Nestled in the Virginia peninsula, Newport News is a city with a unique history and allure. This vibrant community offers both coastal charm and urban vitality. Whether you're strolling along the picturesque waterfront, exploring cultural attractions, or savoring a meal at one of Newport News’ acclaimed restaurants, there’s always more to see and enjoy.
Home to respected institutions like Christopher Newport University and a thriving healthcare sector, Newport News can be a great home for nurses. If you're considering a nursing career in this city, this is your guide to discover the abundant nursing opportunities and the coastal lifestyle that await you here. Here’s what to know if you’re looking for nursing jobs in Newport News, VA.
Quick Facts About Nursing Jobs in Newport News, VA
- Is Virginia a compact state? Yes. A compact license is valid to practice nursing in the state of Virginia.
- What’s the average hourly rate for nurses in Virginia? The average RN in Newport News makes $79,450 per year, compared to the national average of $89,010.
- Where can I find information about RN license requirements in Virginia? The Virginia Board of Nursing can answer your licensure questions. Learn more about the Virginia license renewal process.
What to Know When Searching for Nursing Jobs in Newport News, VA
With a population over 180,000, Newport News is the fifth most populated city in Virginia. The median age is 33.8 years, younger than the national average of 39. The gender distribution is nearly balanced, with a slightly higher number of women than men.
Newport News is a city known for its diversity, with 44% of residents identifying as White, 40% as Black, 9% as Hispanic or Latino, 4% as two or more races, and 3% as Asian. In the healthcare field, you'll have the opportunity to work with and care for people from various cultural backgrounds.
When it comes to nursing job opportunities, Newport News offers a wide range of options to suit your preferences. Whether you're an RN, LPN, or CNA, you'll find ample opportunities for full-time, part-time, contract, temporary, and per diem nursing positions in the city.
Working in Newport News
As a nurse in this city, you'll find yourself in a dynamic healthcare environment, serving a diverse community. Newport News is home to two hospitals, so it’s a great market to find nursing jobs. Ben Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital and Riverside Regional Medical Center are both magnet-designated institutions. And if you’re looking for nursing home jobs in Newport News, VA, there are many facilities to choose from.
The overall job market outlook for Newport News is promising, with a projected job growth rate of nearly 32% over the next decade. Though this growth is slightly below the expected national average, healthcare and social services account for the largest percentage of the population by occupation — you can still expect a strong demand for nurses.
Industries like advanced computing, military ship and submarine building, and advanced manufacturing also call Newport News home. The city’s rich history, combined with cutting-edge military innovation, make it a vibrant place to work.
Getting to work in Newport News is convenient, with an average commute of 23 minutes. Most residents rely on solo commuting (79.1%), followed by carpooling (9.3%), mass transit (3.4%), and those who avoid a commute by working from home (2.1%). The Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) offers accessible bus routes for those in need of public transportation.
Living in Newport News
Day-to-day life in Newport News is relaxed; it’s a beach town after all. You’ll get the urban convenience of having the necessities close by, with the coastal charm of the Atlantic not far away. It’s easy to find great restaurants throughout the city — from smokehouses and taverns to oyster bars and steak houses. You’ll also find tasty spots for snacks and drinks.
Much of the city’s history comes from its roots as a shipbuilding and military port, which you can learn more about at the Mariner’s Museum. If you’re looking for more history, the Virginia War Museum and U.S. Army Transportation Museum are also near Newport News. Or if nature is more your style, check out the Virginia Living Museum.
If you love shopping, Newport News is a great place for retail therapy. It’s a shopping hub of the Hampton Roads Region, with shopping districts both in the downtown and Oyster Point areas. You’ll find high-rise apartment complexes with retail stores and restaurants below — giving you plenty of ways to spend a paycheck.
Looking to spend some time outside instead? Newport News has dozens of parks and outdoor spaces. There are hiking and walking trails throughout the city, and you’ll likely stumble upon a notable historic site while you’re strolling. Skip rocks at Mariner’s Lake, see the flowers at Deer Park, or get a hotdog at Riverview Farm Park. And if you’re looking for some real waves, you’re less than an hour from Virginia Beach.
Newport News has a temperate climate that’s moderated by the James River and Chesapeake Bay. Summers are warm and humid, but temperatures rarely breach the 90s. Winters offer a chilly respite, occasionally dusted with snow.
If you’re moving to the area, Newport News’ cost of living comes in at just lower than the national average. The average house costs $256,900, and the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,240. If you’re making the average RN salary in Newport News, that should be well within your budget.
Looking for Nursing Jobs in Newport News, VA?
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