Mount Vernon, Missouri: A Hidden Gem for Nursing Professionals in a Strong Community with Promising Job Opportunities and a Vibrant Quality of Life
Here in Mount Vernon, Missouri, nestled in the scenic Ozarks, our nursing job market stands as a strong pillar of our community. With a population of around 4,300, Mount Vernon may be a small city, but it offers a tight-knit atmosphere, complemented by a surprisingly robust healthcare sector. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for registered nurses (RNs) in Missouri is approximately $64,490, which translates to an hourly wage of around $31.00. In Mount Vernon, nursing salaries usually range from $56,000 to $72,000, depending on experience and specialization. This is a bit lower than the national mean of $77,600, but when coupled with our low cost of living, it's a compelling choice for many. The vibe of our city is slow-paced, laden with natural beauty—think of scenic drives through pine trees with easy access to local attractions like the historic Mt. Vernon Square. While quiet weekends can be spent exploring the beautiful outdoor landscapes, our local healthcare facility, Lawrence County Hospital, is a cornerstone employer, not only drawing local nurses but also attracting travel nurses seeking respite in this area.
Diving deeper into the job market, the trend for nursing positions in Mount Vernon appears promising. NurseRecruiter estimates that we will need about 20-25 new nurses per year over the next three to five years, primarily driven by retirements and an increased demand for healthcare services as our population ages. Based on the nurse-to-population ratio in Missouri, we can estimate around 130-150 registered nurses currently working here. Travel nursing opportunities are moderate within Mount Vernon, with seasonal peaks typically occurring during summer and flu season, as local facilities experience fluctuations in patient volume. Per diem positions, meanwhile, are growing, with an estimated 15-20 per diem nurses active in the city. When we consider nearby cities like Joplin, Springfield, and Neosho, each with larger populations and more extensive healthcare infrastructures, the job market in Mount Vernon shines in terms of community focus and personalized care, though we may not feature the same salary ranges or a plethora of travel opportunities. Joplin, roughly 30 miles away, offers higher salaries—average around $68,000 to $85,000 annually for nurses—thanks to its larger medical centers and numerous facilities, creating a dynamic contrast in our local market.
Our healthcare infrastructure in Mount Vernon includes Lawrence County Hospital, which supports a variety of specialties, including emergency care and surgery, and is consistently expanding its capacity for inpatient services. Efforts to enhance public healthcare facilities have included recent investments and expansions aimed at adding more comprehensive outpatient services, which will ultimately attract further nursing talent to the area. The community is welcoming, with strong local traditions and annual events like the Mt. Vernon Arts and Crafts Festival, highlighting our vibrant culture. In total, Mount Vernon is a hidden gem for nursing professionals looking for a place with the potential for personal and professional fulfillment. While we embrace community and stability, we should also encourage our fellow nurses to sign up for NurseRecruiter to find job opportunities here. For employers, this platform can help in listing jobs and talent scouting in our local area. Together, we can enhance our healthcare landscape while enjoying the beauty that Mount Vernon has to offer.
