Lincoln, Nebraska: A Thriving Nursing Job Market with Competitive Salaries and Promising Growth Opportunities in a Vibrant Community
Here in Lincoln, Nebraska, our city boasts a vibrant culture and a growing nursing job market that welcomes both local professionals and traveling nurses. Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, Lincoln is not only the capital of Nebraska but also a hub for healthcare innovation and excellence. The mean hourly wage for registered nurses in Nebraska, according to recent data, is approximately $32.83, which translates to an annual salary of around $68,300. In Lincoln specifically, nursing salaries range from about $29.50 to $37.00 per hour, or roughly $61,260 to $77,000 annually. This makes Lincoln an appealing option when contemplating relocation or temporary assignments, especially compared to the national mean salary of $40.63 per hour ($84,320 annually) as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The city’s robust healthcare facilities, including Bryan Health and CHI Health St. Elizabeth, are key players in this thriving market, well-known for their commitment to patient care and nursing support.
As I explore the nursing job market in Lincoln, I see a promising future with significant growth expected in the coming years. NurseRecruiter estimates that the demand for new nursing professionals will surge by about 14% within the next five years, driven by an aging population and ongoing healthcare challenges. Currently, Lincoln is home to approximately 4,500 licensed nurses, illustrating a competitive but fruitful job landscape. Travel nursing is particularly appealing here, with demand increasing during peak seasons such as summer, when facilities often experience staffing shortages due to vacationing personnel. Per diem nursing positions are also growing, with around 200 available jobs at any given time, offering flexibility and higher hourly pay for those who wish to work in various settings. Nearby cities like Omaha offer their own competing markets, with salaries around 10% higher and an even greater number of hospitals, like Nebraska Medicine, presenting opportunities that could draw nurses away from our capital. However, Lincoln's lower cost of living and strong community ties make it a comfortable choice for many.
Lincoln offers a rich tapestry of healthcare opportunities with facilities ranging from large hospitals to specialized clinics focusing on cardiology and pediatrics. Recent investments in healthcare infrastructure include expansions at major hospitals and community health initiatives aimed at improving public health outcomes. As a city with a population of about 290,000, Lincoln is experiencing steady growth and is projected to increase by about 8% over the next decade. Our community boasts an active lifestyle with events such as the popular State Fair and numerous parks like Antelope Park, which make it a great place to live and work. The public health initiatives here are commendable, with programs targeting preventive care and health education. For current and prospective nurses considering Lincoln, the vibrant job market and supportive community make it an excellent place to advance your nursing career. Don't forget to sign up for NurseRecruiter to explore local job opportunities, and remember, employers can use the platform to find qualified candidates who are just as passionate about healthcare as we are.
