Hackettstown: A Hidden Gem in Nursing Careers Offering Competitive Salaries and Strong Community Support Amid Growing Healthcare Demand
Nestled in the picturesque hills of northwest New Jersey, Hackettstown is a town that balances small-town charm with a burgeoning healthcare industry. Here in Hackettstown, we pride ourselves on our vibrant community spirit and access to nature, yet the nursing job market is a crucial lifeline for our area. With major healthcare facilities like Hackettstown Medical Center contributing significantly to our local economy, the average salary for nurses currently hovers around $36.50 per hour, translating to about $75,950 annually. This figure is relatively competitive when compared to the median national salary for registered nurses, which stands at $37.31 per hour nationally, or $77,600 annually, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. While our wages are comparable to larger nearby cities such as Morristown and Dover, Hackettstown offers a unique appeal of quieter living, being just a short drive from lively urban centers, which makes it an inviting locale for both resident nurses and travel nurses looking for a respite from city life.
Our nursing job market reflects a robust demand, set against the backdrop of an aging population and the ongoing effects of healthcare reforms. NurseRecruiter estimates that there is a steady need for new nurses to fill roles in our community, with projections suggesting that we’ll need around 160 new nurses over the next five years to meet increasing needs. The current nursing workforce in Hackettstown is around 320, providing crucial care in various settings such as the bustling medical center and numerous clinics. While per diem and travel nursing opportunities are prevalent, especially during the summer months when tourism peaks, the market is not as saturated as in larger urban areas. Hackettstown’s competitors, like Phillipsburg nearby, offer parallel salary ranges but lack the same community-centric healthcare initiatives that we enjoy here. With the plethora of facilities—including primary care clinics, outpatient centers, and specialty practices—nurses are positioned to find their niche and contribute to community health in meaningful ways.
The healthcare infrastructure in Hackettstown is strengthening, with ongoing investments aimed at expanding services and facilities. Recent developments, such as the addition of new outpatient services at Hackettstown Medical Center, highlight the town’s commitment to improving local healthcare. The close-knit community thrives on active public health programs, such as wellness initiatives and health fairs, enhancing the collaborative spirit among healthcare professionals. With a population of approximately 9,800 that continues to see modest growth, our town is well-equipped to manage healthcare demands. Hackettstown is truly a hidden gem—a place where one can enjoy a fulfilling nursing career while embracing the wholesome lifestyle that small-town America offers. Whether you're a seasoned nursing professional or considering a travel nursing assignment, there are ample opportunities ripe for the taking here. Don’t miss the chance to explore new job matches in our city by signing up for NurseRecruiter, and to our local employers, be sure to post your job openings to connect with dedicated nurses ready to serve our community.
