Joplin's Thriving Nursing Job Market: Competitive Salaries and Expanding Opportunities amidst Scenic Beauty and Community Spirit
Here in Joplin, Missouri, the scenic beauty of the Ozark region meets a burgeoning nursing job market. Nestled at the crossroads of Missouri, Kansas, and Oklahoma, Joplin brims with small-town charm while offering modern amenities and healthcare facilities. The average annual salary for registered nurses in our city hovers around $59,550, translating to an hourly wage of approximately $28.60. Nationally, the average annual salary for registered nurses is $77,600, with a mean hourly wage of $37.30, and within Missouri, nurses earn a median annual salary of $65,590. These figures illustrate that while we may not reach the national level, our salaries remain competitive, especially when taking into account the lower cost of living here compared to larger metropolitan areas like Kansas City or St. Louis, which some might consider our regional rivals. Joplin’s accessible healthcare facilities, such as Freeman Health System and Mercy Hospital, paint a vibrant tapestry of opportunity for those in the nursing field.
Diving deeper into the nursing job market, we see an anticipated demand for nurses set to rise significantly over the next five years. NurseRecruiter estimates that Joplin will require roughly 300 new nursing professionals to fill roles created by retirements and expanding services. Currently, it's estimated that about 1,400 nurses work in the Joplin area, giving us a robust healthcare workforce to support a population of around 50,000 residents. Travel nursing opportunities are notably vibrant here, especially during the winter months when seasonal influxes require additional staffing in our local hospitals. Per diem nursing roles are also on the rise, catering to the flexibility many of us seek, estimated at around 180 available positions throughout the city. Compared to nearby cities like Carthage and Neosho, where job opportunities are limited, Joplin shines with a robust job market, built on a foundation of diverse healthcare facilities including 3 major hospitals, various urgent care centers, and home health agencies.
This city is not just about healthcare; it embodies an inviting community spirit and a manageable lifestyle reflecting its size. The healthcare infrastructure here is continually evolving, with recent expansions at Mercy Hospital and increasing telemedicine offerings enhancing accessibility. As our population grows steadily at about 1% annually, we see heightened demand across nursing specialties, particularly in geriatrics and mental health. The local culture is rich in history, including the Route 66 legacy and vibrant arts scene, from the Joplin Historic District to the nature-filled Wildcat Park. Public health initiatives, such as our local vaccination drives and community wellness programs, showcase an active commitment to the welfare of our residents, making Joplin a fulfilling place for nursing professionals. It’s clear that whether you’re a seasoned nurse or just starting out, our city’s evolving landscape offers myriad opportunities. To explore job openings right here in Joplin, sign up for NurseRecruiter, where local employers are eager to connect with nurses ready to make a difference, while employers can also find talented candidates to enrich our community.
