Discover Thriving Nursing Opportunities in Goodland, Kansas: A Small Town with Big Career Potential and Community Impact
Nestled in the heart of western Kansas, Goodland may be small, but it offers a big opportunity for nursing professionals. With a population just shy of 4,500 residents, Goodland boasts a tight-knit community where healthcare plays a critical role in quality of life. The nursing job market here is unique and vibrant, primarily due to the presence of the local hospitals and healthcare facilities that cater not only to residents but also to individuals from surrounding rural areas. Recent data shows that Registered Nurses in Kansas earn an average of about $32.84 per hour, translating to an annual salary of roughly $68,297, while in our local Goodland area, salaries tend to fall in the range of $30 to $35 per hour. In comparison to national figures, where registered nurses earn about $37.31 per hour on average, Goodland offers competitive rates while maintaining the charm of small-town living. Situated near landmarks such as the distinct "Giant Western KS Cornfield Gopher," it’s easy to appreciate both the cultural richness and healthcare needs of our community.
Diving deeper into the nursing job market, Goodland is experiencing a growing demand for healthcare professionals. According to NurseRecruiter estimates, the number of new nurses needed in the area over the next 3-5 years is projected to be around 45, considering both retirements and the expanding population. The current nursing workforce stands at approximately 120 licensed nurses, allowing for a good balance of supply and demand, but with room for growth. Interestingly, the demand for travel nursing has crested in seasons typically aligned with the influx of summer tourists, while per diem nursing is also gaining traction, particularly in local clinics needing additional support during busy periods. With healthcare facilities like the Goodland Regional Medical Center leading the charge, our city is well-positioned to compete with nearby towns like Colby and Burlington, which have similar facilities but might face tougher job competition, thus offering varied opportunities and salary ranges for nurses interested in diverse lifestyles and job markets.
Goodland’s healthcare infrastructure is continuously evolving, with recent investments aimed at enhancing hospital facilities and increasing access to specialized care, especially in areas like emergency and elder care services. The community prides itself on its public health initiatives, which include vaccination drives and health awareness campaigns that engage local nurses in meaningful ways. Given our expanding workforce and the growth projections for our region, nurses in Goodland not only find a job but can also cultivate a career that makes a real difference while enjoying a friendly, small-town atmosphere. With an increasing need for nurses in specialties such as geriatrics and pediatrics, Goodland's strong community ties ensure that we’re more than just coworkers—we’re family. For fellow nursing professionals seeking new opportunities, sign up with NurseRecruiter to explore local job matches, as employers are eager to connect with talent from nearby regions. Whether you’re contemplating travel nursing or a permanent position, the heart of western Kansas may just be the perfect place to put down roots.
