Oakes, North Dakota: A Thriving Nursing Job Market in a Community-Focused Healthcare Hub
Nestled in the heart of southeastern North Dakota, Oakes is a small city renowned for its tight-knit community and picturesque landscapes, all while serving as a significant hub for healthcare services within the region. With a population of just over 1,800, we have a local healthcare infrastructure consisting of facilities such as the Oakes Community Hospital and several clinics that cater to our residents and those in nearby communities. The nursing job market here is dynamic and reflects an indispensable need for skilled professionals, with average nursing salaries ranging from approximately $24 to $32 per hour. This corresponds to an annual range of about $49,920 to $66,560, which is competitive against the state’s average hourly wage for registered nurses being around $33.66 and the national average at approximately $37.23, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Although we might not compete with larger neighboring cities, we do have our unique charm and opportunities.
Analyzing the nursing job market in Oakes reveals a growing demand for healthcare professionals. Our city is estimated to require an additional 10 to 15 new nurses over the next three to five years as we continue to prioritize healthcare services. Currently, the nursing workforce in Oakes consists of around 50 nurses, based on our population's share of North Dakota's total nursing workforce, which is approximately 11,000. Furthermore, Oakes has seen an uptrend in travel nursing opportunities, particularly in the summer as we experience an influx of patients due to tourism and outdoor activities. While the travel nursing market isn't as bustling here compared to larger cities like Fargo or Bismarck, it's noteworthy that we do see a steady presence of per diem nursing roles within our community’s healthcare system, often filled by local nurses seeking supplementary income. With approximately 5 to 7 major healthcare facilities in Oakes and the surrounding area, including critical access hospitals and specialized clinics, those seeking stability in their nursing career will undoubtedly find a diverse array of job options. In contrast, nearby communities such as Ellendale and LaMoure have slightly higher salaries but fewer nursing positions available, which underscores the inviting prospects thriving in Oakes.
Our healthcare infrastructure is built on the foundation of community health and wellness, with Oakes Community Hospital leading the charge, focusing primarily on general nursing specialties along with obstetrics and pediatrics. Recently, investments have been pouring into upgrading our facilities and expanding telehealth services as part of local healthcare initiatives to enhance public health accessibility. According to state projections, the population of Oakes is expected to grow by about 1% over the next decade, indicating a stable environment for nursing professionals. Additionally, notable public health programs aimed at promoting preventative care and wellness have emerged in recent years, driving further demand for nursing roles that address these initiatives. Living in Oakes offers an unmatched quality of life, with engaging cultural events, beautiful parks, and a strong sense of community. For current and prospective nursing professionals, this city is an inviting place to build a career while enjoying a balanced lifestyle. I encourage fellow nurses to explore the local job matches available in our area through NurseRecruiter—an essential tool for both job seekers and those looking to make notable hires in the nursing sector.
