Pittsburg, Kansas: A Rising Hub for Nursing Careers in a Thriving Community with Competitive Salaries and Robust Job Growth
Here in Pittsburg, Kansas, we share a vibrant community and a burgeoning nursing job market that serves as a bedrock for both local healthcare and a draw for travel nurses. Nestled in the southeastern corner of the state, amidst our picturesque hills, Pittsburg boasts a rich history in mining and education, anchored by Pittsburg State University, which produces a steady stream of healthcare professionals. As of the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses in Kansas earn an average hourly wage of approximately $30.71, translating to an annual salary of around $63,980. However, here in Pittsburg, we can expect that average salary to hover between $27.00 to $32.50 per hour, or $56,160 to $67,600 annually, depending on experience. While affordable housing and a lower cost of living make our city appealing, we have nearby cities like Joplin, Missouri—less than an hour away—whose average nursing salaries tend to be slightly higher due to the diversity and scale of healthcare facilities located there.
The nursing job market in Pittsburg is currently experiencing robust growth, fueled by an increase in both resident population and healthcare needs. Estimates project a requirement for about 200 new registered nurses in the next five years. In terms of workforce, we have approximately 400 registered nurses currently working in the area, with several major employers including Via Christi Hospital, which encompasses a variety of specialties, along with multiple clinics and outpatient facilities. The demand for travel nursing in the area is noteworthy, especially during the summer months when local healthcare institutions often require extra hands to cover vacationing staff. Furthermore, our city accommodates a strong per diem nursing market, providing flexible opportunities for nurses looking to supplement their income. In contrast to neighboring cities, such as Chanute and Fort Scott, Pittsburg offers more comprehensive job opportunities, albeit at slightly lower salary ranges. Our city competes directly with Joplin, where the higher salary offers and larger healthcare systems can attract talent away from our community.
Pittsburg’s healthcare infrastructure consists of several key facilities, including our notable Via Christi Hospital and various specialized clinics that cater to the community's diverse demographic. Recent investments have been made into upgrading digital healthcare systems and expanding services that improve patient access, which in turn enhances our job market for nurses. With a population of around 20,000, our city is experiencing a steady growth rate, and projections show a potential increase in our nursing job opportunities as healthcare demands rise. Local health initiatives aimed at improving public health—like wellness programs and outreach clinics—further highlight the integral role of nurses in our community. Here in Pittsburg, we celebrate a lifestyle shaped by community involvement, educational opportunities, and outdoor activities in our beautiful parks. If you’re a nursing professional considering your next career move, you can find an array of job opportunities on NurseRecruiter. Let’s keep our healthcare community thriving while securing the best positions for us locally, and remember, employers can use NurseRecruiter to find qualified candidates right here in Pittsburg.
