Exploring Milwaukie's Growing Nursing Job Market: Opportunities, Salaries, and Community Commitment Await
Nestled just six miles southeast of Portland, Milwaukie, Oregon, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, eclectic arts scene, and close-knit community. Here in Milwaukie, we take pride in our beautiful parks, including the serene North Clackamas Park and the picturesque Willamette River waterfront, where outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a stroll or a leisurely bike ride. The local nursing job market is as dynamic as our community, shaped by a strong healthcare infrastructure and the growing demands of our population. The average salary for nurses in our city hovers between $35.25 and $47.50 per hour—this translates to an annual income range of approximately $73,000 to $99,000. While this range is competitive, it is slightly below the Oregon state average of $40.55 per hour, or $84,400 annually, and the national average of $38.55 per hour, or $80,000 annually. However, what we lack in towering salary averages, we make up for in quality of life and community support.
As we analyze the nursing job market in Milwaukie, it’s clear that opportunities are burgeoning. According to projections, we can expect a demand for approximately 150 new nurses in the next five years, driven by a growing elderly population and expanding healthcare facilities. Currently, we estimate that around 1,850 registered nurses and licensed practical nurses work in our city, representing about 1.5% of the population. The demand for travel and per diem nursing is also evident, with the city seeing around 200 travel nursing positions annually and significant peaks during the summer months when both tourism and hospital admissions typically rise. With four major hospitals nearby, including Providence Milwaukie Hospital and Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center, as well as a variety of clinics and specialized care facilities, the local infrastructure is robust and well-positioned. Nearby cities like Beaverton, Gresham, and Happy Valley each present varied job opportunities; for instance, Gresham tends to offer a few more positions but generally sees lower salary ranges. This landscape presents a competitive but supportive environment for nurses, especially with the potential for travel jobs extending into the vibrant Portland scene.
Investments in healthcare infrastructure are ramping up, with new clinics and outpatient facilities under construction, indicating a commitment to meeting the healthcare needs of our growing population, which currently stands at about 24,600 and has seen steady growth. Milwaukie’s community is actively engaged in various public health initiatives such as immunization drives and chronic illness management programs that enhance our local nursing roles. Our city may not be the largest in the region, but we embody a small-town charm complemented by access to larger urban amenities, fostering a unique lifestyle that balances work and leisure. Whether you're a current nurse considering a move or a prospective one eyeing your next opportunity, here in Milwaukie, we invite you to explore the rewarding career options that lie ahead. For those interested, signing up with NurseRecruiter can connect you to local job matches that align with your skills and goals, while employers can utilize the platform to find and recruit talented local candidates. Let’s take the next step together in building a healthier Milwaukie community.
