Stillwater, Minnesota: A Growing Hub for Nursing Professionals with Scenic Living, Competitive Salaries, and a Thriving Healthcare Community
Here in Stillwater, Minnesota, the scenic views of the St. Croix River and historic 19th-century architecture frame our vibrant community, deeply rooted in values of care and compassion. As a local nurse, I have seen firsthand how our town is not only a beautiful place to live but also a growing hub for nursing professionals. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the average annual salary for registered nurses in Minnesota is around $79,790, with an hourly mean of $38.35. Yet, in our charming Stillwater, estimates suggest that the average nursing salary ranges between $34.50 and $40.20 per hour, slightly lower than the state average but reflective of the livable lifestyle we enjoy, from our leisurely riverside walks to local farmers' markets. As we quietly rival larger cities like St. Paul, Stillwater retains its unique character, allowing nurses to enjoy a blend of professional satisfaction and personal fulfillment.
As the demand for healthcare professionals continues to rise, the job market in Stillwater is becoming increasingly robust. Current estimates suggest that there are approximately 1,050 registered nurses employed in our city, with projections indicating a need for around 150 additional nurses over the next few years, representing an impressive growth rate driven by an aging population and healthcare advancements. Travel nursing positions are certainly a hot commodity here, particularly in the summer months when tourist traffic increases, leading to a higher demand for flexible staffing solutions. The per diem nursing market is steadily growing too, driven by local clinics and facilities seeking adaptable staffing to maintain quality care. We have notable employers such as Lakeview Hospital and Health & Rehabilitation Center, alongside numerous small clinics and home health agencies. Comparatively, nearby cities like Oak Park Heights and Forest Lake present different opportunities, with slightly lower salaries ranging from $33.00 to $38.50 per hour, while the city of Hudson, just across the river in Wisconsin, highlights a gap of about 5% less in nursing salaries but a comparable job market.
In terms of healthcare infrastructure, Stillwater boasts a strong network of facilities that cater to diverse specialties. With around 10 major healthcare establishments—including specialty clinics that focus on geriatrics, mental health, and pediatrics—our community truly focuses on comprehensive care. Recent investments in healthcare facilities, such as expansions at our local hospital, signal a commitment to improving services and meeting community needs year-round. Additionally, the city itself is experiencing steady population growth; we currently stand at around 19,000 residents, and projections point towards sustained growth over the next decade. Public health initiatives, like immunization drives and wellness programs, further illustrate how integral nurses are within community health. Living and working in Stillwater not only offers a fulfilling career but also immerses us in a supportive culture that truly values our contributions. For fellow nursing professionals looking to explore opportunities here, I encourage you to sign up with NurseRecruiter, where local job matches await. Employers in our community are also invited to utilize NurseRecruiter to post jobs and discover local talent ready to make a positive impact.
