Alva, Oklahoma: A Rising Hub for Nursing Professionals with Competitive Salaries and Community-Centric Opportunities
As a proud resident of Alva, Oklahoma, I've seen our community thrive, shaped by its rich history and robust healthcare framework. Alva may be a smaller town nestled in the heartland, but our nursing job market has been evolving, driven by a growing demand for health professionals in our local hospitals and clinics. As of late 2023, the average nursing salary in Alva sits around $30.90 per hour, translating to an annual salary of approximately $64,272. This compares favorably to the statewide average of $31.50 per hour and a national average of $35.00 per hour, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. While our salaries may not be top-tier compared to larger cities, the cost of living here allows for a comfortable lifestyle, complemented by the breathtaking landscapes of northwest Oklahoma and the welcoming nature of our tight-knit community.
Diving deeper into our nursing job market, it’s evident that we’re experiencing consistent growth. NurseRecruiter estimates that there are currently around 250 nurses employed in Alva, and over the next three to five years, we expect to see a need for an additional 50 nurses, as the healthcare demand rises alongside our population's growth and the gradual aging of our community. Interestingly, Alva also serves as a decent hub for travel nursing, particularly during peak seasons like summer and early fall, when surrounding facilities often require extra hands to cater to patient surges. There are approximately 20 travel nurse positions available at any given time in and around Alva. When contrasted with nearby Enid, which boasts larger hospital facilities, travel nursing roles tend to be more plentiful, but Alva's unique charm, coupled with a host of Per Diem nursing jobs—approximately 30—offers flexibility for nurses seeking variable hours. Major employers in our area include the Share Medical Center and several outpatient clinics, which provide a diverse range of opportunities for nursing professionals.
From a healthcare infrastructure perspective, Alva is fortunate to have a strong network of facilities that cater to various nursing specialties, including geriatrics, pediatrics, and critical care. Recent investments in healthcare technology and infrastructure have bolstered our facilities' capabilities, helping us to better serve our community. The population of Alva stands at just over 4,600 residents, and projections suggest modest growth in the coming years, reflecting our town's ongoing appeal. Public health initiatives, such as community health screening programs and outreach projects, actively engage nurses in addressing local health concerns. Here in Alva, we embody a lifestyle that reflects our values—a community centered around caring for one another. As a local nurse, I encourage my fellow professionals, whether new to the area or considering a move, to explore the opportunities available here. Don’t forget to check in with NurseRecruiter for job opportunities tailored to your expertise—local employers are eager to connect with skilled nursing candidates like you, ready to make a difference in our community!
