Discover Nursing Opportunities in Chariton, Iowa: A Small-Town Haven With Competitive Salaries and Promising Job Growth in Healthcare
Here in Chariton, Iowa, nestled in the heart of Lucas County, our charming small-town atmosphere meets nurturing healthcare opportunities for dedicated nursing professionals. With a population of about 4,200 residents, Chariton boasts a vibrant community enriched with historical architecture, picturesque parks, and a sense of belonging that many larger cities lack. As the healthcare landscape evolves, Chariton remains a welcoming home for nurses, offering a competitive salary range that, based on recent estimates from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, falls between $24.00 to $30.00 per hour, translating to an annual salary of approximately $50,000 to $62,000. In contrast, the average national mean wage for registered nurses is around $39.00 per hour, or $81,000 annually. While we're fortunate to enjoy a lower cost of living here, we remain within commuting distance of larger cities such as Des Moines and Knoxville, which can also influence salary scales and job availability.
The nursing job market in Chariton is showing promising growth, particularly as our community ages and more healthcare services are demanded. NurseRecruiter estimates that there is a need for an additional 30% increase in nursing staff over the next three to five years, indicative of a healthy and expanding job market. Currently, we can estimate roughly 300 nurses are employed in various capacities throughout Chariton, and they play a crucial role in serving our hospitals and clinics. Travel nursing opportunities, while not as prominent due to our city's size, do exist, especially during peak seasons like summer and flu season. The per diem nursing market is also growing, providing flexible work options for nurses looking to supplement their income. Our leading healthcare employers include the Lucas County Health Center, which consistently seeks skilled nursing talent to fill vacant positions.
As for healthcare infrastructure, Chariton features the Lucas County Health Center and several primary care clinics that cater to our community's diverse needs. Investing in preventive care and patient education initiatives are becoming a central focus, enhancing our public health goals. The city is part of Iowa's broader public health initiatives, working collaboratively at the state level to address chronic health conditions and promote wellness. As we move forward, Chariton is also experiencing a gradual population growth, expected to rise approximately 3% over the next decade, which signals the potential for more healthcare advancements. In this vibrant community, nurses are not merely providers of care; they’re cherished members of our families, contributing to a culture of health and wellness that defines Chariton. For those considering our city, I invite you to explore the job opportunities available on NurseRecruiter, where both local and traveling nurses can find the positions that best suit their needs. Employers can also utilize this platform to connect with qualified candidates eager to serve our community.
