Mount Vernon, Illinois: A Hidden Gem for Nursing Professionals with Competitive Salaries and Growing Job Opportunities in a Charming Community
Here in Mount Vernon, Illinois, we are proud of our small-town charm intertwined with the dynamics of a growing nursing job market. Nestled in the heart of southern Illinois, our city boasts a welcoming community and rich historical background, complemented by unique local landmarks such as the Cedarhurst Center for the Arts and the scenic Rend Lake. In the nursing profession, we're seeing a competitive salary landscape, with registered nurses in Mount Vernon earning an estimated annual average ranging from $56,000 to $65,000, which is close to the average state salary of $67,000 and a national average of approximately $77,000. The relatively lower cost of living here in Mount Vernon makes our salaries quite appealing, especially when compared to nearby cities like St. Louis, where nursing salaries rise but at a much higher cost compared to what we enjoy in our beloved town.
Diving deeper into the nursing job market, we see a robust demand for healthcare professionals. The local nursing workforce comprises around 400 registered nurses, with projections indicating a need for an additional 50 to 70 nurses in the next five years to accommodate an aging population and expansion in healthcare facilities. Mount Vernon has two major hospitals, including the Crossroads Community Hospital and the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, along with several clinics that create an inviting job market for both local residents and traveling nurses. Interestingly, travel nursing isn't hugely prevalent here but does experience a seasonal spike, particularly in the summer months when staff shortages at local facilities rise. Our per diem nursing market is modest but crucial, offering local nurses the flexibility to work additional shifts at competitive hourly rates. Compared to neighboring towns like Centralia and Salem, Mount Vernon stands out with a wider range of job opportunities and higher salaries, making the prospect of working here truly attractive. Moreover, we can always utilize resources like NurseRecruiter to discover local job matches and connect with facilities looking for skilled nursing professionals.
As for healthcare infrastructure, Mount Vernon is equipped with various facilities that cater to diverse specialties, from pediatrics to gerontology. Recent developments signal a commitment to investing in healthcare, with plans for expanding outpatient services and enhancing community wellness programs. The city itself, with a population of about 13,000, is steadily growing, showing a demographic increase that aligns with a rising demand for healthcare services. We also benefit from supportive public health initiatives that aim to improve health outcomes and encourage preventative care within the community. Our lifestyle here is characterized by a close-knit community, vibrant local culture, and easy access to outdoor activities which creates a delightful balance between work and play. Overall, the nursing job market in Mount Vernon presents a promising pathway for both current professionals and those considering a move here. I invite my fellow nurses to explore opportunities through NurseRecruiter, a simple and effective way to find available roles and connect with local employers eager for our skills.
