Perry, Iowa's Thriving Nursing Job Market: Discover Opportunities, Competitive Salaries, and a Supportive Community in a Growing Healthcare Hub
Here in Perry, Iowa—a charming town nestled within the heart of Dallas County—we have a surprisingly vibrant nursing job market that is worth noting. With a population of approximately 7,600, Perry boasts a close-knit community that values healthcare and wellness. The average nursing salary here is around $30.36 an hour, equating to an annual salary of about $63,200. Nationally, the median hourly wage for nurses hovers around $37.31, with an annual average of $77,600, highlighting a notable regional discrepancy. But that variance also reflects the cost of living in our wholesome small-town setting marked by scenic parks, seasonal fairs, and the beautiful Raccoon River Valley. Despite being smaller compared to nearby cities like Des Moines—where the nursing salaries can peak up to $40 per hour—Perry has a unique appeal, particularly for local nurses who prefer a community-centric lifestyle intertwined with their professional pursuits.
The nursing job market in Perry is projected to grow, with NurseRecruiter estimating an additional 51 registered nurses needed to meet the increasing demand over the next few years. Currently, it is estimated that around 340 nurses are employed within our city, a figure that aligns with Iowa’s reputation for producing highly qualified healthcare professionals. Interestingly, while the demand for travel nursing in our area doesn’t rival hotspots like larger metropolitan centers, we've noticed a steady influx of temporary nursing positions, particularly during summer months when local hospitals report a high patient volume due to seasonal health issues. Per diem nursing is experiencing growth as well; in Perry, there are approximately 25 per diem nurses engaged in flexible work to fill shifts where needed across our healthcare facilities. In total, Perry is home to a handful of major employers like the Dallas County Hospital and several clinics, providing local opportunities for nurses aspiring to work full-time or part-time. By contrast, nurses in nearby towns such as Grimes or Urbandale often experience different salary ranges and work conditions, as their proximity to Des Moines brings a more competitive landscape—for example, it’s not uncommon to see offers reaching upwards of $42 an hour.
Perry’s healthcare infrastructure is quite robust for its size, with Dallas County Hospital leading the charge and a few urgent care centers supporting specialized needs. Moreover, as the town continues to invest in health-focused initiatives—like wellness programs targeting preventative care and chronic disease management—our nursing roles are diversifying and becoming increasingly vital. The community engagement here is unparalleled; we frequently come together for public health campaigns and events promoting well-being. As we look to the future, Perry's population, around 7,600, is projected to experience modest growth, bolstered by families drawn to our welcoming atmosphere and strong schools. This means that the demand for nursing professionals will likely persist, alongside continued investments in local healthcare facilities. So whether you’re a seasoned nurse or a traveller seeking opportunities in a supportive community, Perry has much to offer, and we're excited to see how our nursing landscape evolves. To explore job matches in Perry, don’t forget to sign up for NurseRecruiter! Employers can also benefit by using the platform to connect with local candidates eager to embrace our hometown's healthcare opportunities.
