Thriving Nursing Opportunities in Baraboo, Wisconsin: A Unique Blend of Competitive Salaries, Growing Demand, and Natural Beauty Await
Nestled between the stunning landscapes of the Baraboo Hills and the scenic Wisconsin Dells, Baraboo, Wisconsin, is a small city with a rich blend of natural beauty and rich history. Our city's nursing job market mirrors this vibrant environment, offering both stability and promise. Here in Baraboo, registered nurses can expect to earn an annual salary ranging from approximately $59,000 to $76,000, translating to an hourly wage between $28.37 and $36.54. This range positions us favorably compared to the state average of around $64,500 per year and the national median of approximately $77,600 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Baraboo is more than just a gateway to the Northwoods; it’s home to the world-famous Circus World Museum and the stunning Devil’s Lake State Park—places that contribute to a unique lifestyle here alongside a growing healthcare environment.
The demand for nurses in Baraboo reflects broader trends across Wisconsin, where we anticipate a significant need for healthcare professionals in the coming years. Estimates suggest we will need around 100 new nurses over the next three to five years to keep pace with our population growth and the aging workforce. Currently, Baraboo's nurse workforce is relatively small, housing an estimated 400 to 450 registered nurses. The market for travel nursing is on the rise, with peak seasons typically aligning with our summer tourism influx, offering positions that cater to the needs of our bustling community. Meanwhile, the per diem nursing market is thriving, providing flexible options for local nurses. Baraboo is not alone in this; surrounding cities such as Wisconsin Dells, Reedsburg, and Portage also feature competitive job markets with their own unique characteristics. With a couple of sizable healthcare employers, including St. Clare Hospital, Baraboo provides a supportive backdrop for both new and experienced nurses looking to build their careers.
As healthcare continues to evolve, Baraboo has seen recent investments aimed at expanding services and modernizing facilities, further enhancing our healthcare infrastructure. Our city hosts several clinics, specialty practices, and hospitals, which need nurses across various specialties, most notably in emergency, pediatrics, and geriatric care. The local population is approximately 12,500, with modest growth projected, reflecting the attractiveness of living in a close-knit community with easy access to nature and recreational activities. Public health initiatives, especially those focusing on childhood health and wellness, are paving the way for increasing nursing roles in education and community health. As a Baraboo resident and nursing professional, I can confidently say that our city, with its distinctive culture and job opportunities, is an ideal place for nurses to thrive. For those of you considering springboarding your career or seeking local job matches, I encourage you to sign up with NurseRecruiter—it's a platform designed for both job seekers and employers to connect efficiently.