Thriving Nursing Opportunities in Stafford, Kansas: A Unique Community Environment with Competitive Salaries and Growing Demand
Here in Stafford, Kansas, our small yet vibrant city is known for its strong sense of community and rich agricultural heritage, giving the nursing job market a unique flavor. The landscape is dotted with beautiful sunflower fields, and the essence of the Flint Hills makes for an inviting backdrop. For nursing professionals, the local job market offers a pace of life slightly different from big city hustle, but it is one filled with opportunities. Average nursing salaries in Stafford range from approximately $48,000 to $59,000 annually, which is comparable to the Kansas average of $55,400 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Nationally, the mean annual salary for nurses stands at $75,330. While we may not be the highest paying region in the country, the cost of living here favors our residents, creating a balanced lifestyle—something many urban areas cannot boast. While Hutchinson is just over 30 miles away, offering a more metropolitan vibe and slightly higher salary averages, our nurses enjoy a close-knit community and an environment that fosters strong professional relationships.
As for our job market, the demand for nurses in Stafford is on the rise due to upcoming retirements and the increased focus on healthcare. NurseRecruiter estimates that our city will need around 30 new nurses in the next few years to maintain adequate staffing levels. Currently, we have approximately 120 nurses working in various capacities—both full-time and part-time—throughout Stafford. In addition to traditional nursing roles, the per diem nursing market here is steadily growing, with flexible shifts appealing to many in need of supplemental income. While travel nursing may not be as prominent as it is in larger urban centers, Stafford does have opportunities, particularly during flu season and agricultural fairs. For those seeking work in nearby cities like Hutchinson or Great Bend, the nursing job market is more competitive, with greater numbers of healthcare facilities, including the Hutchinson Regional Medical Center and Great Bend Regional Hospital hiring actively.
The healthcare infrastructure in Stafford comprises a few critical facilities, with Stafford County Hospital being the primary employer of nursing professionals. The demand for specialties such as geriatrics and rehabilitation nursing continues to grow, driven by an aging population and a commitment to improving community health outcomes. Recent investments in local healthcare initiatives, such as telehealth services and wellness programs, are set to change the landscape of nursing roles in our area. Situated in a picturesque countryside environment, Stafford offers a leisurely lifestyle with access to local events and gatherings, fostering a community spirit that couldn't be more inviting to both residents and newcomers. As our population remains stable at approximately 1,800 people, ongoing nursing job opportunities are essential to maintain our community's healthcare standards. For current and prospective nurses in Stafford, I encourage you to explore job opportunities signaled through NurseRecruiter's tailored job matches, while also allowing local employers to showcase the positions they need filled. Being a nurse in Stafford means being a part of a tightly-knit community, dedicated to not only their patients but also to each other.
