Thriving Nursing Job Market in West Des Moines: Explore Opportunities Amidst Community Growth and Competitive Salaries
Here in West Des Moines, Iowa, we’re not only known for our beautiful parks and vibrant community events but also for a robust nursing job market that has continued to flourish, particularly in recent years. As a local resident and nursing professional, I can confirm that opportunities abound, ranging from traditional roles in hospitals to exciting travel and per diem positions. The average hourly wage for nurses in our area typically falls between $29.50 and $36.50, while annual salaries hover around $61,000 to $76,000, significantly reflecting the broader state average of $30.00 per hour and $62,400 annually, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The cost of living here is manageable, making those salaries particularly appealing when compared to larger metropolitan areas, while our community's emphasis on healthcare, especially with facilities like MercyOne, speaks to our unique commitment to health and wellness in the region.
In terms of market dynamics, West Des Moines currently employs approximately 1,100 nurses, with the demand expected to rise sharply as our population continues to grow, projected to reach over 70,000 by 2030. NurseRecruiter estimates that we will need an additional 150 to 250 nurses over the next 5 years to meet the increasing healthcare needs of our ever-expanding community. Our thriving healthcare landscape includes several major employers, such as UnityPoint Health and Broadlawns Medical Center, ensuring plenty of opportunities for nurses specialized in various fields, including pediatrics and geriatrics. Neighboring cities like Des Moines offer a similar landscape, but with slightly higher average salaries and more travel nursing assignments available. Meanwhile, cities like Ankeny and Clive may not boast as many facilities, but they provide quality of life advantages that attract nurses seeking a better work-life balance compared to the more hustle-and-bustle lifestyle of Des Moines proper.
West Des Moines is experiencing considerable investment in its healthcare infrastructure, with new clinics and facilities springing up to keep pace with the growing population, which increases the demand for nursing specialties across various fields. The city benefits from a strong sense of community, where neighbors feel like family, and our local events—like the annual West Des Moines Art Festival—bring everyone together, creating a supportive environment for those who choose to live and work here. Proactive public health initiatives also play a key role in shaping our nursing landscape. As community health programs promote wellness and preventive care, they highlight nursing’s integral role in improving public health outcomes. Whether you’re a seasoned nurse, considering relocating, or a travel nurse looking for your next assignment, I wholeheartedly invite you to explore the possibilities here in West Des Moines. Don’t forget to check out NurseRecruiter to discover tailored job opportunities that align with your skills and passion for caring for others, while local employers can utilize NurseRecruiter to find the perfect candidates like us, right in the heart of our wonderful city.
