Highlands, North Carolina: A Growing Nursing Oasis Amidst Scenic Beauty and Community-Centric Healthcare
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Highlands, North Carolina is a stunning oasis, known for its charming downtown filled with unique shops and eateries, not to mention the breathtaking waterfall hikes nearby. The nursing job market here has its unique flair, influenced by the region's mix of adventure seekers and retirees requiring healthcare services. For nurses, salary ranges are estimated between $30.78 and $40.85 per hour, translating to an annual salary between roughly $63,000 and $85,000. These figures resonate well with state averages found in North Carolina, which remains around $30.00 to $36.00 per hour according to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, the local market feels distinct; here, we find ourselves in a close-knit community that values personalized care and the kind of connection that comes from living in a small town. Commuting to larger nearby towns like Franklin or Sylva may offer different opportunities; however, Highlands holds its own with a reputation attractive to both local and travel nurses.
As I look around, the job market in Highlands is experiencing a nurturing growth, with projections indicating that we will need about a 20% increase in nursing staff over the next five years, in part due to the aging population and ongoing developments in our healthcare systems. Currently, there are approximately 180 registered nurses providing care, with many local employers noticing an uptick in requests for travel and per diem nurses. Being a smaller town, travel nursing jobs are limited but can be found at local facilities, especially during peak seasons like the summer months, when more tourists flock to the area. The healthcare infrastructure is robust, featuring several clinic facilities and the Highlands-Cashiers Hospital, a key employer in the area. When I compare this picturesque town to neighboring Franklin, which boasts a larger healthcare system yet fewer picturesque surroundings, I find we maintain a unique allure that pulls, not just residents, but traveling healthcare professionals who appreciate the scenic backdrop.
In Highlands, we have a healthcare landscape that strikes a balance between meaningful interactions and the growing need for specialized nursing roles, such as geriatrics or acute care. Recently, there has been an increase in investments aimed at enhancing local facilities and expanding services to better accommodate our aging population, focusing on both preventative and responsive healthcare initiatives. With a population hovering around 1,100 but swelling with seasonal visitors, growth rates in the area hint at a bustling future for our community and its healthcare services. The recent public health campaigns aimed at increasing awareness of health and wellness showcase our commitment to a healthier population, ultimately influencing our nursing roles and practices. As we navigate this evolving landscape, it is essential for current and prospective nurses to stay informed and involved. I encourage you to register on NurseRecruiter for local job opportunities or to post your openings if you're an employer eager to connect with our dedicated local talent. Highlands is not just a haven for tourists; it's a place where nursing professionals can truly thrive.
