Toms River: A Growing Nursing Hub with Competitive Salaries, Expanding Opportunities, and a Vibrant Community Life
Here in Toms River, New Jersey, a unique blend of small-town charm and vibrant community spirit creates an inviting backdrop for nursing professionals. Nestled along the beautiful Barnegat Bay, we are not just known for our scenic waterfront and family-friendly attractions like the iconic Ocean County Mall; we proudly stand as home to a growing healthcare sector. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2022, registered nurses nationally earn a mean hourly wage of $39.81 and an annual salary of about $82,750. In New Jersey, those numbers tip upward, with state averages around $48.70 per hour and an annual salary near $101,600. In Toms River, as local estimates suggest, nursing salaries typically range from $72,000 to $92,000 annually, reflecting both our proximity to urban hubs and the unique demands of coastal living. Our city not only offers competitive salaries but also the allure of working amid lovely parks and festivals that evoke a community-centered lifestyle.
The job market for nursing here in Toms River is robust and expanding, with a projected need for around 400 new nurses in the next few years, resonating with a growing healthcare demand driven by our aging population. Based on state data and population estimates, we currently have approximately 2,600 nurses practicing in our city. The demand for travel nursing has been notably on the rise, especially during the summer tourist season when local healthcare facilities see an influx of patients. The total number of travel nursing positions tends to peak during this time, making it a hot spot for travel nurses seeking dynamic opportunities. We have several key healthcare employers in Toms River, including Community Medical Center and numerous ambulatory surgical centers. When we look beyond our city, nearby towns like Brick and Lakewood present interesting comparisons, revealing a broader nursing job landscape where salaries can be similar, while lifestyle choices vary from coastal serenity here in Toms River to the bustling environment of larger municipalities.
Our healthcare infrastructure is steadily evolving, with several hospitals, specialized clinics, and outpatient services laying the groundwork for diverse nursing roles. Noteworthy investments are being directed toward telehealth services and chronic disease management programs, fostering fresh opportunities for nurses in specialties like geriatrics and home health. Toms River, with its convenient location and increasing investment in local health initiatives, supports a thriving healthcare community poised for growth. With a population hovering around 95,000, and recent growth projections suggesting steady increases, our city continues to foster a welcoming atmosphere for all. Public health initiatives focusing on education and preventative care further empower our nursing workforce. Here in Toms River, we embrace a lifestyle rich in community events, local farms, and sandy beaches, making it an ideal place for nursing professionals. For those of us already working here or considering a move, I invite you to sign up to NurseRecruiter to explore local job opportunities that await. Employers can also utilize NurseRecruiter to connect with qualified candidates right here in our vibrant town.
