Keene, New Hampshire: A Promising Destination for Nursing Professionals Amidst Scenic Beauty and Strong Job Demand
Here in Keene, New Hampshire, our charming small city offers more than picturesque streets and vibrant community events—it's a growing hub for nursing professionals that deserve attention. As a city defined by its close-knit feel and abundant natural beauty, Keene presents a nurturing environment for healthcare practitioners. The nursing salary range in our area typically averages between $30 and $40 per hour, translating to an annual income of approximately $62,000 to $83,200. In contrast, the national average for registered nurses stands at around $37.24 per hour or $77,600 annually, while New Hampshire sees nurses earning an average of $38.12 per hour—meaning we're slightly behind our state-wide counterparts but still competitive. Nestled in the Monadnock Region, Keene is not only a scenic locale but also a growing healthcare market, with local landmarks like the picturesque Central Square highlighting our community spirit.
Diving deeper into the nursing job market here, forecasts indicate a strong demand for nurses in Keene over the next three to five years, with NurseRecruiter estimating the need for around 120 new nursing positions to emerge based on the projected population growth and healthcare needs of our community. Presently, we have approximately 900 registered nurses employed locally, based on state statistics correlated with our population of about 23,000 residents. A significant portion of the healthcare workforce comprises travel nurses and those working per diem; currently, there are about 40 travel nursing assignments available at any given time, peaking during the summer when local seasonal facilities and festivals drive up patient volumes. The presence of major healthcare employers, including Cheshire Medical Center and several clinics, bolsters the demand for nursing staff, while nearby cities such as Brattleboro, Vermont and Keene’s neighbor, Marlborough, offer additional opportunities—albeit typically with slightly lower average salaries ranging from $28 to $37 per hour.
As we explore the healthcare infrastructure in this area, the local scene is punctuated by a blend of community-focused health facilities and specialized centers catering to different patient needs. Recent investments in healthcare infrastructure have aimed to improve access and efficiency, creating promising job prospects for various nursing specialties—particularly in geriatrics and pediatrics, given our aging population and growth in young families. With a steady population growth rate, Keene exemplifies a vibrant community that blends modern healthcare efforts with rich local traditions. Our city is a warm amalgamation of outdoor activities, local festivals, and cultural attractions that enhance the quality of life for us, the healthcare workers. Many public health initiatives aimed at preventive care and wellness further highlight our commitment to nurturing community health. As a local nurse, I encourage fellow nursing professionals—whether current residents or newcomers—to explore the opportunities available, while inviting employers in the area to discover local talent via NurseRecruiter, ensuring that we can continue to make a meaningful impact in this beautiful city and beyond.
