Decherd: A Hidden Gem for Nursing Professionals Offering Competitive Salaries, Growing Opportunities, and a Rich Community Lifestyle
Nestled in the picturesque hills of middle Tennessee, Decherd is a charming small town that offers a unique blend of rural tranquility and access to modern healthcare opportunities, especially for nursing professionals like us. Decherd, known for its close-knit community and rich history, is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including the scenic appeal of Tims Ford Lake just a short drive away. Here in Decherd, the nursing job market presents competitive salary ranges driven by the ever-increasing demand for healthcare services. Based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurses in Tennessee earn a mean annual salary of approximately $64,580, translating to about $31.06 per hour, while nationally, the numbers sit at around $80,010 per year, or $38.46 hourly. In Decherd, we can estimate salaries to range from $55,000 to $70,000 annually, which is an attractive proposition when compared to larger urban centers, especially given the lower cost of living.
The healthcare job market here is robust, with a notable growth trend spurred on by both an aging population and the ongoing expansion of healthcare facilities. As the local population of approximately 2,600 continues to grow, so does the demand for nurses; projections indicate that Decherd will need around 40-50 new nurses over the next five years to meet healthcare needs. Currently, there are about 150 registered nurses employed in the city. While Decherd's travel nursing market isn't particularly large, we see a seasonal uptick in demand around summer when tourists flock to nearby attractions. Simultaneously, per diem nursing opportunities have been on the rise, offering flexibility for those who prefer to work on an as-needed basis. The healthcare landscape boasts several major employers, including the Southern Tennessee Regional Health System, providing ample job opportunities for both full-time and part-time nursing roles. In comparison, nearby cities like Winchester and Tullahoma offer similar job markets but may provide slightly higher salaries due to their larger healthcare infrastructures, such as more extensive hospitals.
The healthcare infrastructure of Decherd is steadily evolving, with a few notable facilities including clinics, outpatient services, and urgent care centers that cater to our community's needs. Recent investments have emerged to improve healthcare services, with Southern Tennessee Regional Health System announcing expansions that will significantly enhance patient care capabilities. Beyond careers in nursing, the lifestyle here is something to cherish—whether it’s enjoying a sunny day at the local parks or participating in community festivals that highlight our heritage. The population shows a steady growth rate, which is promising for future job prospects. Public health initiatives, like vaccination drives and health fairs, are worthwhile programs in which nurses play a key role, further solidifying our importance in community well-being. Decherd may be small, but we offer a tapestry of experiences for nursing professionals, making it a wonderful place to build your career and lifestyle. I encourage my fellow nurses, whether current residents or those considering a move, to explore the opportunities available on NurseRecruiter, where you can find local job matches as well as post available positions to connect with our talented nursing community.
