Astoria, Oregon: A Booming Nursing Job Market in a Historic Coastal Community with Competitive Salaries and Expanding Opportunities
Here in Astoria, Oregon, we reside in a city steeped in history, nestled between the confluence of the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean. Our charming coastal town, known for its Victorian architecture and thriving arts scene, is also home to a robust nursing job market that is particularly attractive to local professionals and prospective travel nurses alike. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average nurse salary in Oregon is roughly $42.93 per hour, translating to around $89,300 annually. Here in Astoria, we can expect mean salaries to range from $37.00 to $45.00 per hour, giving us a unique advantage in terms of living in a picturesque environment while still earning competitive wages. As we sometimes hear, “in Astoria, every day feels like a fresh breeze,” and this holds true not only for our daily lives but also for the growth potential in nursing roles, which significantly contrasts with larger urban areas like Portland, where the competitive job market drives salaries slightly higher but compromises on the local lifestyle.
Analyzing the job market deeper, estimates suggest that we will need an additional 100 to 120 nurses here in Astoria over the next three to five years, considering our population of approximately 10,000 residents and the increasing demand for healthcare services as our community grows. Currently, we have about 350 nurses employed in various facilities, which includes our two major hospitals: Columbia Memorial Hospital, a critical access facility, and the various clinics and outpatient services sprouting throughout the region. Interestingly, our city sees a growing trend in travel nursing as well, particularly during the summer tourist season when the influx of visitors peaks. Compared to nearby communities like Seaside and Warrenton, where both travel nursing and per diem roles are equally competitive, Astoria stands out due to our more stable year-round demand. In these cities, salaries might hover around the $36.00 to $43.50 per hour range, but the overall community and rural charm of Astoria set us apart, giving us that all-important quality of life advantage.
When considering our healthcare infrastructure, Astoria has made significant strides in recent years with the expansion of Columbia Memorial Hospital's services, including specialized care for geriatrics and pediatrics. Local initiatives such as wellness programs and preventative care campaigns showcase our commitment to public health, providing unique opportunities for nurses to engage in meaningful work that directly impacts our community. Our city’s vibrant lifestyle, defined by stunning coastal views, diverse recreational activities, and a strong sense of community provides an enriching backdrop for us as healthcare professionals. The current population is projected to grow by about 5% over the next decade, which is likely to further increase both the demand for nursing professionals and the capacity of our beloved Astoria to accommodate them. For those who are already established here or considering relocating, I encourage you to explore job options tailored especially for you on NurseRecruiter. Similarly, employers, you can connect with local nursing candidates through the same channel, ensuring that our city continues to thrive with top-notch nursing talent ready to serve our beloved community.
