Ames, Iowa: A Thriving Nursing Job Market with Competitive Salaries and Community Connection Amid Growing Healthcare Demand
As a resident of Ames, Iowa, I can confidently say that our nursing job market offers a unique blend of opportunity and community spirit, reflecting the heart of Midwestern values. Nestled between the scenic landscapes of Iowa State University, Ames combines the charm of a college town with healthcare innovation. Nurses here typically earn an average hourly wage of around $33 to $39, translating to annual salaries ranging from $68,640 to $81,120—figures that are competitive compared to the national average, where registered nurses earn approximately $37.24 per hour or $77,600 annually. Despite our city’s much smaller size compared to larger cities like Des Moines, the demand for nurses is growing steadily, fueled by an increasing population that reached about 67,000 in the latest census. With its vibrant cultural scene, including the celebrated Iowa State Fair and picturesque parks like Ada Hayden Heritage Park, Ames offers a lifestyle that goes hand in hand with professional growth for nursing professionals—especially for those considering travel nursing opportunities, as we are centrally located within commutable distance to larger urban centers.
The current nursing job market in Ames is characterized by stability and a rising demand for skilled healthcare providers. NurseRecruiter estimates that about 1,600 nurses are currently part of our local workforce, while the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects approximately 250 new nursing roles will become available in the next few years to meet the ever-increasing healthcare needs of our community. For travel nurses, the landscape is equally promising, especially during peak seasons such as summer, when hospitals and clinics often seek temporary help to accommodate vacationing staff and increased patient volumes. On top of that, the per diem nursing market in Ames is expanding as well, allowing flexibility for nurses looking to supplement their income. As for healthcare facilities, we’re fortunate to have notable institutions, including Mary Greeley Medical Center, which serves as a cornerstone of our healthcare system and provides a variety of nursing specialties. In comparison to nearby towns like Ankeny and Boone, Ames remains a hub of healthcare activity, often offering slightly higher salaries and a broader range of job opportunities, which makes it a desirable destination for nursing professionals.
Looking ahead, Ames is seeing exciting developments in its healthcare infrastructure, with ongoing investments aimed at enhancing service delivery and access to care. With a growing population that’s projected to increase by 3% over the next five years, our healthcare facilities are preparing for the demand that comes with it. Notably, the city has been proactive in introducing public health initiatives that underscore the importance of preventive care—because, after all, nurses are at the forefront of promoting health and wellness in our community. As we continue to improve our hospitals, clinics, and specialized care centers, it only reinforces the role of nursing as essential to the vibrancy of Ames. Whether you’re a seasoned nurse looking for new opportunities or a newcomer seeking to explore what our city has to offer, I encourage you to check out NurseRecruiter, where you can easily find job matches tailored to your expertise and career aspirations. For employers, it’s also a fantastic platform to post job openings and connect with talented local nursing professionals, further strengthening our community of care.
