Nantucket’s Flourishing Nursing Job Market: Competitive Salaries, Growing Demand, and an Idyllic Community Await Healthcare Professionals
Here in Nantucket, Massachusetts, we live in a picturesque island community known for its cobblestone streets, stunning beaches, and quaint New England charm. Our nursing job market is as vibrant as the flowers that bloom in spring, offering opportunities that reflect the unique characteristics of our island lifestyle. The average salary for nurses here is estimated to range from $35 to $45 per hour, which translates to an annual income of approximately $73,000 to $93,000. This is slightly lower than the Massachusetts state average of about $38 per hour and $79,000 annually, but remains competitive when compared to the national averages of $37 per hour and $77,500 annually. Lifestyle factors, such as the idyllic environment, close-knit community, and fewer living expenses related to high-paced urban life, contribute to our nursing salaries, making them appealing nonetheless.
As for the broader job market, the nursing sector in Nantucket is robust and expanding, with an increasing demand for skilled professionals that aligns with our growing population, which hovered around 14,000 as of the latest estimates. In the next five years, NurseRecruiter estimates we will need about 100 new nurses to serve our community, which amounts to a projected growth of about 9%. Currently, we have approximately 800 nurses working on the island, and the acute need for travel and per diem nursing jobs is particularly significant during the tourist season from late spring to early fall. Many local facilities, including Nantucket Cottage Hospital and various outpatient clinics and the growing number of elder care services, are primary employers for nurses here. When comparing us to nearby cities, such as Hyannis or Falmouth, our opportunities may be limited due to our size, but the picturesque setting and tight-knit community make this a unique place to work and live. Unlike larger hubs, we may not have as many facilities, but the camaraderie and quality of care in our local healthcare teams truly set us apart.
Nantucket is home to an array of healthcare facilities catering to various specialties, including pediatrics, geriatrics, and emergency care, allowing nurses here to gain diverse experiences despite the small size of our community. Recent investments in healthcare infrastructure, including upgrades to our hospital and a new elder care facility, signal a commitment to maintaining high-quality healthcare for our residents. Our community thrives on a culture of kindness, with countless local events and a focus on health and wellness initiatives that shape the very fabric of our lives. With about a 3% growth projection in our population over the next few years, the need for public health initiatives will continue to shape nursing roles. Whether you're a current nurse or considering joining us from elsewhere, Nantucket offers a blend of professional growth and an idyllic lifestyle. I encourage you to explore opportunities on NurseRecruiter, where you can easily find local job matches or, if you're an employer, post jobs to connect with our talented nursing workforce.
