Carthage, Missouri: A Thriving Hub for Nursing Professionals with Competitive Salaries and Expanding Opportunities in a Supportive Community
Here in Carthage, Missouri, our charm as a small city is enveloped in a vibrant nursing job market that reflects both steady demand and competitive opportunities. Nestled around notable landmarks such as the Route 66 Drive-In Theater and our signature historic square, Carthage exudes a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Nursing professionals can expect to earn an average salary ranging between $26.50 and $33.50 per hour, which translates to annual earnings of roughly $55,000 to $69,600. Comparatively, the state-wide average in Missouri is around $31.40, while the national average hovers near $37.50 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Unique aspects of our city, such as affordability and a close-knit community, combine to create an attractive environment for local and traveling nurses alike.
Analyzing the job market, we witness robust growth in nursing positions, spurred by both an aging population and increasing healthcare needs. NurseRecruiter estimates that we will need approximately 100 new nurses over the next five years to meet demand. With a current workforce of around 500 nurses employed in or near Carthage, the demand is palpable. While travel nursing opportunities do exist, they’re not as prominent here, largely overshadowed by larger cities like Springfield, approximately 30 miles away, which offers more diverse contracts. In terms of per diem nursing, Carthage’s healthcare landscape accommodates flexible job options, particularly during peak summer months when tourism increases local hospital visits. Our major employers include Mercy Hospital Carthage and several local clinics catering to various healthcare specialties.
The healthcare infrastructure in Carthage is growing, with Mercy Hospital Carthage and various outpatient clinics at the forefront, maintaining strong demand for specialties such as emergency, pediatrics, and geriatric care. Ongoing investments in the region, including expansions of existing facilities, promise to bolster both capacity and nursing roles in the near future. With a population of around 14,300, we have witnessed a stable growth rate that reflects opportunities for nurses and their families. Initiatives like the Community Health Improvement Plan enrich our public health landscape and create additional roles as we tackle issues relevant to our residents. Here, in the heart of Carthage, we not only invest in our healthcare system but in each other, weaving a supportive community fabric for nursing professionals to thrive. For those seeking to navigate our exciting nursing job opportunities, I encourage everyone to sign up with NurseRecruiter, where job matches await both local candidates and prospective employers looking to tap into our burgeoning healthcare workforce.
