Dubuque, Iowa: A Promising Nursing Job Market with Competitive Salaries and Vibrant Community Life Alongside Growing Healthcare Demand
Here in Dubuque, Iowa, nestled along the picturesque Mississippi River, we’re fortunate to find ourselves in a region rich with cultural heritage and a burgeoning healthcare landscape. The nursing job market here offers promising prospects for both local professionals and travel nurses alike. With our median annual salary for registered nurses at approximately $63,000, which sits just above the state average of $60,900, we can enjoy competitive pay while experiencing the amenities of a small city. The national average for nurses stands at around $77,600, but with our unique blend of community spirit and vibrant local attractions — such as the stunning Eagle Point Park and the cultural offerings at the Dubuque Museum of Art — working as a nurse here can feel rewarding, both financially and personally. Unlike our bigger neighbors like Cedar Rapids and Iowa City, which have more extensive healthcare systems, Dubuque maintains its charm and accessibility while still providing a robust job market.
The nursing job market in Dubuque currently reflects a strong demand for skilled professionals. According to estimates, the city is expected to see a 12% increase in nursing jobs over the next five years, necessitating around 150 new nurses to meet the growing healthcare needs of our aging population. Currently, we have about 1,350 nurses employed in various settings, including our two major hospital systems: Mercy Medical Center and Finley Hospital. Moreover, the demand for travel nurses has grown, especially during peak seasons like summer when local events attract temporary residents needing additional healthcare. Per diem nursing opportunities are also ripe here, with estimates suggesting around 60 local per diem positions actively seeking qualified candidates. In comparison to nearby cities such as Galena, Illinois, and Platteville, Wisconsin, which may have fewer healthcare facilities, Dubuque stands out with its array of clinics and specialty care centers, ensuring both residents and professionals have ample options.
Healthcare infrastructure in Dubuque continues to develop, with recent investments in advanced medical technology and wellness initiatives paving the way for a healthier community. Currently, we host six major hospitals and numerous outpatient facilities, all of which are actively looking for nurses across various specialties, from pediatrics to geriatrics. Our population is approximately 58,000 and has shown steady growth over the past decade, which reinforces the demand for healthcare services and nurses. Public health initiatives such as local vaccination drives and wellness programs further highlight nursing's evolving role in our community. Here, in our beloved Dubuque, we embrace a lifestyle that blends small-town warmth with the excitement of cultural events and outdoor adventures. As we bridge the gap between our healthcare needs and workforce supply, I encourage my fellow nursing professionals, current or prospective, to explore the exciting opportunities available. If you want to seize this chance, I recommend signing up with NurseRecruiter, where you can find local job matches tailored for you, and as employers, don’t hesitate to use it as a platform to post your vacancies and connect with local talent.
