Liberal, Kansas: A Thriving Hub for Nursing Professionals Offering Competitive Salaries and Strong Community Support in a Growing Healthcare Market
Here in Liberal, Kansas, we’re fortunate to live in a community that values and supports the nursing profession. Nestled in the southwestern corner of our great state, Liberal boasts a vibrant culture, rich history, and a burgeoning healthcare job market that increasingly attracts nursing professionals. The average salary for nurses here ranges from about $27 to $34 per hour, translating to an annual income of approximately $56,000 to $71,000. This stands in relative contrast to national figures where nurses earn an average of $38.10 hourly and $79,000 annually, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. While we may not boast the same high salaries as larger metropolitan areas, our lower cost of living and strong community connections make Liberal an appealing destination for nurses. We have local landmarks like the Dorothy’s House and Land of Oz that offer a unique touch, reminding us of our vibrant local culture and history.
Examining the job market as a whole reveals an encouraging outlook for nursing here in Liberal. NurseRecruiter estimates that currently, there are around 300 registered nurses working in our city, accounting for a workforce that continues to grow as demand increases. Over the next three to five years, we project the need for about 15% more nursing professionals as the population of Liberal edges toward steady growth. Additionally, travel nursing is gaining traction here, especially during peak seasons between spring and summer months, when many facilities either add capacity or need temporary assistance for vacations. Meanwhile, the per diem nursing market is also growing, seeing significant demand largely due to the flexibility it offers. Several healthcare facilities in Liberal, such as Southwest Medical Center and numerous clinics, continuously seek skilled nurses. Comparatively, nearby cities like Dodge City and Guymon, Oklahoma, present different challenges and opportunities. In Dodge City, for instance, the average nursing salary tends to be slightly higher, making it an attractive alternative for job seekers with similar lifestyle qualities. Still, many of us appreciate the charm of Liberal and its sense of community.
Our healthcare infrastructure reflects the commitment to providing quality care, with more established facilities and ongoing expansions—Liberal is home to Southwest Medical Center, which frequently employs nurses across various specializations, including critical care, pediatric, and geriatric nursing. There are ongoing investments aimed at enhancing our capabilities, providing both professional growth opportunities and better patient care. The community is deeply connected, with active public health initiatives that focus on wellness and prevention strategies, such as our local health fairs and free vaccination events. With a current population of about 20,000, Liberal sees potential growth fostering more nursing positions and healthcare needs. Here, the modest charm of a tight-knit community harmonizes with the wealth of professional opportunities available. Whether you’re exploring new nursing roles, or thinking about making a move, we encourage you to sign up with NurseRecruiter to stay updated on local job opportunities. Employers can also leverage NurseRecruiter to connect with talented healthcare professionals eager to contribute to our growing community. Together, in Liberal, we’re cultivating a rewarding nursing landscape that’s poised for future growth.
