Ames, Iowa: An Emerging Hub for Nursing Careers with Competitive Salaries and a Thriving Community Health Landscape
Here in Ames, Iowa, our charming college town is not only defined by Iowa State University but also boasts a robust nursing job market that is both inviting and promising. The city sprawls with green spaces and lively community events, making it a wonderful place for nursing professionals to build a fulfilling career. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for registered nurses in Iowa hovers around $65,680, while in Ames, our estimated salary range falls between $62,000 and $68,000 annually, reflecting competitive pay localized in our vibrant healthcare scene. As someone who has navigated this landscape, I can assure you that, despite being a smaller city, we offer unique opportunities, especially when contrasted with nearby Des Moines, where salaries run higher at an average of $72,000 but come with a more competitive job market.
Analyzing the nursing job market in Ames reveals a healthy demand thanks to a mix of educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and ongoing community health initiatives. NurseRecruiter estimates that we currently employ around 900 nurses in our city, with projections indicating a need for approximately 150 new nursing positions over the next three to five years. Travel nursing is on the rise as well, particularly during the university's busy academic calendar, while per diem jobs make up a slight but growing segment of our employment landscape. Local facilities, such as Mary Greeley Medical Center and UnityPoint Health, serve as the backbone of our employment network, consistently seeking skilled nursing professionals. For nursing professionals considering a diverse range of job opportunities, neighboring cities like Boone and Nevada face fewer demands, yet may offer alternative prospects for those willing to commute.
Healthcare in Ames is steadily evolving, with continued investments in our infrastructure and a community devoted to health and wellness initiatives. Currently, we have a mix of hospitals, clinics, and specialized healthcare facilities that cater to various nursing roles, from pediatrics to geriatric care. As our population hovers around 66,000, projected growth rates indicate a steady influx of residents that will magnify both the demand for healthcare services and job opportunities. Amidst this development, our lifestyle blends university culture with quaint local charm—drawing in families and young professionals alike. Here in Ames, we pride ourselves on our commitment to community health, highlighted by programs that foster public well-being and advance nursing roles. As the ropes of community, healthcare, and career continue to intertwine, I invite both current and prospective nurses to consider signing up to NurseRecruiter for opportunities right here in Ames. It’s an exciting time to be part of our healthcare community, where employers also find it beneficial to connect with local candidates through NurseRecruiter's platform.
