Burien: A Thriving Nursing Job Market at the Heart of Washington's Healthcare Hub, with Competitive Salaries and Exceptional Quality of Life
Here in Burien, Washington, we pride ourselves on our unique blend of suburban tranquility and vibrant community spirit, all while being just a stone's throw from the bustling city of Seattle. Our nursing job market reflects this dynamic, as Burien has steadily evolved as a healthcare hub, making it an attractive place for both local and travel nurses. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the current mean annual salary for registered nurses in Washington state hovers around $88,500. In Burien, however, specific salary estimates range from $78,400 to $91,300, depending on experience and specialization. It’s worth noting that while the Seattle metro area often draws attention for its high pay rates, living in Burien and commuting to Seattle can offer a balance of competitive salaries combined with a more relaxed lifestyle, showcasing what makes our city a desirable choice for healthcare professionals.
The job market for nursing in Burien is robust, with the demand for qualified nurses expected to remain strong over the next several years. Estimates suggest that we will need around 150 new nursing professionals in the area by 2028, accounting for both growth and turnover. Currently, Burien’s nurse workforce is around 900, thanks to our two major hospitals and numerous clinics that make up our healthcare infrastructure. Noteworthy employers include Highline Medical Center and Masonic Care Network, both of which offer a variety of specialties that appeal to aspiring nurses. On the travel nursing front, Burien holds modest potential, with travel nursing jobs peaking during the summer months when temporary staffing needs surge in local facilities. Per diem nursing opportunities are similarly available, providing flexibility for existing nurses seeking additional work. When compared to nearby cities like Renton and Des Moines, Burien presents distinct advantages in lifestyle and community feel while retaining competitive salary ranges and job availability.
In Burien, our healthcare facilities cater to a broad spectrum of specialties, including pediatrics, geriatrics, and emergency medicine, ensuring that nurses can find their niche within our systems. Recent investments, including renovations to Highline Medical Center, signal a commitment to healthcare development that should spur job growth further. With a population of around 52,000, Burien is growing steadily; this growth translates into ongoing public health initiatives designed to improve community wellbeing—initiatives that create additional roles for nursing professionals. Additionally, our proximity to the natural beauty of Puget Sound and the area's recreational opportunities enhances our lifestyle, allowing healthcare professionals to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Here, in our vibrant community, we are proud to offer a supportive environment for both our current nurses and those interested in joining us, making Burien an excellent choice for nursing professionals. For those seeking opportunities within our blossoming job market, I highly encourage you to sign up for NurseRecruiter, where you can find local job matches tailored to your skills and specialties, while employers can seamlessly find local candidates to fill their nursing positions.