Cameron, Missouri: A Growing Hub for Nursing Careers Amidst Thriving Healthcare Demand and Small-Town Charm
Here in Cameron, Missouri, nestled between the rolling hills of the Midwest, we’re witnessing a dynamic shift in our nursing job market that reflects the broader changes across the country. The average salary for registered nurses here ranges approximately from $27.02 to $34.49 per hour, translating to an annual salary between $56,185 and $71,820 (this is significantly lower than the national mean of approximately $37.24 per hour or $77,600 per year). What makes Cameron unique, besides its welcoming small-town vibe, is its proximity to larger cities like Kansas City, about an hour and a half to the south, which can influence salary expectations and job opportunities here. Our charming downtown, dotted with locally-owned shops and cafes, alongside scenic parks and historic landmarks, creates a community atmosphere that makes being a nurse here a fulfilling experience.
Currently, the nursing job market in Cameron is quite robust, fueled by a growing demand for healthcare services. Estimates suggest we might need over 130 new nurses in the next few years to keep pace with the population growth and the aging demographic. As of now, about 450 nurses serve our community, translating to a nurse-to-population ratio that’s competitive for a city of our size—around 8.5 nurses for every 1,000 residents. The demand for travel nursing here is stable, with a noticeable uptick in opportunities during the summer months, likely due to vacation-related staffing needs in local healthcare facilities. Moreover, per diem nursing jobs are also available, catering to those who prefer flexibility, with numbers being highly influenced by local healthcare demand. We boast a few major healthcare providers in the area, including Cameron Regional Medical Center, which serve as the cornerstone of our nursing job market. When compared to nearby communities like Plattsburg and Lathrop, we offer a broader array of job opportunities, although wages tend to align closely, making the decision more about lifestyle than salary alone.
Cameron’s healthcare infrastructure is blossoming, with several clinics and specialized care facilities emerging to meet community needs. The recent investment in our local hospital has paved the way for expansions in orthopedic and geriatric care, increasing job opportunities for nurses in those specialties. As a community, we embrace a lifestyle marked by the simplicity and charm of rural living, complemented by community events and a populace eager to engage in local culture. Our city boasts a population of around 8,500, with growth projections forecasting continued increases in the coming years as new businesses and families move into the area. Initiatives such as our Healthier Missouri campaign highlight public health programs that engage nurses in preventive healthcare roles. Here, in our small corner of Missouri, the nursing job market is thriving, and for both current and prospective nurses, it’s an exciting time to be a part of our community. I invite you to sign up for NurseRecruiter for local job matches and opportunities, and let employers know they can use NurseRecruiter to post jobs and connect with talented nursing candidates in Cameron and beyond.
