Kingsport, Tennessee: A Thriving Nursing Job Market with Competitive Salaries and Community Charm in the Heart of the Appalachian Mountains
Here in Kingsport, Tennessee, we boast a vibrant and growing nursing job market that reflects the charm and warmth of our community. This city, nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, is known for its scenic beauty and a strong sense of togetherness. As a local, I can tell you that Kingsport not only provides a rich array of outdoor activities and cultural attractions but also offers a competitive nursing salary range that feels tailored for both seasoned professionals and newcomers alike. According to data sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for nurses in Tennessee is approximately $65,000, with a mean hourly wage around $31.31. For Kingsport specifically, we can reasonably estimate that our nurses earn between $60,000 and $68,000 annually, which places us slightly above the national average but still very much accessible compared to other cities in the Appalachian region.
Diving deeper into the job market, Kingsport is experiencing a robust demand for nursing professionals, driven by a growing elderly population and the need for healthcare services. Currently, we have around 1,500 registered nurses serving in Kingsport, which represents about 1.5% of the city’s population of approximately 53,000 residents. Looking ahead, NurseRecruiter estimates we’ll need an additional 250 to 350 nurses over the next 3 to 5 years, which indicates a substantial growth trend. Additionally, while travel nursing opportunities are a bit modest here, they do exist, particularly during peak flu seasons and summer months, when many facilities see an influx of patients. Per diem nursing positions, meanwhile, seem to flourish, offering flexibility for those looking for casual work. In comparison to nearby cities such as Johnson City and Bristol, Kingsport may offer less in terms of travel nursing but makes up for it with a steady stream of stable employment options and a lower cost of living.
As we look at the infrastructure, Kingsport has several key healthcare facilities, including Wellmont Health System and Holston Valley Medical Center, which actively recruit nurses across a range of specialties. Over recent years, both local healthcare providers and city officials have been making significant investments toward improving healthcare infrastructure, aimed at enhancing patient services and allowing nurses to work in modern, state-of-the-art facilities. This commitment to growth signifies a promising trajectory for current and prospective nursing professionals. Furthermore, our community is tightly knit, filled with local festivals, charming downtown shops, and picturesque parks, making it a welcoming home for nurses and their families. Limited public health initiatives, such as community health programs and nursing outreach efforts, add an exciting layer to our nursing careers. Overall, whether you're a seasoned nurse or just starting out, the Kingsport nursing job market presents a unique blend of opportunity, community, and culture that keeps me proud to call this place home. I encourage you to check out NurseRecruiter to see job matches tailored for you, and remember, employers too can leverage this platform to connect with local nursing talent.
