Thriving Healthcare Opportunities Await in Centralia, Southern Illinois: A Community-Focused Nursing Market with Competitive Salaries and Expanding Job Demand
Nestled in the heart of Southern Illinois, Centralia is a small city that brings together the warmth of community life and a burgeoning healthcare job market. Known for its rich history and charming downtown, we have our own remarkable spot in the nursing landscape. Here in Centralia, nurses can expect to earn between $25 to $35 an hour, translating to an annual salary range of $52,000 to $72,800. Comparatively, the state average sits around $33.21 hourly and $69,000 annually, while the national average is approximately $37.70 per hour or $78,350 a year according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Centralia's affordable cost of living adds extra appeal, offering a comfortable lifestyle complemented by friendly neighborhoods, local fairs, and access to nature at places like the Centralia City Park. With our close-knit atmosphere, it’s easy to see why many choose to both relocate here and serve our community as healthcare professionals.
Analyzing the current nursing job market, Centralia presents a vibrant scene requiring an estimated 10% increase in nurses over the next five years, reflecting ongoing job growth and the need to fill retirements. We have approximately 300 to 350 registered nurses working in the area, which correlates with the city’s population of around 13,000. For travel nurses, the market here is considered moderate; while we do not see high seasonal spikes as larger cities do, there are consistent opportunities for travel assignments, especially in summer when local healthcare facilities experience increased patient volumes. Per diem roles also abound, with over 100 listings regularly available, driven by local healthcare facilities like SSM Health's Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital and several community clinics. When we compare ourselves to nearby cities like Salem and Mount Vernon, Centralia boasts lower housing costs but slightly less competitive salaries, averaging around $30 an hour for nurses in those cities.
Centralia's healthcare infrastructure reflects a commitment to community wellness, with about five major healthcare facilities operating locally, each specializing in various services, from general nursing to pediatrics. Recent developments in the region signal investments in healthcare services that promise to expand job opportunities, evident in local talks about new clinic establishments and updated technology in existing facilities. Our community embraces a slower pace of life supported by public health initiatives focusing on preventative care and wellness programs, which resonates with many local nurses. As we continue cultivating a culture of care, I invite my fellow nurses—current and prospective—to explore what Centralia has to offer as the demand grows. If you’re seeking an exciting yet modest place to practice nursing, consider signing up with NurseRecruiter for job opportunities in our area—employers can also utilize NurseRecruiter to discover great local candidates ready to become part of our story.
