Fort Harrison, Montana: A Thriving Nursing Job Market Amidst Scenic Rocky Mountains with Competitive Salaries and Promising Growth Opportunities
Here in Fort Harrison, Montana, nestled against the backdrop of the stunning Rocky Mountains, we are proud of our vibrant and essential nursing job market. With our unique blend of natural beauty and strong community ties, the scenic city serves as an inviting location not just for local nursing professionals but also for travel nurses seeking progressive healthcare roles. According to recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nurses in Montana earn an average hourly wage of approximately $32.14, which translates to an annual salary of around $66,259. Here in Fort Harrison, nursing salaries range from $62,000 to $76,000 depending on experience, specialty, and facility type, slightly above the state average, reflecting our city’s growth and demand for skilled healthcare professionals. While our state capital, Helena, is just a stone's throw away, Fort Harrison offers its own charm with landmarks like the Historic Fort Harrison and the serene Montana Veterans Affairs Health Care System, allowing for a unique blend of work and leisure.
The nursing job market in Fort Harrison is robust, bolstered by a projected growth rate of approximately 10% in the coming years as the need for healthcare services continues to rise. Here in our community, about 1,500 nurses are currently employed, with the city expected to see around 300 new nursing positions opened up over the next five years driven by retirements and the expansion of healthcare facilities. We are fortunate to have several significant employers, including the Montana VA and St. Peter’s Health, providing varied opportunities for specialization. In addition to traditional roles, the demand for travel nursing is on the upswing here, particularly during our busy summer months, while the per diem nursing market remains significant, offering flexible opportunities for those looking to supplement their income. Comparing Fort Harrison to nearby cities like Helena and Great Falls, we find that while salaries and demand may be somewhat uniform, our smaller town charm, combined with easy access to outdoor activities, offers an appealing lifestyle that attracts many healthcare professionals.
When considering Fort Harrison's healthcare infrastructure, it's clear that we have a variety of facilities catering to diverse specialties. There are approximately three major hospitals and numerous clinics that emphasize primary care, veterans' care, and critical care services. Recent investments in local healthcare development indicate a commitment to expanding our capabilities, enhancing our ability to attract nursing professionals eager to further their careers. With a population of about 2,800 residents, situated in an area that is seeing consistent growth, we remain a close-knit community filled with engaging cultural experiences, from farmers’ markets to annual community events. Public health initiatives in our region also spotlight a commitment to addressing healthcare disparities and improving community well-being, ultimately enhancing nursing roles throughout the area. Fort Harrison encapsulates a laid-back yet driven lifestyle where nurses can profoundly impact health while enjoying a beautiful natural environment. For nursing professionals, I invite you to sign up for NurseRecruiter to explore job opportunities in our city; local employers can also utilize NurseRecruiter to connect with talented nurses eager to join our healthcare community.