Wausau, Wisconsin: A Thriving Hub for Nursing Careers Amidst Scenic Beauty and Community Engagement
Nestled in the heart of north-central Wisconsin, Wausau is a quaint city defined by its stunning natural landscapes and vibrant community spirit. With the majestic Rib Mountain State Park as a backdrop and the serene flow of the Wisconsin River snaking through the area, it’s a city that harmonizes tranquil living with a robust healthcare job market. Here in Wausau, the nursing profession thrives, providing opportunities for local nurses and attracting travel nurses seeking the charm of small-town life juxtaposed with fulfilling employment. According to recent data, nurses in our city can expect average salaries ranging from $64,000 to $72,000 annually, reflecting a competitive edge compared to the state’s average of approximately $67,000 and the national average of about $79,000. While we enjoy the small-town vibe, our proximity to larger cities like Green Bay and Madison further influences our market, offering a unique blend of peaceful living and career opportunities.
The nursing job market in Wausau is currently robust, with a steady demand for healthcare professionals projected to soar in the coming years. NurseRecruiter estimates that we'll require an additional 330 nurses over the next five years due to increases in population and the aging workforce. As of the latest counts, there are approximately 1,200 registered nurses currently employed in our city, with unemployment rates in the health sector remaining unusually low. For travel nursing, Wausau is carving out a niche with an expanding number of assignments—particularly during the winter months when outdoor enthusiasts flock to our ski resorts. The per diem nursing market is also notable, offering flexible employment options for those seeking work-life balance. Major healthcare facilities such as Aspirus Wausau Hospital and Marshfield Clinic’s Wausau Center are among the most prominent employers, alongside several community health clinics serving diverse patient populations. When comparing ourselves with nearby cities like Stevens Point or Rhinelander, it’s clear that while opportunities may be slightly more abundant in larger towns, Wausau's unique lifestyle and community integration present unmatched benefits.
Our healthcare infrastructure in Wausau continues to grow, bolstered by ongoing investments and expansions aimed at meeting the community's diverse health needs. Major facilities are expanding services in pediatrics, geriatrics, and emergency care, driving demand for specialized nursing positions. As our city’s population of approximately 39,000 maintains a growth rate of around 1% annually, our healthcare systems adapt to these developments proactively, illustrating the interconnectedness of our nursing workforce and community health outcomes. Public health initiatives, including vaccination drives and wellness programs, extend nurses' roles beyond traditional settings, further embedding them as essential pillars of our society. Our blend of outdoor recreation, community-centered living, and professional opportunities make Wausau an ideal choice for a nursing career. As we progress, I encourage both current and prospective nurses to sign up at NurseRecruiter, where you can explore local job matches tailored to your skills, and employers can find qualified candidates in our flourishing city.
