Columbus, Montana: A Growing Nursing Job Market in a Supportive Community with Competitive Salaries and Rich Opportunities for Healthcare Professionals
Columbus, Montana, is a small but vibrant town nestled in the heart of Stillwater County with an extraordinary sense of community that permeates every corner. The nursing job market here reflects both our local values and the broader trends in healthcare. The average salary for nurses in Columbus generally ranges between $28.50 and $37.00 per hour, translating to annual figures of approximately $59,280 to $76,960. This is in line with the state average, where registered nurses earn around $35.32 per hour or $73,660 annually, which is lower than the national median of $39.90 per hour or $83,130 annually. With spectacular views of the Beartooth Mountains and a rich local culture, it's easy to see why many nursing professionals find their home here. Columbus may not have the same hustle and bustle as cities like Billings, but it delivers a quality of life that is unmatched—a strong community, friendly faces, and the natural beauty surrounding us.
In terms of the nursing job market, our town exhibits a solid demand for healthcare professionals. NurseRecruiter estimates that current employment for nurses in Columbus stands around 120, with a projection of approximately 40 new nurses needed over the next five years as our population continues to grow. Travel nursing opportunities, although not as frequent, have been particularly high during tourist seasons, primarily in the summer months when the surrounding outdoor activities draw in visitors. Per diem nursing jobs tend to be rather competitive, as local facilities often call upon nurses for short-term covers during peak times or unexpected absences. Columbus hosts a handful of healthcare facilities; the Stillwater Community Hospital is our dominant employer, complemented by smaller clinics and private practices. Compared to Billings, which has multiple large hospitals and a higher salary range of about $39.20 per hour, Columbus maintains a more personal touch in patient care while still providing essential work opportunities for nurses.
Overall, the healthcare infrastructure in Columbus is robust, with ongoing investments in facilities and services, signaling a future-oriented approach to community health. With a population of just over 1,000 residents, our close-knit environment allows nurses to establish strong connections with patients, fostering an enriching experience for everyone involved. The local government and health organizations have launched various public health initiatives, aiming to improve accessibility and health education among our residents, which further enhances the role of nursing in Columbus. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a newcomer considering travel nursing in our region, Columbus offers a blend of job opportunities and a welcoming community that enriches our nursing roles. For those searching for local job matches, or if you are an employer in need of dedicated nursing talent, NurseRecruiter is an invaluable resource for securing the right connections here in Columbus.
