Oakdale, Minnesota: A Thriving Healthcare Hub Offering Competitive Opportunities and Community-Centered Living for Nurses
Here in Oakdale, Minnesota, we pride ourselves not only on our tight-knit community and beautiful parks, but also on our thriving healthcare ecosystem that offers ample opportunities for nursing professionals. Nestled just a stone's throw away from the bustling Twin Cities, Oakdale finds itself at a unique intersection of suburban charm and urban accessibility. Our local nursing salaries average between $31.50 and $38.00 per hour, translating to an annual salary range of approximately $65,000 to $79,000, which is in line with the state average of $34.82 per hour or $72,500 annually and slightly below the national numbers of $37.41 per hour or $77,800. With the nearby Twin Cities enticing many healthcare professionals, we hold a strong position, competing on various fronts with St. Paul, which lies just 10 miles away and offers slightly higher salary brackets due to its larger healthcare facilities.
The nursing job market in Oakdale is robust and vibrant. According to NurseRecruiter estimates, our city will need around 350 new nurses over the next five years to meet the demands of our growing population, which currently sits at approximately 30,000. Based on Minnesota's overall workforce data, Oakdale likely employs about 1,200 nurses, providing a well-sustained supply for local facilities. Travel nursing and per diem opportunities are also present, with an estimated 150 travel nursing positions available here throughout the year, peaking during the summer months when demand rises for temporary staff as local healthcare facilities ramp up for seasonal patient inflow. Our top employers include the nearby Regions Hospital and HealthEast, which not only serve our immediate vicinity but also pull talent from the Twin Cities metro area. Compared to our neighboring Maplewood and Woodbury, Oakdale offers a more community-centered lifestyle, which can contrast with the more urban pace and slightly higher pay rates in those areas.
As we look to the future, Oakdale's healthcare infrastructure is poised for growth and innovation. The city has seen investments in local clinics and outpatient facilities that cater to chronic disease management and preventive care, thus increasing demand for nursing specialties such as family practice and geriatrics. Our community, with a population growth rate of around 1% annually, continues to welcome new residents, contributing to a stronger public health system and igniting initiatives focused on wellness and accessibility. This community spirit is palpable in our local events, farmer's markets, and recreational activities that unite us. As we embrace the incoming changes, Oakdale represents a commendable balance of personal and professional fulfillment for nurses looking to make a positive impact. Whether you are already working nearby or considering a move here, I encourage you to explore your options on NurseRecruiter, where local job matches are readily available, while offering employers a robust platform to find local candidates.
