Fort Wayne is Indiana's second largest city. People love it for its deep history, lively arts scene, and standout landmarks. Way back in the 1800s, it was a major player in trade and commerce along the Wabash and Erie Canal, and the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship is still alive. In addition to its historical significance, the city is also known for its booming healthcare sector.
If you're looking for nursing jobs in Fort Wayne, IN, you’re in the right place. We’ll cover everything you need to know to live and work in this city.
Quick Facts About Nursing Jobs in Fort Wayne, IN
- Is Indiana a compact state? Yes.
- What do RNs earn in Fort Wayne? The typical RN salary in Fort Wayne is $73,240 whereas the national average RN salary is $89,010.
- Where can I find information about RN license requirements in Indiana? For updated information about RN licensing in Indiana, visit the Indiana Board of Nursing. You can also explore our in-depth guide outlining nursing requirements by state or our quick three-step explainer for Indiana nursing license renewals.
What to Know When Pursuing Nursing Jobs in Fort Wayne, IN
Fort Wayne is a bustling city with over 267,900 residents and everything a big city has to offer. It’s part of greater Allen County, an area that welcomes approximately 8.8 million visitors annually, offering nurses the opportunity to serve people of different backgrounds and cultures.
Wondering about your potential work opportunities? From big medical centers to dynamic private ventures, the options are plentiful. Hospitals, medical clinics, long-term care facilities, and various other healthcare institutions are actively seeking qualified RNs, CNAs, and LPNs, just like you. You can choose to work full time, part time, on contract, temporarily, or per diem.
Want to know more about whom you might be caring for? The city has a youthful vibe, with a median age of 35.1 — that's over three years younger than the national median of 38.4. Additionally, 14.7% of the population is age 65 and older, and 10.4% live with a disability.
You’ll encounter people from various cultural backgrounds around town and at work. Here are the demographics of this city:
- 68.3% White
- 14.7% Black
- 8.7% Hispanic or Latino
- 4.3% Asian
- 3.6% identify with two or more races
- 0.1% Native American
- 0.1% claim other race
In Fort Wayne, over 13% of residents speak other languages, with Spanish being the most common. Picking up a few phrases can go a long way to bridge communication with the patients you'll encounter.
Working in Fort Wayne
Finding nurse jobs in Fort Wayne, IN, is a promising endeavor. With a low unemployment rate of 5.1% and projected job growth of 38.6% in the next decade, the outlook is positive. Healthcare is a leading industry in the city, employing over 25,000 healthcare professionals.
This city proudly houses multiple major hospitals, numerous clinics, and a comprehensive range of healthcare facilities. Some of the top-ranked hospitals in the Fort Wayne area include:
- Lutheran Downtown Hospital
- Veterans Affairs Northern Indiana Health Care System – Fort Wayne
- Lutheran Hospital of Indiana
- Orthopedic Hospital Lutheran Health Network
- Rehabilitation Hospital of Fort Wayne
The Allen County Department of Health is another source for nursing jobs in Fort Wayne, IN. There are also community centers, doctors’ offices, assisted living facilities, and nursing homes you can apply to. Additionally, the city offers opportunities for nurses to work in educational establishments and research institutions.
Wondering about what your commute will be like? The average one-way commute is 21 minutes, which is shorter than the national average of 26 minutes. The majority of residents drive to work alone, followed by carpooling and using public transportation.
You won’t have to worry about your loved ones while you’re at work. There are plenty of pet-sitters in Fort Wayne for your four-legged family members, and childcare options for your children.
Living in Fort Wayne, IN
When you've finished exploring the numerous nursing jobs in Fort Wayne, IN, it's time to consider some fantastic outdoor activities. Nature lovers can enjoy parks like Lakeside Park, perfect for picnicking, leisurely strolls, or even a game of frisbee golf. You can also try kayaking and canoeing on one of the city’s three rivers: the St. Marys, St. Joseph, and Maumee; or hit the biking trails like the scenic Rivergreenway Trail for beautiful city views.
If art is your thing, Fort Wayne offers plenty of museums and galleries to explore, including the Fort Wayne Museum of Art and the African/African American Historical Society Museum. Additionally, you can explore the city’s numerous galleries, such as Castle and Artlink Contemporary Gallery, for some inspiration.
One of the perks of living in Fort Wayne is how friendly it is on the wallet. The cost of living here is 18% below the national average. You can rent a two-bedroom apartment for just $960 a month, or buy a home for $196,900 — 41.8% less expensive than the U.S. average.
Last but certainly not least: the weather. The climate in Fort Wayne features warm summers and freezing winters, with partly cloudy conditions year round. Temperatures typically range from 19 to 84 degrees throughout the year, offering a great option for those who enjoy experiencing all four seasons.
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