Thriving Nursing Opportunities and Community-Centric Living Await in Coos Bay, Oregon's Unique Coastal Landscape
Here in Coos Bay, Oregon, nestled along the stunning Southern Oregon Coast, our nursing landscape is as vibrant as the coastal sunsets we cherish. The job market for nursing here is dynamic, with registered nurses earning between $33.00 and $41.00 per hour, which translates to an annual salary range of approximately $68,640 to $85,280, as per local estimates. This is slightly lower compared to the state average of around $38.00 per hour ($79,000 annually) and the national average of $40.25 per hour ($83,706 annually), but the charm of living on the coast adds a unique allure to these figures. Coos Bay, with its picturesque views and eclectic community vibe, makes nursing not just a profession, but a way to enrich our lives while serving our fellow community members. Unlike nearby towns such as North Bend or Reedsport, which offer different lifestyles and slightly different salary combinations, Coos Bay stands out with its distinct culture, local cuisines, and access to outdoor opportunities.
Looking deeper into our job market, we are projected to need approximately 55 new nurses over the next five years to meet the growing healthcare demands fueled by an aging population and advances in medical technology. Currently, NurseRecruiter estimates that there are about 45 full-time nurses employed within our small city, highlighting job availability for both newly minted RNs and seasoned professionals. Regarding travel nursing, Coos Bay has seen moderate interest, with about 20 active travel nursing jobs available at any given time, peaking during the summer months when healthcare facilities expand services for both locals and tourists. Per diem opportunities are also burgeoning, with around 60 positions available to those seeking flexible work hours. Contrasting our market with our neighboring cities, such as Grants Pass and Medford, we can note that while they experience a larger nursing job market, their cost of living is higher, thus offering a different economic environment for nurses.
Our healthcare infrastructure is robust for a town of our size, with two primary hospitals – Bay Area Hospital and North Bend Medical Center – alongside numerous clinics and specialized care facilities focused on outpatient services, pediatrics, and geriatrics. Recent investments, particularly the expansion of Bay Area Hospital’s emergency department, are indicative of a growing commitment to healthcare in the region. With a population of roughly 16,000 and slow, steady growth, Coos Bay supports a strong sense of community where nursing roles are both respected and vital. Initiatives like the local public health campaign aimed at tackling substance use disorders emphasize the critical impact nursing professionals can have in transformative health movements. Our coastal lifestyle, characterized by a strong sense of community, outdoor recreation, and opportunities for professional growth, weaves beautifully into the fabric of what makes nursing here so rewarding. For current and prospective nursing professionals looking for opportunities, don’t forget to sign up with NurseRecruiter to explore local job matches and new possibilities within our beautiful coastal city. Employers can also utilize NurseRecruiter to find local talent suited to the needs of our healthcare community.
