Thriving Nursing Job Market in Cody, Wyoming: Competitive Salaries, Growing Demand, and a Vibrant Community Await Healthcare Professionals at the Gateway to Yellowstone
Here in Cody, Wyoming, nestled at the gateway to Yellowstone National Park, the landscape is as vibrant as our nursing job market. Known for its stunning mountain vistas and a rich cowboy heritage, Cody offers a unique blend of adventure and community spirit. The average salary for nurses in our city ranges between $31.50 to $37.00 an hour, translating to about $65,000 to $77,000 annually based on local data. This is quite competitive when compared to state figures, where registered nurses earn an average hourly wage of approximately $33.20, or $69,000 a year, making us a bit more affordable than the national average of around $39.15 per hour or $81,000 annually. As a resident, I appreciate our tight-knit community and relaxed lifestyle, which, coupled with the strong demand for nursing roles, creates a welcoming environment for fellow nursing professionals.
The nursing job market here in Cody is thriving, with a robust demand driven especially by our aging population. NurseRecruiter estimates that we will need about 60 new nurses over the next five years, accounting for increased healthcare needs and workforce retirements. Currently, there are approximately 350 registered nurses employed in the area, ensuring quality care at our local healthcare facilities like Cody Regional Health, which remains the largest employer for nursing professionals. While we are not typically known as a travel nursing hotspot, the scenic beauty of our surroundings can attract temporary professionals during peak tourist seasons, especially around the summer months. In comparison, larger cities nearby, such as Billings, Montana, or Casper, Wyoming, see more travel nursing opportunities and generally higher pay scales. It’s important to look at these regional job markets so local nurses can capitalize on advantageous opportunities. Per diem nursing options are also available here, often linked to seasonal demand and facility needs, making it a viable way to supplement income or provide flexible working hours.
Cody's healthcare infrastructure includes several key facilities that contribute to a dynamic nursing environment. In total, there are around five major health clinics and the regional hospital, with departments particularly keen on hiring skilled nurses in emergency care and pediatrics. Recent investments are being funneled into telemedicine and expanded outpatient services, creating a forward-thinking approach to healthcare that aims to enhance accessibility and patient outcomes. Our population is around 9,800, which has been growing steadily at a rate of about 1.5% per year, stressing the increasing need for healthcare professionals. Notable public health initiatives, like wellness campaigns and vaccination drives, further emphasize the crucial roles nurses play in our community. Here in Cody, we celebrate a lifestyle filled with outdoor recreation, community events, and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect home for nursing professionals. If you're looking for job opportunities in this vibrant community, I encourage you to sign up to NurseRecruiter to find local job matches, and for employers, consider posting your openings on the same platform to connect with dedicated candidates ready to contribute to our exceptional healthcare landscape.