Exploring Lakewood's Thriving Nursing Job Market: Competitive Salaries, Robust Growth, and a Vibrant Community Await Healthcare Professionals
Living here in Lakewood, Colorado, I’m proud to call this vibrant city home, a place where the majestic Rocky Mountains meet our blossoming communities. The nursing job market here reflects the city’s growth, diversity, and wellness-oriented lifestyle, with a community that values healthcare greatly as we strive to provide our neighbors with quality care. The average annual salary for nurses in Lakewood stands between $70,000 and $85,000, situating it comfortably within national norms, which hover around $77,600, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Comparatively, the broader Colorado statutes offer a range of $69,000 to $86,000, showcasing Lakewood's competitive positioning in an ever-evolving state market. Not only does Lakewood offer proximity to Denver’s bustling healthcare scene, with access to major institutions like the University of Colorado Hospital, but it also fosters a rich cultural vibe supported by parks and local events that make living and working here truly enjoyable.
The nursing job market in Lakewood is robust, with substantial growth projected for the next several years. NurseRecruiter estimates that we will need approximately 800 new nurses in the area by 2025, given our population increase and the aging workforce. Currently, about 4,000 nurses are employed in the city, but the demand for travel nurses is rapidly increasing, particularly as we approach the winter months when hospitals may see higher volumes due to seasonal illnesses. The per diem nursing market also shows promise, offering flexible opportunities across the many clinics and healthcare facilities dotted throughout our city. There are around 12 major hospitals and numerous outpatient clinics that consistently recruit nursing staff, making this a hotspot for nursing professionals. Compared to our neighboring cities like Golden and Littleton, which both average salaries closer to $68,000 to $82,000, Lakewood presents a slightly better financial outlook and thereby attracts a mix of both local and traveling nurses looking for stability and adventure.
With a dense network of healthcare facilities, including specialized centers for oncology, pediatrics, and geriatric care, our city is committed to meeting diverse health needs while also embracing upcoming investments aimed at expanding these capabilities. With a friendly populace nearing 157,000 residents, Lakewood continues to grow, with public health initiatives focused on preventive care and accessible health services. The rich cultural opportunities, from the nearby Red Rocks Amphitheater to our community parks, enhance the quality of life alongside our profession. For those considering nursing in Lakewood or simply exploring new opportunities, I warmly invite you to sign up on NurseRecruiter for a glimpse into the thriving job market. Likewise, employers should tap into NurseRecruiter to connect with the skilled local talent ready to help build a healthier community. Here in Lakewood, we embrace the essence of healthcare, community, and the beautiful Colorado lifestyle.