Thriving Nursing Job Market in Manhattan, Kansas: Opportunities, Growth, and Competitive Salaries Await Healthcare Professionals in the Little Apple
Here in Manhattan, Kansas—a vibrant college town often referred to as the “Little Apple” due to its youthful spirit—we foster a strong community and a growing nursing job market. With Kansas State University as our centerpiece, the city is filled with energy and opportunity for nursing professionals at all levels. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), registered nurses nationwide earn a mean annual salary of approximately $77,600, translating to about $37.25 per hour. In Kansas, those numbers shift slightly lower to a mean annual salary of around $69,580 or $33.50 per hour. Here in Manhattan, we estimate that average salaries for nurses may fall within the range of $63,000 to $72,000 annually, depending on experience, specialty, and work setting. This is a compelling contrast to the national average, making it a favorable market for both local and prospective nursing professionals.
The nursing job market in Manhattan is robust, mirroring national growth trends in healthcare driven by an aging population and increasing healthcare needs. With a population of just over 55,000, we estimate that around 600 registered nurses are currently employed in the city, with a projected demand for nearly 100 new nursing positions in the next five years. Notably, travel nursing opportunities are on the rise in our area, driven partly by the seasonal influx of students and workers during the fall and spring semesters, especially when flu seasons peak. While we have a solid contingent of permanent jobs in our local hospitals—primarily at Via Christi Hospital and the Manhattan Surgical Hospital—there are also substantial per diem nursing roles available, appealing to those seeking flexibility in their work schedules. In contrast, cities like Junction City and Topeka offer fewer positions and slightly lower salaries, making Manhattan a more attractive hub for nursing professionals. For those of us seeking new opportunities in nursing, visiting platforms like NurseRecruiter can connect us with local job matches.
The healthcare infrastructure in our city is commendable, with key facilities like the aforementioned Via Christi Hospital offering a range of specialties, including emergency care, pediatrics, and mental health services. Recent investments in healthcare technology and facilities showcase Manhattan's commitment to enhancing patient care, increasing demand for specialized nursing roles in areas such as geriatrics and family health. With the city's population growing over the last decade and expected to increase further, our nursing workforce must adapt to community needs, particularly as local public health initiatives target wellness, preventive care, and mental health support. Living in Manhattan blends a rich culture with an active lifestyle, offering vibrant dining, parks, and events that create a well-rounded community. As we navigate through a promising nursing job market, both current and aspiring nurses can find rewarding opportunities that cater to our professional aspirations right here in the Little Apple, and I encourage you to explore them through NurseRecruiter, where employers are seeking local talent just like us.
