20 Best Places to Work & Live as a Registered Nurse in 2024 | Research.com
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20 Best Places to Work & Live as a Registered Nurse in 2024

Imed Bouchrika, Phd

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Are you a registered nurse (RN) searching for the ideal place to live and work? Achieving the perfect balance between career opportunities, quality of life, and financial stability is essential today. This article provides insights into job availability in the top 20 best places for RNs to work and live. Whether you prefer vibrant urban hubs or peaceful rural environments, our experts offer valuable information to assist you in making informed decisions about your nursing career and lifestyle.

Key things you should know about living and working as a nurse

  • Research indicates that the employment of RNs is projected to increase by 6% from 2022 to 2032, creating an estimated 193,100 new RN jobs by 2032. 
  • California, with 325,620 RNs employed, maintains the highest employment level for registered nurses, with a projected workforce of 373,200 by 2028.
  • Factors such as climate, culture, safety, recreation, education, healthcare, and transportation significantly impact the quality of life for registered nurses.
  • Pursuing advanced certifications or post-graduate degrees can unlock opportunities for specialized roles, such as nurse practitioner or other advanced practice positions.
  • Engaging in volunteering, shaping public health policy, and advocating for public wellness are vital roles for registered nurses. 
  • Approximately 91% of registered nurses had access to retirement benefits in 2023.

Table of Contents 

  1. 20 Best Places to Work and Live as a Registered Nurse in the U.S.
  2. Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Place to Live as a Registered Nurse
  3. What resources are available for registered nurses transitioning into different nursing specialties? 
  4. How can registered nurses get involved in community health initiatives and outreach programs?
  5. What role do registered nurses play in advocating for public health and wellness in their communities?
  6. How do healthcare organizations address issues of discrimination and bias in the workplace?
  7. What options do registered nurses have for retirement planning and savings?
  8. Addressing the Supply and Demand in Nursing Education
  9. Nursing Employment Statistics
  10. Other things you should know about living and working as a nurse

20 Best Places to Work and Live as a Registered Nurse in the U.S.

Our research team ranked these places based on our financial viability score, which considers several variables and their respective weights:

  • Average RN salary in the area - 30%
  • Difference between the average RN salary in the area and the national average - 5%
  • Monthly salary minus the cost of living and taxes - 55% 
  • Difference between the average annual RN salary in the area and the average salary in the area - 10% 

Additionally, we considered:

  • Weighted quality of life ratings from The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) - 60% 
  • User-generated ratings from Livingcost.org - 40% 

In our rankings, we also considered the location quotient of each place, sourced from the 2022 Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The location quotient is calculated by dividing the local concentration of an industry in a specific area by the national concentration of that industry, serving as an indicator of job opportunities in the area. A rating above 1.0 in the raw BLS data indicates more opportunities.

Note that the weights assigned to each variable are subjective and may vary depending on individual preferences. For this ranking, we assigned weights of 45% to the financial rating, 35% to job opportunities (location quotient), and 20% to the quality of life rating.

1. Iowa City, Iowa

Iowa City features various healthcare settings like the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, where nurses can deliver high-quality, cost-effective care and leadership. Additionally, the city offers a vibrant cultural and recreational scene, hosting festivals, museums, parks, and trails. For those seeking a rewarding and fulfilling career as a registered nurse, Iowa City could be the perfect choice.

  • Ranking score: 92.72
  • Population: 75,558
  • Nearby cities: Cedar Rapids, IA (23 miles away), Davenport, IA (56 miles away), and Rock Island, IL (60 miles away)
  • Location quotient: 2.26
  • RNs employed: 4,250 
  • Employment per 1,000 jobs: 22.40 
  • Average RN Salary: $74,230
  • Average RN Salary Tax Rate (2024): 22%
  • Cost of living: $1,635
  • Quality of life rating: 55.37 

2. Morgantown, West Virginia

Home to the West Virginia University Hospital, Morgantown provides a range of specialties and opportunities for career advancement. The city also has a vibrant cultural scene and stunning natural surroundings. Whether you are into outdoor activities, arts and entertainment, or education and research, Morgantown offers something for everyone, making it an excellent place to work as a nurse. Additionally, for those seeking to work while studying nursing, West Virginia is a good option. The state offers health-related degree programs like medical billing and coding bachelor’s degree offerings, which can support you throughout your studies.

  • Ranking score: 90.98
  • Population: 30,385
  • Nearby cities: Pittsburgh, PA (56 miles away), Akron, OH (130 miles away), and Cleveland, OH (159 miles away)
  • Location quotient: 2.90
  • RNs employed: 3,890
  • Employment per 1,000 jobs: 31.13
  • Average RN Salary: $70,060
  • Average RN Salary Tax Rate (2024): 22% 
  • Cost of living: $1,566
  • Quality of life rating: 46.84

3. Anchorage, Alaska

Anchorage, Alaska stands out as one of the prime locations for nurses to work. The city combines urban conveniences with rural charm, creating an optimal environment for RNs aiming to progress in their careers while enjoying life. There are many employment opportunities in various settings like hospitals, clinics, schools, and home health care. Notable establishments include the Alaska Heart Institute and the Prestige Care & Rehabilitation Center of Anchorage.

  • Ranking score: 90.31
  • Population: 283,424
  • Nearby cities: Meadow Lakes, AK (30 miles away), Wasilla, AK (29 miles away), and Wasilla, AK (29 miles away)
  • Location quotient: 1.31
  • RNs employed: 4,550
  • Employment per 1,000 jobs: 21.98
  • Average RN Salary: $103,150
  • Average RN Salary Tax Rate (2024): 22% 
  • Cost of living: $2,329
  • Quality of life rating: 83 

4. Springfield, Illinois

Springfield, Illinois is an ideal work destination for registered nurses. The city has a range of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes, where fulfilling and challenging roles await.

  • Ranking score: 85.46
  • Population: 112,282
  • Nearby cities: Saint Louis, MO (85 miles away), Chicago, IL (180 miles away), and Indianapolis, IN (185 miles away)
  • Location quotient: 1.76
  • RNs employed: 3,720
  • Employment per 1,000 jobs: 21.99
  • Average RN Salary: $78,630
  • Average RN Salary Tax Rate (2024): 22% 
  • Cost of living: $2,280
  • Quality of life rating: 65 

5. Fort Wayne, Indiana

Fort Wayne, Indiana, offers a diverse array of healthcare facilities, including Lutheran Life Villages and Lutheran Hospital of Indiana. Additionally, it provides numerous cultural and recreational pursuits, from museums and parks to festivals and sports activities. For nurses in search of a rewarding and fulfilling career, Fort Wayne, Indiana, could be a good destination.

  • Ranking score: 85.03
  • Population:  271,493
  • Nearby cities: New Haven, IN (7 miles away), Auburn, IN (20 miles away), and Decatur, IN (22 miles away)
  • Location quotient: 1.35
  • RNs employed: 6,100
  • Employment per 1,000 jobs: 21.80 
  • Average RN Salary: $73,240
  • Average RN Salary Tax Rate (2024): 22% 
  • Cost of living: $1,951
  • Quality of life rating: 79

6. Ann Arbor, Michigan

Ann Arbor, Michigan, has a vibrant academic and cultural environment. The city is home to the University of Michigan, a global leader in research and education. Nurses in Ann Arbor have various employment options, including the University of Michigan Health System. Here, you can collaborate with a world-class healthcare team. Additionally, the area hosts several other healthcare facilities, such as Michigan Medicine, ProMedica Senior Care, and Hospice of Michigan.

  • Ranking score: 84.24
  • Population: 116,125
  • Nearby cities: Detroit, MI (36 miles away), Windsor, Canada (36 miles away), and Toledo, OH (45 miles away)
  • Location quotient: 2.37
  • RNs employed: 10,400
  • Employment per 1,000 jobs: 23.89
  • Average RN Salary: $86,410
  • Average RN Salary Tax Rate (2024): 22% 
  • Cost of living: $1,903
  • Quality of life rating: 72 

7. Charleston, West Virginia

Charleston offers a diverse range of cultural and recreational pursuits, including museums, parks, festivals, and sports activities. For nurses seeking employment in Charleston, West Virginia, opportunities abound across various healthcare settings. Notable establishments include the West Virginia Center for Nursing, and Special Touch Nursing Service, as well as hospitals, nursing homes, ambulatory care centers, community health centers, and medical offices.

  • Ranking score: 82.08
  • Population: 45,616
  • Nearby cities: Huntington, WV (50 miles away), Beckley, WV(51 miles away), and Ashland, KY (66 miles away)
  • Location quotient: 1.77
  • RNs employed: 3,690
  • Employment per 1,000 jobs: 31.13
  • Average RN Salary: $70,960
  • Average RN Salary Tax Rate (2024): 22% 
  • Cost of living: $1,566
  • Quality of life rating: 60 

8. Springfield, Missouri

Springfield, Missouri is an attractive location for registered nurses seeking employment opportunities and a high quality of life. Springfield offers a vibrant cultural scene and abundant outdoor activities. 

  • Ranking score: 79.70
  • Population: 170,970
  • Nearby cities: Republic, MO (10.6 miles away), Nixa, MO (12.7 miles away), and Ozark, MO (14.9 miles away)
  • Location quotient: 1.2
  • RNs employed: 6,470
  • Employment per 1,000 jobs: 24.98
  • Average RN Salary: $63,500
  • Average RN Salary Tax Rate (2024): 22% 
  • Cost of living: $1,972
  • Quality of life rating: 79 

9. Florence, South Carolina

Florence offers a low cost of living, complemented by a mild climate and an array of cultural and recreational activities. Additionally, the city hosts several hospitals and healthcare facilities. Notable establishments include the Regency Hospital Company, the Carolinas Hospital System, and McLeod Health. Known for its friendly and diverse community, Florence warmly welcomes newcomers and highly regards healthcare professionals.

  • Ranking score: 79.20
  • Population: 40,210
  • Nearby cities: Darlington, SC (11.2 miles away), Hartsville, SC (20.4 miles away), and Marion, SC (23.1 miles away)
  • Location quotient: 1.6
  • RNs employed: 2,870
  • Employment per 1,000 jobs: 20.46
  • Average RN Salary: $70,050
  • Average RN Salary Tax Rate (2024): 22% 
  • Cost of living: $2,196
  • Quality of life rating: 59

10. Rochester, Minnesota

Rochester, Minnesota, is home to the Mayo Clinic, which offers abundant career prospects and the chance to learn from the leaders in the field. Rochester also offers numerous amenities catering to outdoor enthusiasts, arts fans, and those seeking entertainment, shopping, and dining experiences.

  • Ranking score: 78.16
  • Population: 122,191
  • Nearby cities:  Saint Paul, MN (72 miles away), Minneapolis, MN (77 miles away), and Madison, WI (166 miles away)
  • Location quotient: 2.77
  • RNs employed: 6,760
  • Employment per 1,000 jobs: 22.57
  • Average RN Salary: $90,060
  • Average RN Salary Tax Rate (2024): 22%  
  • Cost of living: $2,213
  • Quality of life rating: 66 

11. Charlottesville, Virginia

Charlottesville presents abundant opportunities for nurses to advance their careers and expertise across diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools, and home health agencies. The place has a rich history, cultural heritage, and a diverse community. 

  • Ranking score: 76.84
  • Population: 44,281
  • Nearby cities: Waynesboro, VA (25 miles away), Harrisonburg, VA (50 miles away), and Lynchburg, VA (70 miles away)  
  • Location quotient: 1.57
  • RNs employed: 3,570
  • Employment per 1,000 jobs: 17.95
  • Average RN Salary: $80,890
  • Average RN Salary Tax Rate (2024): 22% 
  • Cost of living: $2,326
  • Quality of life rating: 63 

12. Columbia, Missouri

Columbia, Missouri, is a vibrant city with a rich cultural tapestry. Moreover, Columbia hosts a strong healthcare system, featuring multiple hospitals and clinics that provide various opportunities for registered nurses. Notable establishments include the University of Missouri Health Care and the Boone Hospital Center.

  • Ranking score: 76.79
  • Population: 130,624
  • Nearby cities: Jefferson City, MO (31 miles away), Moberly, MO (35 miles away), and Mexico, MO (38 miles away)
  • Location quotient: 1.74
  • RNs employed: 3,440
  • Employment per 1,000 jobs: 24.98
  • Average RN Salary: $70,710
  • Average RN Salary Tax Rate (2024): 22% 
  • Cost of living: $1,972
  • Quality of life rating: 67 

13. Buffalo, New York

In Buffalo, registered nurses have the opportunity to work across various settings including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and schools. With its rich cultural heritage and a plethora of attractions and entertainment options, Buffalo offers a stimulating environment for nursing professionals. 

  • Ranking score: 75.64
  • Population: 275,352
  • Nearby cities: Niagara Falls, NY (20.4 miles away), Rochester, NY (73.9 miles away), and Toronto, Canada (98.5 miles away)
  • Location quotient: 1.21
  • RNs employed: 12,950
  • Employment per 1,000 jobs: 20.91
  • Average RN Salary: $86,420
  • Average RN Salary Tax Rate (2024): 22% 
  • Cost of living: $3,277
  • Quality of life rating: 86 

14. Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Sioux Falls offers numerous opportunities for nurses specializing in various fields such as dialysis, surgery, pediatrics, and more. Known for its high quality of life characterized by low crime rates, affordable housing, and abundant outdoor recreational activities, Sioux Falls stands out as one of the prime locations for nurses to work in the United States.

  • Ranking score: 75.26
  • Population: 210,747
  • Nearby cities: Brookings, SD (55 miles away), Vermillion, SD (63 miles away), and Yankton, SD (76 miles away)
  • Location quotient: 2.21
  • RNs employed: 7,420
  • Employment per 1,000 jobs: 32.99
  • Average RN Salary: $ 62,780
  • Average RN Salary Tax Rate (2024): 22% 
  • Cost of living: $2,033
  • Quality of life rating: 67 

15. Gadsen, Alabama

Gadsden, Alabama, is a city with a lot of history and a vibrant cultural ambiance. Serving as the county seat of Etowah County and the primary hub of the Gadsden Metropolitan Statistical Area, Gadsden welcomes both visitors and residents with various attractions, including Noccalula Falls Park, Imagination Place, Back Forty Beer Co, and the Hardin Center for Cultural Arts. Moreover, Gadsden proves to be an excellent locale for registered nurses to work and reside. It is home to various hospitals and healthcare facilities like Riverview Regional Medical Center, Gadsden Regional Medical Center, and Mountain View Hospital.

  • Ranking score: 74.70
  • Population: 32,792
  • Nearby cities: Rainbow City (5.2 miles away), Southside (6.7 miles away), and Glencoe (7.3 miles away)
  • Location quotient: 1.67
  • RNs employed: 1,120
  • Employment per 1,000 jobs: 24.64
  • Average RN Salary: $63,860
  • Average RN Salary Tax Rate (2024): 22% 
  • Cost of living: $1,861
  • Quality of life rating: 59 

16. Wichita Falls, Texas

RNs in Wichita Falls, Texas have the flexibility to work in different places like hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, schools, and home health agencies. They can also choose to specialize in areas like pediatrics, critical care, cardiology, or surgery. In Wichita Falls, some of the highest-paying companies for registered nurses include Adventist Health, Insigma Healthcare Inc., Sutter Health, Kaiser Permanente, and Trusted Health.

  • Ranking score: 74.13
  • Population: 102,815
  • Nearby cities: Lakeside City, TX (6.52 miles away), Henrietta, TX (18 miles away), and Iowa Park, TX (10.39 miles away)
  • Location quotient: 0.86
  • RNs employed: 1,380
  • Employment per 1,000 jobs: 17.78
  • Average RN Salary: $74,130
  • Average RN Salary Tax Rate (2024): 22% 
  • Cost of living: $2,117
  • Quality of life rating: 63

17. Greenville, North Carolina

Greenville, North Carolina, is home to the ECU Health Medical Center, one of the state's largest academic medical centers. With various nursing opportunities available in different specialties like mental health, addiction medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and more, Greenville is an attractive destination for nurses seeking diverse career options.

  • Ranking score: 73.22
  • Population: 90,840
  • Nearby cities: Washinton, NC (22 miles away); Snow Hill, NC (22 miles away); and Tarboro (22 miles away)
  • Location quotient: 2.13
  • RNs employed: 3,450
  • Employment per 1,000 jobs: 22.44
  • Average RN Salary: $75,640
  • Average RN Salary Tax Rate (2024): 22%  
  • Cost of living: $2,295
  • Quality of life rating: 62

18. Gainesville, Florida

Gainesville, Florida, offers an urban-suburban atmosphere with abundant cultural and recreational activities. The city is the home of the University of Florida, providing access to top-notch education and research opportunities. Moreover, it has a vibrant healthcare sector including several hospitals and clinics. Whether you prefer the hustle of urban life or the tranquility of suburban living, Gainesville caters to diverse preferences. 

  • Ranking score: 73.06
  • Population: 148,225
  • Nearby cities: Ocala, FL (43 miles away); Palatka, FL (44 miles away); and Lake City (47 miles away)
  • Location quotient: 2.11
  • RNs employed: 6,020
  • Employment per 1,000 jobs: 21.46
  • Average RN Salary: $80,940
  • Average RN Salary Tax Rate (2024): 22% 
  • Cost of living: $2,502
  • Quality of life rating: 65 

19. Atlanta, Georgia

Among the top-paying companies for registered nurses in Atlanta are Helping Hands In-Home Care, Infojini Inc., Voyage Healthcare, White Glove Placement, Inc., and Adventist Health. Notable hospitals in Atlanta, such as Emory University Hospital, Egleston Hospital, and Emory Saint Joseph’s Hospital, deliver high-quality care and provide ongoing education for both patients and staff.

  • Ranking score: 72.78
  • Population: 498,386
  • Nearby cities: Sandy Springs, GA (16.5 miles away), Roswell, GA (22.1 miles away), and Johns Creek (27.1 miles away)
  • Location quotient: 0.8
  • RNs employed: 45,360
  • Employment per 1,000 jobs: 17.99
  • Average RN Salary: $90,270
  • Average RN Salary Tax Rate (2024): 22% 
  • Cost of living: $2,237
  • Quality of life rating: 89

20. Brownsville, Texas 

Brownsville, Texas, is located near the border of Mexico and the Gulf of Mexico. With numerous attractions and activities including museums, parks, festivals, and wildlife refuges, Brownsville offers an enticing experience for both residents and visitors. Registered nurses in Brownsville can explore various opportunities across different settings and specialties. Employers actively seeking RNs in Brownsville include DHR Health, Valley Regional Medical Center, Solara Specialty Hospital Brownsville, and U.S. Renal Care. For added flexibility and increased compensation, options such as travel nursing or per diem nursing are also available.

  • Ranking score: 68.63
  • Population: 191,774
  • Nearby cities: San Benito, TX (20.1 miles away), Harlingen, TX (26 miles away), and Mercedes, TX (39 miles away)
  • Location quotient: 0.86
  • RNs employed: 2,660
  • Employment per 1,000 jobs: 17.78
  • Average RN Salary: $72,950
  • Average RN Salary Tax Rate (2024): 22% 
  • Cost of living: $2,117
  • Quality of life rating: 63 

Here’s what registered nurses have to say about pursuing a nursing degree 

"Becoming a registered nurse has been the most fulfilling decision of my life. Not only do I get to make a difference in people's lives every day, but the flexibility and variety within the nursing profession have allowed me to grow and learn continuously. I am proud to be part of a profession that values compassion, teamwork, and innovation." - Aldrich

"Choosing nursing as my career path has opened up a world of opportunities for me. From working in diverse healthcare settings to forming deep connections with patients and their families, every day brings new challenges and rewards. The sense of fulfillment I get from knowing I've positively impacted someone's life is unparalleled." - Rei

"As a registered nurse, I've experienced firsthand the power of empathy and resilience in adversity. From comforting a frightened patient to collaborating with a multidisciplinary team, nursing has taught me invaluable life skills that extend far beyond the hospital walls. I'm grateful for the privilege to serve others and be a source of strength and support during their most vulnerable moments." - Anika

What are the factors to consider when choosing the best place to live as a nurse? 

Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best place to live as a registered nurse, according to our experts:

  • Job availability. When seeking a place to live, prioritize job availability by checking employment projections for RNs on the BLS website. You can also browse online job platforms to find employers seeking RNs matching your skills and interests.
  • Salary. Ensure competitive compensation by comparing the annual mean wage of RNs across states and metropolitan areas on the BLS website. Consider the cost of living using resources like Numbeo and Livingcost.org.
  • Quality of life. For a balanced lifestyle, assess factors like climate, culture, safety, recreation, education, healthcare, and transportation. Explore forums, tourism websites, and blogs for insights into potential locations.
  • Career advancement. Plan for career growth by researching opportunities for specialization, advanced degrees, certifications, and leadership roles. Search universities, colleges, medical institutions, and professional organizations for programs and support tailored to your goals. If considering a nutrition specialization with a nursing background, consider institutions offering dual or graduate degrees to enhance your skills.

What resources are available for registered nurses transitioning into different nursing specialties?

Registered nurses seeking to transition into different nursing specialties can benefit from utilizing various resources and implementing effective strategies to facilitate a seamless change. Below are some key insights:

1. Self-Reflection and Research 

Before transitioning, you have to reflect on the reasons for seeking a change and evaluate whether adjustments in your current role could improve your satisfaction. 

2. Networking and Shadowing 

Networking with nurses in the desired specialty offers valuable insights and potential job opportunities. Meanwhile, shadowing nurses in different units provides firsthand experience to grasp the work environment and duties associated with the new specialty.

3. Timing and Education 

Timing is critical when switching specialties; it is advisable to transition after mastering the current specialty but before encountering challenges like perceptions of job hopping. Additional education or training may be required for the new specialty, such as certification courses or auditing classes at a local college.

4. Career Pathways and Development 

Pursuing advanced certifications or post-graduate degrees can unlock opportunities for specialized roles, such as nurse practitioner or other advanced practice positions.

5. Transitioning Support 

Hospital systems frequently provide nurse residency or transition-to-practice programs for new graduates or experienced nurses transitioning to new specialties. These programs offer valuable support and education to facilitate a smooth transition into the workforce or a different nursing specialty. 

Meanwhile, here are the top industries employing registered nurses in 2022. 

Industries
Median Annual Wages
Government
$92,310
Hospitals; state, local, and private
$82,250
Ambulatory healthcare services
$78,670
Nursing and residential care facilities
$75,410
Educational services; state, local, and private
$65,450

How can registered nurses get involved in community health initiatives and outreach programs?

Here are some ways for registered nurses to engage in community health initiatives and outreach programs:

  • Volunteering and community engagement. Nurses can contribute positively to their communities by volunteering at local events. They can offer health screenings, administer vaccinations, and participate in initiatives such as blood drives. 
  • Shaping public health policy. Joining national nursing organizations offers nurses opportunities to influence health policy and advocacy efforts. These include activities such as meeting with legislators or serving on political action committees. Understanding the process of policy formation, identifying pertinent health policies, and effectively communicating with legislators are crucial steps for nurses to influence patient care positively.

What role do registered nurses play in advocating for public health and wellness in their communities?

Registered nurses play a vital role in advocating for public health and wellness in their communities. Here are some various ways they can help:

1. Improving Health Equity 

Public health nurses, including registered nurses, possess extensive knowledge of health issues, social determinants of health (SDOH), and community needs. This expertise equips them to effectively address health disparities and advocate for health equity within communities.

2. Promoting Public Wellness 

Registered nurses can help underserved and at-risk individuals in accessing essential care, preventing diseases, and reducing health risks at the population level through education and intervention efforts.

3. Community Engagement During Crises 

Nurses' participation in crisis communication, professional governance structures, and engagement initiatives is essential for ensuring effective responses to healthcare crises and fostering community well-being. Their involvement helps in coordinating efforts, providing expertise, and advocating for the needs of individuals and communities during challenging times.

How do healthcare organizations address issues of discrimination and bias in the workplace?

Here are some strategies on how healthcare organizations address issues of discrimination and bias in the workplace:

  • Increasing diversity. Research indicates that increased provider diversity correlates with enhanced healthcare quality, highlighting the significance of recruiting and retaining underrepresented minority physicians. This diversity promotes cultural competence, improves patient-provider communication, and promotes equitable access to healthcare services, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for all individuals.
  • Education and awareness. Healthcare professionals must receive education on health disparities and structural racism to effectively address biases within the healthcare system. Understanding these concepts enables professionals to recognize and challenge systemic inequalities, advocate for equitable care, and work towards eliminating healthcare disparities for marginalized communities.
  • Mentorship programs. Establishing mentorship programs aimed at increasing the representation of underrepresented minorities in healthcare careers can significantly contribute to promoting diversity and inclusivity within the field. 
  • Zero-tolerance policy. Implementing a zero-tolerance policy for harassment and discrimination, coupled with the establishment of safe reporting mechanisms, is crucial for effectively addressing discriminatory behaviors in any workplace, including healthcare settings. 

What options do registered nurses have for retirement planning and savings?

Registered nurses have multiple options for retirement planning and saving. These include pensions, employer-sponsored 401(k) or 403(b) plans, and Traditional or Roth individual retirement accounts (IRAs), to which you can contribute after-tax dollars toward your retirement.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Employee Benefits Survey 2023, retirement benefits were available to approximately 94% of private industry union workers and 68% of private industry nonunion workers. Meanwhile, about 91% of registered nurses had access to retirement benefits.

When deciding what RN retirement plan to take, consider factors such as whether your employer offers matching contributions, the intended use of the savings account, and the specific tax advantages associated with the plan. Some retirement accounts may also restrict early access or impose penalties for withdrawing funds before reaching the age of 59 and a half.

20 Best Places to Work RN 1.png

Addressing the Supply and Demand in Nursing Education

Various initiatives and policies have been proposed to address the supply and demand challenges in nursing education.

1. Addressing the shortage of public health and health equity expertise. 

To address shortages of nursing professionals in public health and health equity, investing in nursing education and traineeships in public health is recommended. Strengthening recruitment and graduation of public health nurses through applying for traineeships is essential. Additionally, nursing education should focus on disaster nursing and public health preparedness to ensure students are equipped to respond to disasters and public health crises.

Currently, the nursing profession continues to face shortages due to the following factors:

  • Lack of potential educators
  • High turnover
  • Inequitable workforce distribution

Despite these challenges, employment opportunities for RNs are expected to grow significantly. According to the American Nurses Association (ANA), registered nurse jobs will surpass all other professions in the United States through 2022. Additionally, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as cited in an article by the Nursing Times, forecasts a demand for over 275,000 additional nurses from 2020 to 2030. Moreover, nursing employment opportunities are expected to expand at a faster pace (9%) compared to all other occupations between 2016 and 2026.

2. Redesigning the curriculum to promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. 

The concept involves reshaping educational materials and approaches to ensure that they are inclusive, equitable, and representative of diverse perspectives.

Nursing schools are evolving to address current issues, requiring validation from regulatory bodies. Regular reviews are needed to keep curricula relevant. While faculty currently guide curriculum based on exam blueprints, broader changes are necessary to align with recommendations from the Future of Nursing report, regulatory bodies should integrate relevant concepts into exam blueprints for comprehensive change.

A multifaceted approach, including faculty development, is needed for radical change in nursing programs. Efforts should focus on mitigating bias, aligning concepts, and improving teaching methods. Academic nursing leaders must allocate resources for faculty development, program evaluation, and curriculum improvement. Encouraging lifelong learning on diversity and inclusion is crucial, promoting dialogue and competence among educators.

3. Strengthening the nursing workforce. 

In October 2022, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) allocated $13 million to enhance the nursing workforce and reinforce access to nursing education, recognizing its pivotal role in the healthcare system. This investment is part of the Biden-Harris Administration's initiatives. It aims to facilitate entry into high-quality nursing positions and enhance care standards in the nation's nursing homes.

Central to the HHS investment is the expansion of nursing preceptors. These are experienced licensed clinicians who oversee nursing students during clinical rotations. They play a crucial role in bridging the gap between theoretical training and practical application, ensuring students acquire the necessary skills for effective care provision. More preceptors can help nursing school admissions and deter prospective students from pursuing nursing careers. Through collaborative efforts among academia, clinicians, and communities, the HHS investment seeks to improve the quality and capacity of clinical nursing faculty and preceptors.

The HHS investment aligns with the World Health Organization's (WHO) recommendations, advocating for increased investment in nursing to enhance health outcomes, advance gender equality, and stimulate economic growth. Recognizing the pivotal role of nurses and midwives, the WHO designated 2020 as the Year of the Nurse and Midwife. 

Investing in the nursing workforce becomes increasingly imperative amidst health challenges such as:

  • Emerging infectious diseases
  • Climate change
  • Aging populations
  • Non-communicable diseases

Aside from these health challenges, about 23,507 online respondents from 34 countries see the following reasons as the biggest problems in their respective countries. See the chart below:

Nursing Employment Statistics

According to the 2022 BLS report, there were 3,072,700 million registered nurses employed in the United States. Nurses play a vital role in delivering quality care. They help in improving health outcomes, reducing health disparities, and advancing healthcare systems locally and nationally. Here are key employment statistics that can provide insight into today’s nursing job market.

General Employment Statistics and Projections 

  • Employment of RNs is projected to increase by 6% from 2022 to 2032 
  • An estimated 193,100 new RN jobs will be created by 2032 
  • The median annual wage for RNs in 2022 was $ 89,010
20 Best Places to Work RN 2.png

Other things you should know about living and working as a nurse

What state has the highest employment level of registered nurses? 

California holds the highest employment level of registered nurses, with 325,620 RNs. Meanwhile, the projected employment for RNs in California for 2028 is 373,200. California's nursing workforce remains strong and continues to expand. Its focused efforts address the nursing shortage and ensure a resilient and sustainable nursing workforce capable of meeting healthcare demands. 

What type of registered nurse is most in demand? 

The demand for registered nurses varies depending on their specialization. Here are some of them:

  • Nurse Practitioner (NP). NPs, as Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs), are responsible for diagnosing conditions, prescribing medication, and managing comprehensive patient care.
  • Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). CRNAs administer anesthesia to patients undergoing surgical procedures and play a crucial role in ensuring patient comfort and safety.
  • Neonatal Nurse. Neonatal nurses specialize in caring for newborn infants, particularly those with health complications or born prematurely.
  • Geriatric Nurse. With the aging population, there is an increased demand for geriatric nurses who understand the unique needs of elderly patients.
  • Critical Care Nurse. Critical care nurses operate in intensive care units, delivering essential care for patients with life-threatening conditions.

Where is the cheapest place to live as a nurse?

Indianapolis, Oklahoma City, Louisville, and Detroit are among the most affordable major U.S. cities for nurses to live in, based on average median home prices.

Which country is paying the highest salary for nurses? 

Luxembourg offers the highest salary for nurses globally, with an average annual salary of $97,857. After Luxembourg, Switzerland offers the second-highest salary for nurses, with an average annual salary of $93,971.

What are the key considerations for nurses when relocating to a new state or region within the US?

When considering relocating to a new state or region within the United States as a registered nurse, it's crucial to understand licensing, scope of practice, and professional regulations:

  • Licensing Requirements: Research the specific licensing process and timeline for transferring your RN license to the new state. Contact the state's nursing board for detailed information.
  • Scope of Practice: Understand the scope of practice for nurses in the new state, including any differences in protocols, procedures, and responsibilities compared to your current location.
  • Professional Regulations: Familiarize yourself with the professional regulations governing nurses in the new state, such as nurse-patient ratios, continuing education requirements, and any specific regulations relevant to your nursing specialty.

What support systems does a nursing program provide to enhance nurses' well-being in different regions or settings?

Nursing programs often offer tailored support systems to bolster nurses' well-being across various regions or settings. This includes access to mental health services, stress management workshops, and peer support networks to address emotional challenges. They may also provide resources for work-life balance, such as flexible scheduling options or childcare assistance. Additionally, programs may offer career development resources like mentorship programs and continuing education opportunities to keep nurses professionally engaged and motivated. These holistic support measures aim to nurture nurses' overall well-being, ensuring they can thrive both personally and professionally in diverse healthcare environments.

References:

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