Ottumwa, Iowa: Emerging Nursing Job Market Offers Competitive Salaries and Community-Focused Lifestyle Amid Growing Healthcare Demand
Here in Ottumwa, Iowa, a small yet vibrant city, we are witnessing a growing energy in our nursing job market. Nestled between the Des Moines River and the rolling hills of southern Iowa, we boast a unique blend of rural charm and community spirit that nurtures both personal and professional connections. The nursing salary range here typically sits between $40 to $60 per hour, with annual salaries averaging from about $83,000 to $125,000, depending on experience and specialization. This contrasts with the national average of around $39 hourly and $82,000 annually, reflecting the local cost of living and demand for skilled nurses. Our city is rich in cultural landmarks, from the historic Wapello County Courthouse to the scenic Memorial Park, offering nurses not just jobs, but a fulfilling lifestyle interwoven with community engagement and history. Unlike nearby cities such as Fairfield and Burlington, which have slightly higher salary averages and larger healthcare facilities, Ottumwa provides a more intimate setting, creating a workplace culture that feels more like family.
The current state of the nursing job market in Ottumwa is robust, with a clear upward trajectory. NurseRecruiter estimates that over the next five years, we will need approximately 150 new nurses to meet the growing healthcare demands of our aging population and expanding healthcare facilities. With an existing workforce of roughly 600 nurses already serving our community, the supply is strong but must ramp up to keep pace with demand. Travel nursing opportunities here are also noteworthy, peaking during the winter months when many healthcare facilities experience seasonal fluctuations in patient volumes. Per diem roles further complement this landscape, providing flexibility for nurses seeking work-life balance or supplemental income. Major employers in the city include Ottumwa Regional Health Center, the VA Community Based Outpatient Clinic, and several skilled nursing facilities, which contribute to a vibrant job market. In comparison to nearby cities like Kirksville, Missouri, which offers wider job prospects and higher hourly wages, Ottumwa remains an attractive option for nurses seeking a community-focused lifestyle with growing opportunities.
Our healthcare infrastructure in Ottumwa is continually evolving to serve the needs of our community. With three major hospitals and numerous outpatient clinics, the demand for nursing specialties such as pediatrics, geriatrics, and emergency care remains high. Recent investments in our healthcare resources, including a new rehabilitation center and ongoing upgrades to our hospitals, are set to enhance our capabilities in patient care. The local lifestyle fosters a welcoming atmosphere, characterized by friendly neighborhoods and vibrant community events like the Ottumwa Art, Wine and Brew Festival. Our city, with a population of around 25,000, continues to grow steadily, creating a promising environment for healthcare professionals. Public health initiatives targeting preventive care and health education are also becoming increasingly important, emphasizing the crucial role of nurses in our community. As we navigate the evolving landscape of healthcare together, I encourage my fellow nursing professionals, whether local or considering travel opportunities, to explore our city’s job offerings. Sign up for NurseRecruiter to discover matches tailored for you, and for potential employers, leveraging this platform can help connect you with our skilled local candidates. In Ottumwa, we are not just a nursing community—we are a family committed to caring for each other and our neighbors.
