Explore Nursing Opportunities in Scenic Shelby, Montana: A Small-Town Gem Offering Competitive Salaries, Growing Demand, and Community-Centric Healthcare Careers
Living and working as a nurse in Shelby, Montana, is a unique experience steeped in a small-town charm that's rich in history and community spirit. Located in the northwestern corner of the state, our city boasts stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and easy access to Glacier National Park, making it a beautiful backdrop for healthcare professionals who aspire to balance work and life. Salaries for registered nurses (RNs) here range from approximately $29.45 to $39.18 per hour, translating to annual earnings between $61,176 and $81,658. In comparison, the national mean hourly wage for nurses is about $39.10, with an annual mean wage of $81,220, while Montana's averages stand at $32.32 hourly and $67,190 annually. When looking at our neighboring cities, it’s evident that salary rates vary slightly, with Great Falls offering around $36.27 per hour on average. Here in Shelby, we pride ourselves on being part of a close-knit healthcare community that values teamwork and compassionate care.
The nursing job market in Shelby is not just about salaries; it reflects a robust demand projected to grow in the coming years. NurseRecruiter estimates that our city needs around 10% more nurses over the next five years, reflecting the ongoing turnover and demand. With a current workforce of nearly 200 RNs, this means about 20 new nurses will be essential to meet patient care needs. Additionally, the demand for both travel and per diem nursing jobs is noteworthy, driven by the local healthcare providers, primarily the Marias Medical Center, which is an essential employer in the region. Compared to cities like Havre and Cut Bank, Shelby offers fewer travel nursing opportunities, particularly as our seasonal demands fluctuate with tourism peaks during the summer. The nearby city of Great Falls, with its larger healthcare facilities, offers a wider variety of job prospects, though Shelby’s lower cost of living makes our offerings quite attractive for those looking to settle down.
In terms of healthcare infrastructure, Shelby is home to a blend of facilities meeting diverse community needs. Apart from Marias Medical Center, we have several clinics and long-term care facilities that create exciting nursing opportunities across various specialties, including critical care, geriatrics, and pediatrics. Recent initiatives like the expansion of telehealth services have marked a promising trend in reducing barriers to healthcare access. With a population nearing 3,200 and a small growth rate, Shelby provides a tight-knit community atmosphere that fosters relationships among healthcare professionals. Public health initiatives, such as immunization campaigns and wellness programs, further augment nursing roles in our community. Living here means being part of an active, engaged lifestyle that values both work and personal connection. I invite all current and prospective nurses to explore opportunities through NurseRecruiter, where you can find the perfect job match suited to your aspirations and lifestyle right here in Shelby. Employers can also leverage NurseRecruiter to connect with local talent, ensuring our healthcare community continues to thrive.