Des Moines Emerges as a Thriving Hub for Nursing Professionals: High Salaries, Expanding Job Market, and a Lifestyle Rich in Opportunities Await
Here in Des Moines, Iowa, our vibrant city is not just the heart of the Midwest but also a growing hub for healthcare professionals, particularly nurses. With a population of over 215,000, Des Moines boasts a mix of urban charm and a friendly, community-oriented vibe. As a local nurse, I can tell you that the demand for nursing professionals is on the rise, with average annual salaries for registered nurses hovering around $65,000 to $77,000, significantly higher than the state average range of $62,000 to $70,000 and the national average of approximately $75,000. This thriving job market benefits from the city's unique geographical appeal, located near major highways and within commuting distance to cities like West Des Moines and Ankeny, where the healthcare industry is equally robust. The rich cultural tapestry of Des Moines, with its annual Iowa State Fair and bustling downtown, makes nursing here not just a career, but a lifestyle worth embracing.
Delving deeper into our nursing job market, it’s evident that the future looks bright. NurseRecruiter estimates that over the next five years, we will need approximately 1,000 new nurses to continue meeting our growing healthcare demands. Currently, we have around 5,500 registered nurses serving our community, a number that’s expected to expand as the healthcare landscape evolves – especially considering the influx of new hospitals and clinics in the area. Notably, we have major employers like UnityPoint Health and MercyOne, which offer not just traditional nursing roles but also opportunities in travel nursing and per diem positions. Interestingly, Des Moines has seen a swell in per diem nursing jobs, giving nurses the flexibility to balance their careers with personal pursuits. Compared to nearby cities like Cedar Rapids or Ames, our salaries tend to be higher, with Des Moines standing out for its extensive healthcare facilities and community support. For fellow nurses looking for local matches, I encourage you to check out platforms like NurseRecruiter, which can help connect talents with opportunities right here in our city.
As our healthcare infrastructure continues to evolve, it’s exciting to see a variety of new investments taking shape. Over the past few years, we’ve welcomed enhancements at prominent institutions like Broadlawns Medical Center, which specializes in mental health and community care, addressing critical public health needs that require skilled nursing professionals. The city is projected to grow by about 1% annually over the next decade, creating an even larger workforce need in the healthcare sector. Des Moines is not only rich in healthcare opportunities but also in lifestyle offerings, from the scenic Gray’s Lake Park to the vibrant murals of the East Village, making it a wonderful backdrop for those of us in the nursing profession. With numerous public health initiatives aimed at improving community care and outreach programs, our city reflects a commitment to health that translates directly into nursing roles. For nurses—whether you're seasoned professionals or considering moving to our friendly city—I encourage you to explore your passions through local opportunities, and if you're an employer, consider posting with NurseRecruiter to find the perfect fit right here in Des Moines.
