Atchison, Kansas: A Rising Hub for Nursing Professionals Amidst Rich History and Community Charm
Here in Atchison, Kansas, nestled alongside the Missouri River, we boast a rich history that dates back to our founding in the 1850s. Known for its charming downtown area filled with Victorian architecture and warm local culture, Atchison also plays a significant role in the nursing job market within the region. As of 2021, the average salary for registered nurses in Kansas was around $31.43 per hour, translating to about $65,000 annually, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. In Atchison, where healthcare is steadily growing, we can expect local registered nurses to earn between $29.00 and $36.00 per hour, factoring in our smaller community size. You can feel the demand here; a growing number of healthcare facilities, such as Atchison Hospital and various clinics, have increased opportunities for nursing professionals to thrive. While larger cities like Kansas City offer more competitive salaries with a broader spectrum of specialties, Atchison provides a welcoming environment for those who appreciate a slower pace and a strong sense of community.
Examining the nursing job market, it's evident that Atchison is experiencing a robust demand for nurses. We estimate that around 250 registered nurses currently serve our bedside and community healthcare needs. With our population of approximately 11,000, we are projected to require an additional 55 to 75 nurses over the next five years due to factors like retirements and hospital expansions. As for travel nursing, Atchison might not be a hotspot like larger cities, but we do see an influx of travel nurses during the summer months when our local facilities ramp up services. The per diem nursing market is also notable; we estimate around 50 per diem opportunities are available throughout the city, responding to fluctuating healthcare demands and providing flexibility to local nurses. When compared to nearby towns like Leavenworth and Saint Joseph, Atchison offers similar salaries and job opportunities while maintaining a unique small-town vibe and a distinct sense of belonging, making it ideal for nurses looking for both professional growth and community connection.
Atchison's healthcare infrastructure consists of essential facilities, including Atchison Community Health Clinic and several assisted living centers, all contributing significantly to our local nursing scene. Recently, substantial investments in our healthcare system, including the expansion of specialty care services like geriatrics and chronic disease management, are underway and projected to enhance job availability. Atchison's community is vibrant, featuring local festivals, lovely parks, and an active arts scene, making it a wonderful place to live and work. With a growth rate that reflects Kansas's overall trend, we anticipate continued support for our healthcare initiatives, ensuring that nursing roles remain critical to our city's well-being. Local public health programs, particularly those addressing maternal health and chronic illness prevention, further underscore the importance of nursing in Atchison. For everyone, whether you currently live here or are considering making the move, the nursing landscape in Atchison reveals opportunities and a community that genuinely values the essential work that we do. I encourage you to sign up for NurseRecruiter to explore local job openings, and if you’re an employer, you can seamlessly post jobs and connect with dedicated nursing professionals in our area.
