Winona, Minnesota Emerges as a Top Destination for Healthcare Professionals: Competitive Nursing Salaries and Thriving Job Market Amidst Community Charm and Rich Cultural Heritage
Here in Winona, Minnesota, we take immense pride in our vibrant community nestled along the mighty Mississippi River. Known for its picturesque views and rich history, Winona offers a unique blend of urban amenities and small-town charm. Recently ranked among the top 10 cities for healthcare jobs in Minnesota, it’s no wonder that nursing professionals are taking notice. With mean annual salaries for registered nurses hovering around $70,000, and hourly wages ranging from $32 to $37, our local nursing compensation is competitive compared to the state average of $75,000 annually and the national average of $77,600. While a vibrant nursing job market opens up right here in Winona, we inevitably draw comparisons with nearby La Crosse, Wisconsin, which typically offers slightly higher salaries in the $75,000-$80,000 range, but much of that can be attributed to varying living costs and demand levels.
As a city that prides itself on healthcare excellence, Winona is seeing a robust demand for nurses driven by an aging population and advancements in medical technology. Currently, we have approximately 700 registered nurses employed in the area, and with 15% growth projected through the next five years, we can expect to need around 100 new nurses to support our healthcare needs. In addition to traditional roles, travel nurses and per diem nurses are making significant contributions to local hospitals and clinics, particularly during peak seasons—typically summer and winter, when healthcare facilities experience higher patient volumes. Winona is home to several healthcare facilities, including the renowned Winona Health and Lake Winona Manor, which consistently seek qualified nursing staff. Compared to nearby cities like Rochester, where the nursing salaries and job openings are significantly higher, we offer a qualitatively different lifestyle, with a strong community focus and recreational opportunities such as hiking, boating, and cultural festivals.
The healthcare infrastructure in Winona is not just limited to nursing roles; we have a myriad of specialties that are thriving, including geriatrics, mental health, and pediatrics. Recent investments in our local healthcare facilities aim to expand services and improve patient care, affirming our city’s commitment to healthcare excellence. With a population of roughly 27,000, growing steadily at about 1.1% annually, Winona fosters a family-centric lifestyle that supports a healthy work-life balance, along with initiatives focused on public health that engage our community and create meaningful patient connections. The unique amalgamation of professional opportunities and a rich quality of life make Winona not just a place to work but a wonderful place to live—perfect for both current nursing professionals and prospective travel nurses looking to find their footing in a supportive environment. If you’re scouting for nursing jobs in our friendly city, consider signing up for NurseRecruiter for local job matches. Plus, employers can search and post jobs to connect with our enthusiastic pool of nursing candidates.
