Missouri's Thriving Nursing Job Market: Competitive Salaries, Rich Community Engagement, and Abundant Opportunities Await
Here in Missouri, we have a vibrant and diverse nursing job market that mirrors the state's unique character and rich cultural heritage. Missouri is known for its rolling hills, bustling cities like St. Louis and Kansas City, and a sense of community that runs deep. When it comes to nursing, the state boasts a competitive landscape, with the mean salary for registered nurses sitting around $36.72 per hour, translating to about $76,509 annually, according to recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is just slightly below the national average of $38.99 per hour and $81,220 per year, but Missouri's lower cost of living balances things out nicely for local nurses. With major attractions like the Gateway Arch and the beautiful Ozarks, nurses here enjoy a fulfilling career alongside a rich lifestyle.
The nursing job market in Missouri is robust and continues to show positive growth trends. There are approximately 106,640 registered nurses currently employed in the state, reflecting strong local demand as our population ages and healthcare needs evolve. The state also sees a steady influx of travel and per diem nursing jobs. NurseRecruiter estimates that the travel nursing market peaks during the summer months, corresponding to increased patient volumes and seasonal illnesses, making Missouri a rising hotspot for travel professionals. Additionally, with around 100 hospitals and numerous clinics across the state—including top employers like Mercy Health and BJC HealthCare—job opportunities are ample. When comparing our nursing market to neighboring Kansas, Missouri stands out with more competitive salaries and diverse job opportunities, fostering a welcoming environment for nurses looking to settle down or travel for work.
Our healthcare infrastructure is robust, with a focus on various specialties including pediatrics, geriatrics, and mental health services. Recent investments in healthcare facilities have further enhanced our capabilities, including new ambulatory care centers and state-of-the-art hospitals in urban areas. Notably, Missouri's population is currently around 6.1 million, with growth projected to continue in the coming years, contributing to an ongoing demand for skilled nursing professionals. The state's public health initiatives, such as programs focused on maternal and child health as well as combating opioid addiction, create further opportunities for nurses to engage meaningfully with regional communities. As we embrace the excitement of healthcare growth in Missouri, I encourage my fellow nursing professionals and prospective travelers to sign up for NurseRecruiter, where you can discover job opportunities tailored to your career aspirations. Local employers can also benefit by utilizing NurseRecruiter to post job openings and connect with qualified candidates right here in our beautiful state.
