Bartlesville, Oklahoma: A Unique and Growing Nursing Job Market Offering Competitive Salaries and Vibrant Community Living
Here in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, our small yet vibrant community infuses a unique character into the nursing job market. With a population of just over 36,000, we enjoy a close-knit atmosphere complemented by stunning landmarks like the Phillips Petroleum Company's headquarters and the Price Tower, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Nurses in Bartlesville can expect to earn between $63,000 to $75,000 annually, with reported hourly salaries ranging from $30 to $36. This sits competitively when you compare it to state-level averages in Oklahoma ($60,000 annually or about $28.85 hourly) and the national average, which sits around $80,000 per year ($38.46 hourly). While we may not have the hustle and bustle of larger cities, our community's charm and growth potential provide an appealing environment for nursing professionals seeking a balance between career fulfillment and quality living.
The nursing job market here is evolving, with an estimated demand for approximately 100 new nurses over the next five years. Given our city's size and the percentage of nurses based on state data—around 500 nurses currently working in Bartlesville—we are set for a steady growth trajectory. Notably, while travel nursing opportunities may not peak here as they do in larger metropolitan areas, there is a call for per diem nursing positions, particularly in nearby rural healthcare facilities that rely on flexible staffing. Major employers include the Coffeyville Regional Medical Center, Jane Phillips Medical Center, and numerous clinics populating our city. Compared to our nearby neighbors like Tulsa, which typically offers higher salaries and more job opportunities, Bartlesville represents a welcome alternative with lower living costs and less competition for nursing jobs.
Our healthcare infrastructure is robust, with extensive services across various specializations including pediatrics, geriatrics, and emergency care. Recently, there have been discussions about expanding the local hospital to include a new surgical wing, indicating a commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure in the area. Our community not only values healthcare but actively embraces it, with local health initiatives that engage nurses in preventative care and wellness programs. Bartlesville is experiencing slight population growth, projected to reach around 37,500 in the coming years, which should further bolster the demand for nursing professionals in our area. Ultimately, for those of us already here, and for nurses considering a move, Bartlesville embodies a harmonious blend of career prospects and warm community spirit. I encourage my fellow nursing professionals to explore local job opportunities on NurseRecruiter, and for employers, to utilize this platform to connect with our dedicated nursing talent.