Waukon: A Growing Hub for Nursing Opportunities in Northeast Iowa with Competitive Salaries and Strong Community Support
Nestled in the heart of Northeast Iowa, Waukon is a charming small town that boasts friendly faces and an exceptional nursing job market. Here in Waukon, we are proud of our vibrant community that is surrounded by picturesque bluffs and rich farmland. Our healthcare system is robust, with a primary facility, Veterans Memorial Hospital, serving as the cornerstone of our nursing workforce. The average salary for nurses in Waukon ranges from an approximate $22.45 to $31.95 per hour, translating to $46,675 to $66,456 annually, which is slightly below the Iowa state average of around $28.05 per hour and the national average of $36.96 per hour for registered nurses. This underlines a local commitment to providing competitive pay while maintaining a cost-effective lifestyle that many of us treasure.
In our local job market, estimates reveal that the current number of employed nurses in Waukon stands at about 100. With a projected increase in healthcare jobs, we expect around 20% growth in the demand for nursing roles over the next five years to accommodate an aging population. Travel nursing remains a viable option here, particularly during the surge of patient needs in winter months when respiratory illnesses peak. NurseRecruiter estimates that there are approximately five travel nursing contracts available in Waukon on average. Per diem positions are also flourishing, as many healthcare facilities look for flexible coverage to meet patient demands. Comparing our town to nearby Decorah and Lansing, which offer modest growth in nursing jobs and salaries, Waukon presents itself as an attractive option due to its affordable living and sense of community.
Waukon’s healthcare infrastructure includes not just our esteemed Veterans Memorial Hospital but also several clinics and long-term care facilities that are often searching for specialized nurses in areas like geriatrics and pediatric care. Further developments and investments are being made in healthcare to enhance our services and infrastructure, particularly as public health initiatives are gaining momentum to address the uniqueness of our local health needs. With a population of roughly 3,800, Waukon continues to grow steadily, and local health programs are focusing on preventative care and community wellness. All these aspects contribute to a promising and engaging nursing landscape. I invite both local and prospective nurses to sign up with NurseRecruiter to explore job opportunities in Waukon, and for employers here, it’s a tremendous tool to connect with skilled candidates that can meet the community's health demands.