Exploring the Thriving Nursing Job Market in Fairfield, Iowa: Opportunities, Salaries, and Community Impact for Healthcare Professionals
Here in Fairfield, Iowa, our nursing job market presents a unique blend of opportunities and challenges that mirror the calm yet vibrant spirit of our city. Nestled in the southeastern part of the state, Fairfield is known for its rich cultural tapestry, incorporating everything from local artisan markets to lush parks that beckon residents to enjoy the outdoors. For nurses, the city offers a competitive salary range, typically sitting around $60,000 to $70,000 annually, which places us slightly below the state average of $76,000 and the national mean of approximately $82,000. With a burgeoning community and a dedicated healthcare system, the demand for nursing professionals continues to grow, reflecting our commitment to providing quality care in a nurturing environment.
When we consider the broader trends in Fairfield's nursing job market, it's clear that opportunity abounds. NurseRecruiter estimates that over the next three to five years, our community will need approximately 250 new nurses to meet the growing healthcare demands. Currently, our city boasts around 1,300 actively employed nurses, a number that correlates closely with our local population of about 10,700 residents—a healthy share. Interestingly, travel nursing positions are becoming increasingly sought after, particularly during peak months like summer and the holiday season, where the influx of patients requires additional staffing. The per diem nursing market here is similarly robust, presenting great flexibility for those looking to balance work with life’s other vibrations. Within a 50-mile radius, we have several nearby cities, such as Ottumwa and Burlington, which vary in salary and lifestyle—with Ottumwa offering lower salary ranges average around $55,000 to $65,000—but each presents its own set of opportunities and community angles.
Our healthcare infrastructure continues to adapt, with key employers such as Jefferson County Health Center and local clinics needing specialist nurses equipped to handle everything from critical care to pediatrics. Recent investments in telehealth and community health initiatives underscore a growing recognition of the need for diverse nursing talent. As we look at the rate of population growth and the health challenges facing our community, it is clear that nursing roles are set to expand—especially for those specializing in gerontology and chronic disease management. Fairfield is a place where the community comes together, whether at our charming downtown events or through public health initiatives aimed at nurturing our residents’ well-being. For current and prospective nursing professionals, this city offers a compelling landscape to practice with purpose and passion. If you're eager to learn about job opportunities in Fairfield, I encourage you to sign up with NurseRecruiter, where you can find your perfect match in our thriving healthcare community, while employers can utilize the platform to connect with skilled local candidates eager to make a meaningful impact.