Explore Promising Nursing Career Opportunities in Maquoketa: A Growing Town with Competitive Salaries and a Supportive Community
Nestled along the banks of the Maquoketa River and surrounded by the lush backdrop of Iowa's rolling hills, Maquoketa is not only a quaint town filled with rich history and charming festivals, but it also boasts a growing nursing job market that holds promise for both local professionals and travel nurses alike. Here, salaries for nurses vary considerably based on specialties and experience, with averages estimated between $28.50 and $35.00 per hour, translating to annual salaries that can range from approximately $59,280 to $72,800. In contrast, Iowa’s statewide average is around $29.41 per hour and $61,153 annually, while the national average hovers at $37.24 per hour and $77,740 each year, according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Our small-town atmosphere, dotted with landmarks such as the historic Maquoketa Caves State Park and the vibrant downtown district, paints a picture of a close-knit community balanced with opportunity.
Analyzing the nursing job market here in Maquoketa, we see a robust environment aiming to meet the health care needs of our population, estimated at approximately 6,000 residents. NurseRecruiter estimates that we currently employ around 225 registered nurses, with projections suggesting that we will need an additional 60 to 80 nurses over the next five years due to the growth of local facilities and the aging population. Additionally, the demand for travel nurses has seen a steady increase, especially during peak seasons that coincide with hospital admissions or flu outbreaks. Per diem nursing jobs, which tend to attract those seeking flexible schedules, are also on the rise, serving as lucrative supplements to full-time roles. The healthcare landscape in Maquoketa includes several key employers, such as the Jackson County Regional Health Center and numerous local clinics, which provide ample job opportunities for potential nursing candidates. When compared to nearby cities like Clinton and Dubuque, we find that our nursing salaries are quite competitive, although job opportunities may differ based on each city’s healthcare infrastructure.
In terms of healthcare facilities, our town hosts the Jackson County Regional Health Center—an essential provider in our community—along with several outpatient services. Recent investments in local healthcare infrastructure signal growing opportunities for nursing specialties, particularly in geriatrics and family practice, as we work towards addressing the expanding needs of our aging population. Maquoketa’s tight-knit community fosters strong connections among healthcare workers, making it an enriching place to work and live. With a population growth trend projected to maintain its current pace, we can expect our nursing job market to continue expanding, spurred by ongoing public health initiatives that promote wellness and preventive care. For current and aspiring nurses, this is an ideal time to explore career opportunities here in Maquoketa. I invite you to sign up for NurseRecruiter to browse local job openings and enhance your career in our community—employers can also leverage this platform to find dedicated nursing talent right here in our backyard.