to community needs. The population of Bloomington stands at about 77,000 and is projected to grow modestly over the coming years. This thriving community coupled with commendable public health initiatives enhances the attractiveness of our nursing job market. As we reflect on our local culture — from lively festivals to beautiful parks— it's evident that Bloomington is not just a place to work; it’s a place to call home. I encourage current and prospective nursing professionals to explore opportunities here and sign up with NurseRecruiter, where employers can also seek out local nursing talent to help serve our vibrant community.
