Lakewood's Thriving Nursing Job Market: Competitive Salaries, Growing Opportunities, and a Supportive Community for Healthcare Professionals in 2023
Here in Lakewood, Washington, I’ve witnessed firsthand the evolving landscape of the nursing job market. Nestled next to the serene shores of American Lake and just a hop away from the bustling city of Tacoma, our community is a mix of suburban charm and urban accessibility. As of 2023, the average hourly wage for nurses in our area ranges between $38 and $48, which translates to annual salaries falling between $79,000 and $100,000, depending on specialization and experience. In contrast, the national averages sit around $35.50 an hour, aggregating to about $73,000 annually, while the Washington state averages hover around $40 an hour or approximately $83,200. Lakewood’s proximity to high-demand healthcare facilities and an influx of military personnel, thanks to Joint Base Lewis-McChord, makes it a remarkable hub for nursing professionals.
The nursing job market in Lakewood is both robust and dynamic. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a consistent need for nursing professionals, with estimates indicating that we will require nearly 300 new nurses in the next five years to meet the healthcare demand surge. NurseRecruiter estimates indicate that approximately 1,700 nurses currently work in our community, which is around 7% of the nursing workforce in Pierce County. Notably, Lakewood has a growing trend in travel nursing and per diem nursing opportunities, buoyed by its strong healthcare infrastructure which features major employers such as St. Clare Hospital and CHI Franciscan Rehabilitation. Compared to nearby cities like Tacoma, which offers broader opportunities but at slightly lower pay due to its larger healthcare system, or Olympia, known for a similar market but with a lesser number of facilities, Lakewood holds its ground well. If you're considering relocating or seeking new opportunities, I encourage you to explore openings at NurseRecruiter for tailored job matches.
As we dive deeper into our healthcare infrastructure, it’s apparent that Lakewood serves as a nurturing ground for various nursing specialties, particularly in emergency care and rehabilitation. With a number of urgent care facilities, outpatient clinics, and home health agencies, our healthcare system is continually evolving. Recent investments in healthcare technology and expansion in local hospitals reflect a commitment to improving care standards and increasing job opportunities in dynamic areas. Lakewood’s population is around 60,000 residents, experiencing a steady growth rate projected at about 5% over the next decade, making it an attractive place for healthcare professionals looking to plant roots. Public health initiatives, especially those focusing on mental health and community wellness, are on the rise, creating diverse roles for nurses willing to engage in meaningful change. In our vibrant community, with its parks, local coffee shops, and a proximity to nature, nurses not only find ample job opportunities but a welcoming lifestyle, ideal for work-life balance. For those eager to explore career options, joining NurseRecruiter can connect you with jobs that suit both your expertise and aspirations. Employers here can also benefit by posting job vacancies on NurseRecruiter to find qualified local candidates ready to make a difference.
