Exploring Jacksonville, North Carolina: A Thriving Nursing Job Market Driven by Military Heritage and Community Growth
Here in Jacksonville, North Carolina—a city enriched by its military heritage and vibrant, close-knit community—we witness an intriguing nursing job market that both supports local professionals and attracts those looking to explore the region as travel nurses. With a population of just over 70,000, Jacksonville is home to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, which significantly influences our healthcare landscape. The average salary for nurses here generally falls between $26.50 to $37.50 per hour, translating to an annual income of approximately $55,200 to $78,000, according to local estimates from NurseRecruiter. For context, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median annual salary for nurses nationwide is about $75,330, while North Carolina’s mean salary hovers around $67,610. The cost of living here is reasonable, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle that makes Jacksonville appealing for current and prospective nurses alike.
The local nursing job market is increasingly robust, shaped by growing demand for healthcare supports. NurseRecruiter estimates that Jacksonville is projected to need around 550 new nurses in the next five years, which would reflect an increase of approximately 15% in our nursing workforce. Currently, there are about 3,700 registered nurses working in the city, with a steady influx of travel nursing and per diem positions. The peak seasons tend to align with the influx of military families during summer moves and holidays, making our area an attractive hotspot for travel nursing opportunities. Key employers include Onslow Memorial Hospital and numerous outpatient clinics that focus on specialty care. Nearby cities like Wilmington, with its slightly higher cost of living and competitive healthcare job market, offer different dynamics. Nurses looking to commute might also consider New Bern and Greenville, where modestly higher salary rates can be found, yet the nursing demand in Jacksonville remains appealing due to its diverse positions and welcoming atmosphere.
Jacksonville's healthcare infrastructure is impressive, considering its size. The city is home to several healthcare facilities, including specialty clinics focusing on pediatrics, women’s health, and mental health services. Recent efforts by community leaders have geared towards expanding facilities and improving health services, with ongoing investments expected to increase job availability. Our community is not just about healthcare; it thrives in its people-oriented lifestyle, offering local parks, a blend of coastal activities, and a strong military camaraderie that fosters lasting connections. Our population continues to grow steadily at around 1.5% annually as families seek the values and opportunities present in North Carolina. There are also notable public health initiatives in place, focused on mental health, wellness, and chronic disease management that expand the roles of nursing professionals within our community. We invite fellow nursing professionals to explore all the opportunities Jacksonville has to offer by signing up for NurseRecruiter, where you can discover job matches tailored just for you, whether you are an experienced nurse looking for a stable role or a travel nurse seeking adventure in a vibrant city. Employers can also leverage NurseRecruiter’s platform to connect with local nursing talent, fostering a stronger healthcare community here in Jacksonville.
