Bend, Oregon: A Thriving Nursing Career Destination Amidst Scenic Beauty and Growing Demand
Nestled between the Cascade Mountains and the high desert, Bend, Oregon, is not only a haven for outdoor enthusiasts but also a burgeoning hub for healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, in recent years. The scenic beauty of the Deschutes River and the breathtaking views from Pilot Butte set a picturesque backdrop for our community. As a local nurse, I’ve seen first-hand how the nursing market in Bend has evolved, catering to the growing population that reached nearly 100,000 in 2023. Pay scales for nurses here range between $30.78 and $41.88 per hour, translating to an annual salary average of approximately $67,200 to $87,100, according to the latest data. This is relatively competitive compared to the state mean of around $41.09 per hour or $85,594 annually, and the national averages of $37.33 per hour and $77,600 annually. With a culture that embraces health and wellness, Bend’s unique appeal offers nurses a thriving workplace amidst beautiful surroundings, making our city an attractive option compared to neighboring cities like Redmond and Prineville, where salaries and job availability may not reflect the same growth trends.
Diving deeper into the job market, Bend is experiencing a significant nursing demand, with projections estimating that we’ll need about 300 new nurses in the next three to five years due to retirements and the increasing population. Currently, there are about 1,500 nurses employed citywide, aligning with a robust healthcare infrastructure that includes notable employers like St. Charles Health System—our region's largest hospital—as well as a variety of clinics and specialty practices. The travel nursing sector here is gaining traction, especially during peak tourist seasons from late spring to early fall, drawing in professionals eager to enjoy our stunning outdoor lifestyle while working. Per diem roles are also on the rise, allowing nurses more flexible scheduling options. Nearby cities such as Redmond and sisters have their unique offerings, but they tend to have a tighter job market with lesser salary ranges, making Bend the more favorable choice for those looking to advance their nursing careers while enjoying a vibrant community. For nurses considering the next step in their career path, communities outside our city provide interesting opportunities but lack the dynamic lifestyle and surroundings we cherish in Bend.
As we look toward the future, Bend's healthcare facilities and the myriad of specialties they support are on a growth trajectory reflecting our city’s commitment to comprehensive health services. The recent investments in healthcare infrastructure, such as the expansion of St. Charles Medical Center and several new urgent care facilities, anticipate catering to our community's needs while creating more nursing roles. Our local lifestyle marries outdoor adventure with community engagement, offering festivals, farmers’ markets, and events that highlight our connection to nature and one another. Bend’s population continues to grow, expected to reach around 115,000 by 2030, adding more opportunities to our nursing landscape. Public health initiatives that emphasize health equity and preventive care are also burgeoning, paving the way for nurses to play essential roles in shaping community well-being. Here in Bend, we are fortunate to stand at the crossroads of a thriving job market and an enriching lifestyle, making now an opportune time for nurses to carve out their paths in our city. I encourage fellow nursing professionals to explore job matches at NurseRecruiter, as it provides an excellent platform for connecting with local opportunities. Employers can utilize NurseRecruiter not only to find qualified candidates but to build the strong nursing workforce that our growing community needs.
