Terry, Montana's Nursing Job Market: Opportunities, Salaries, and Community Impact in a Rural Landscape
Here in Terry, Montana, the nursing job market is an essential part of our small-town fabric, where life ebbs and flows with the rhythm of agriculture and the great Montana outdoors. Nestled in the heart of the vast eastern plains, Terry boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding rolling hills and is a tight-knit community that values healthcare as a cornerstone of our local economy. As we look around, we see that our nursing professionals work diligently in facilities such as the Prairie Community Hospital and various clinics that serve our close-knit community, proving essential services in this rural landscape. In terms of salary, the average registered nurse here can expect to earn between $29.52 and $35.29 per hour, which yields an annual income ranging from approximately $61,000 to $73,500. These figures are slightly lower than the Montana statewide average, where registered nurses earn about $32.39 per hour, and the national average of $37.90 per hour. However, when you consider our affordable cost of living, the pay here certainly aligns with the lifestyle we enjoy, from our vibrant local events to outdoor recreational pursuits.
In analyzing the nursing job market in Terry, we find a dynamic landscape that holds potential for growth. With the population hovering around 600, the current nursing workforce comprises a little over 60 registered nurses. NurseRecruiter estimates that in the next several years, we may see a need for an additional 10-15 new nurses to meet the demands of our aging population and the increasing healthcare needs within the community. While Terry may not be a major hotspot for travel nursing, we do see a handful of travel nurses during the peak tourist season in the summer, attracted by our beautiful scenery and the chance to work in smaller, community-oriented healthcare facilities. Currently, the per diem nursing job market is modest, with a handful of shifts available at local facilities that cater to individuals seeking flexible hours. When we compare Terry to nearby towns like Miles City and Glendive, we see similar salary ranges; however, opportunities can differ. Miles City offers a larger healthcare facility with more extensive services, which may attract nurses looking for a bustling environment, while Glendive, slightly larger, shows a similar demand for nursing staff as well, but often offers higher salaries due to a competitive market.
As we take stock of the healthcare infrastructure here in Terry, we note that Prairie Community Hospital, a critical player in our community, serves various specialties, providing valuable services like outpatient care and emergency services. However, with recent investments in local health initiatives, such as mental health awareness programs and preventive health workshops sponsored by community organizations, the demand for specialty nurses is likely to grow. The total population in Terry has remained relatively stable, with a slight annual growth rate of around 0.2%, suggesting the need for reliable healthcare will continue to rise alongside our aging community members. Through it all, our local lifestyle thrives; we revel in the vibrant community spirit, annual events like the Terry Fair, and the scenic nature that surrounds us. For current and prospective nurses in our area seeking job opportunities, I highly encourage signing up with NurseRecruiter, not only to find local job matches but also to keep abreast of the growing opportunities in our ever-evolving healthcare landscape. Employers can equally benefit by utilizing NurseRecruiter to post their job openings and connect with dedicated local nursing professionals ready to serve our community with excellence.
