Growing Opportunities for Nurses in Oak Forest: A Thriving Community with Competitive Wages and Expanding Healthcare Services
Here in Oak Forest, Illinois, we have a unique blend of suburban charm and a growing healthcare scene that attracts both local and travel nurses alike. The nursing job market in our town reflects this vibrancy, with an average hourly wage for registered nurses hovering around $34.87, translating to an annual salary of approximately $72,000. This figure is slightly below the Illinois state average of $37.81 per hour and $78,600 annually, but certainly competitive when compared to the national average of $37.31 per hour and $77,400 per year. Moreover, with our city's proximity to Chicago, many healthcare professionals find opportunities that further influence salary ranges and job accessibility. The friendly community, proximity to notable landmarks like the Oak Forest Heritage Park, and quality of life here make it a desirable place for nursing professionals to live and work.
Looking ahead, our nursing job market is quite robust, with projections estimating a need for over 250 new nurses over the next five years as the population grows and healthcare demands increase. Currently, the workforce comprises around 1,200 employed nurses in Oak Forest, mirroring a typical distribution based on our population of approximately 30,000 residents. Additionally, we do see a steady demand for travel nurses, particularly during the flu season in the fall and winter months, coinciding with busy periods in local emergency departments. Per diem nursing jobs also thrive here, as flexibility becomes increasingly important for many healthcare workers, adding to the dynamic nature of our local job market. Major employers include Franciscan Health and various community clinics, all of which offer a broad range of specialties, thus catering to the multi-faceted needs of our diverse population. In comparison, neighboring cities like Tinley Park and Orland Park often provide slightly higher salary ranges but may lack the same sense of community connection that we enjoy here in Oak Forest.
The healthcare infrastructure in Oak Forest is steadily evolving, with new developments and investments aimed at enhancing our facilities and services. Currently, we have several hospitals and clinics that not only provide essential healthcare services but are also expanding their specializations to include in-demand areas like pediatrics and gerontology, creating further opportunities for nurses. Our vibrant community is marked by a wealth of local parks, shopping areas, and cultural events that foster a dynamic lifestyle. With a projected population growth rate of around 1% annually, we anticipate continued demand for healthcare services and nursing professionals. Importantly, our public health initiatives aimed at increasing vaccination rates and promoting wellness have resulted in requiring additional staffing for outreach programs, thus impacting nursing roles positively. So, whether you’re an established nurse looking for new opportunities or a travel nurse seeking a welcoming community, Oak Forest has much to offer. Don’t wait—sign up for NurseRecruiter today to explore our local job matches, and employers can also utilize the platform to connect with our talented nursing professionals.
