---
title: Job Outlook for Nurses in Columbus
url: "https://arizonacollege.edu/columbus-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-columbus-ohio/"
type: campus-location
date_published: 2025-10-09
date_modified: 2026-09-11
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language: en-US
word_count: 2549
reading_time: 13 min
canonical: "https://arizonacollege.edu/columbus-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-columbus-ohio/"
---

# Job Outlook for Nurses in Columbus

Columbus

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# Job Outlook for Nurses in Columbus, Ohio

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[Campus Overview](https://arizonacollege.edu/columbus-nursing-school/)

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[Campus Life](https://arizonacollege.edu/columbus-nursing-school/location/)

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[Campus FAQ](https://arizonacollege.edu/columbus-nursing-school/faq/)

Nursing remains a cornerstone of healthcare, with demand for skilled
professionals nationwide, and the Columbus area is no exception. The field
encompasses various roles, from Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Vocational
Nurses (LVNs) to Registered Nurses (RNs), each contributing to patient care.
Understanding the job outlook for nurses is essential, as it highlights the
growing need for these roles and the stability they offer in today’s healthcare
environment.

The Job Outlook for Nurses in Ohio contains information compiled from the U.S.
Bureau of Labor Statistics and various other data sources to provide you with a
solid understanding of the job outlook, RN salary, and nursing opportunities in
the Columbus metro area. This overview primarily focuses on exploring the
opportunities and professional landscape for those pursuing an RN career with a
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.

## What is an RN or Registered Nurse?

A Registered Nurse (RN) is a licensed healthcare professional responsible for a
wide range of patient care tasks. These include educating patients and families
about health conditions, identifying and addressing medical concerns,
administering medications, and advocating for patient well-being. RNs also
design, implement, and evaluate nursing care plans, making them essential to
ensuring coordinated and effective patient care.

## How do you become a nurse in Columbus?

In Ohio, there are several pathways to enter the nursing profession, depending
on the type of nurse. For example, Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) can begin
their careers after completing a state-approved training program and passing a
competency exam. Those aiming to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) need to
complete a practical nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam.

To become a Registered Nurse in Columbus, you’ll need to complete a
[nursing degree program](https://arizonacollege.edu/columbus-nursing-school/).
Among available options, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is one
of the most popular, providing graduates with a strong foundation in nursing
education, a broad selection of specialties, and increased job growth potential.
After earning your degree, you must take the
[National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX-RN)](https://www.nclex.com/index.page).

Passing the NCLEX-RN examination grants individuals eligibility to apply for a
nursing license in the state where they intend to practice as a Registered
Nurse.

## What is the median RN salary in Ohio?

Nurses in Ohio, particularly in the Columbus metropolitan area, enjoy
competitive salaries. The positive job outlook for nurses means that even those
newly entering the field can often find stable employment, with the Columbus
region—including nearby cities like Hamilton, Westwood, and Forestville—offering
favorable conditions for RNs.

The median RN salary in Columbus, OH, is $84,291 annually. Regional compensation
versus national averages is highlighted below. \*
[_Source: Lightcast Q3 2026 Data Set_](https://arizonacollege.edu/columbus-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-columbus-ohio/#source)

For those reaching the top percentiles of the profession, the earning potential
is even greater. Nationally, registered nurses in the 90th percentile earn an
hourly wage of $66.09, which amounts to an annual salary of $137,470. According
to May 2025 data, RNs in the 10th percentile—often those just beginning their
careers or working in entry-level roles—earn an hourly wage of $33.14,
translating to an annual salary of $68,940. This range demonstrates the
potential for salary growth as RNs gain experience and advance in their careers.
(Source:
[Registered Nurses BLS May 2025 Data](https://www.onetonline.org/link/localwages/29-1141.00?st=OH)
)

![Graph of RN Salaries in Columbus](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Graph-of-RN-Salaries-in-Columbus.webp)

## Regional vs. National RN Compensation at a Glance

Registered nurses in the Columbus, OH region earn a median salary that is 14%
lower than the national average. This chart illustrates this regional
difference.

\*
[_Source: Lightcast Q3 2026 Data Set_](https://arizonacollege.edu/columbus-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-columbus-ohio/#source)

![Graph of RN Salaries in Ohio](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Graph-of-RN-Salaries-in-Ohio.webp)

## Nursing Careers in Columbus

The Columbus, OH metro area is home to a growing nursing job market.

- **Number of Registered Nurses:** The area is home to approximately 31,367
  Registered Nurses, while the national average for an area this size is 24,517.
- **Employment per 1000 jobs:** For every 1000 jobs, there are about 28
  registered nurses in the area.

These points highlight the opportunity for nursing professionals in and around
Columbus. A career in nursing not only offers a stable and rewarding profession
but also the opportunity to work in many different fields and specialties. 
[_Source: BLS May 2025 Data_](https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_38060.htm)

## Where do RNs work in Ohio?

The Columbus metro area boasts a variety of large hospital networks, specialty
clinics, and long-term care facilities. Arizona College of Nursing’s three-year
BSN program is designed to prepare graduates for entry-level roles across these
sectors.

Columbus offers job opportunities in both acute care and ambulatory settings,
with growth projected for both these fields.

Nurses also enjoy significant career flexibility. Beyond traditional day shifts,
many healthcare institutions offer evening, overnight, weekend, and holiday
shifts. Employers often provide shift differentials, offering higher pay for
non-day shifts, which can notably boost your RN salary in Ohio.

## What are the top Ohio cities by RN job postings?

The top Ohio cities for total and unique registered nurse job postings are
highlighted in the table below. These cities are key centers for nursing
careers, offering a variety of opportunities for registered nurses across the
state.

_Date Range for Total & Unique Postings: August 2025 – July 2026. \*[Source: Lightcast Q3 2026 Data Set.](https://arizonacollege.edu/columbus-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-columbus-ohio/#source)_

| City | Total Postings | Unique Postings |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Columbus, OH | 6,916 | 2,200 |
| Lancaster, OH | 247 | 124 |
| Dublin, OH | 277 | 121 |
| London, OH | 173 | 63 |
| Westerville, OH | 141 | 60 |
| Grove City, OH | 182 | 54 |
| Delaware, OH | 76 | 38 |
| Hilliard, OH | 85 | 33 |
| Gahanna, OH | 83 | 31 |
| Newark, OH | 46 | 28 |

## What are the top industries hiring nurses in Ohio?

The leading industries in Ohio are expanding rapidly, creating job opportunities
across different fields. These sectors provide diverse career paths for
professionals seeking to advance their careers. \*
[_Source: Lightcast Q3 2026 Data Set._](https://arizonacollege.edu/columbus-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-columbus-ohio/#source)

| Industries | Total (August 2025 – July 2026) |
| --- | --- |
| Offices of Physicians (except Mental Health Specialists) | 2,900 |
| Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools | 1,735 |
| General Medical and Surgical Hospitals | 1,137 |
| Pharmacies and Drug Retailers | 279 |
| Kidney Dialysis Centers | 252 |
| Direct Health and Medical Insurance Carriers | 201 |
| Home Health Care Services | 190 |
| Nursing Care Facilities (Skilled Nursing Facilities) | 181 |
| Administration of Veterans’ Affairs | 142 |
| Continuing Care Retirement Communities | 90 |
| Human Resources Consulting Services | 80 |
| Marketing Consulting Services | 78 |

## What kind of job growth is there for Registered Nurses in Columbus, Ohio?

O\*NET OnLine projects positive job growth for nurses both nationally and within
the Columbus metro area over the next decade.

From 2024 to 2034, job growth for registered nurses in the United States is
expected to grow 5%, potentially creating around 189,100 new nursing positions
annually by 2034. 
[_Source O\*NET OnLine_](https://www.onetonline.org/link/localtrends/29-1141.00?st=OH)

In Ohio, the nursing profession is expected to grow by 2%, with nearly 7,190
annual job openings projected between 2024 and 2034. 
[_Source O\*NET OnLine_](https://www.onetonline.org/link/localtrends/29-1141.00?st=OH)

## Job Posting Demand: Regional vs. National Comparison

This section highlights key comparisons between the Columbus metro area and the
national average in terms of job opportunities, compensation, and demand for
nursing positions. It provides insights into how the Columbus area aligns with
or differs from national trends across these key factors. \*
[_Source: Lightcast Q3 2026 Data Set._](https://arizonacollege.edu/columbus-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-columbus-ohio/#source)

![Graph of RN Jobs in Columbus](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Graph-of-RN-Jobs-in-Columbus.webp?w=1024)

### Jobs (2026)

The national average for an area this size is 24,517\* employees, while there
are 31,367 here.

![Graph of RN Salaries in Columbus](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Graph-of-RN-Salaries-in-Columbus.webp?w=1024)

### Compensation

The national median salary for Registered Nurses is $97,552, compared to $84,291
here.

![Graph of RN Job Postings in Columbus](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Graph-of-RN-Job-Postings-in-Columbus.webp?w=1024)

### Job Posting Demand

The national average for an area this size is 1,361\* job postings/mo, while
there are 1,246 here.

_\*National average values are derived by taking the national value for Registered Nurses and scaling it down to account for the difference in overall workforce size between the nation and Columbus, OH. In other words, the value represents the national average adjusted for region size._

## Employment Trends: Regional vs. National Averages

The data highlights employment trends in the Columbus area, comparing them to
national averages to provide a comprehensive view of job opportunities and
demand. Notably, employment trends in Columbus are higher than the national
average. \*
[_Source: Lightcast Q3 2026 Data Set._](https://arizonacollege.edu/columbus-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-columbus-ohio/#source)

![Graph of RN Jobs in Ohio](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Graph-of-RN-Jobs-in-Ohio.webp)

## What is the job outlook for other nursing roles in Columbus and Ohio?

Registered nurses (RNs) are essential to healthcare delivery, but they are not
the only nursing professionals involved in patient care. Licensed practical
nurses (LPNs) and licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) also contribute
significantly to patient care and support healthcare teams. Similar to RN roles,
the outlook for LPNs and LVNs in Ohio remains promising.

As of May 2025, data from the 
[U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)](https://www.onetonline.org/link/localwages/29-2061.00?st=OH)
 reports that the national average annual wage for LPNs and LVNs is $64,400. \*
[_Source: Lightcast Q3 2026 Data Set._](https://arizonacollege.edu/columbus-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-columbus-ohio/#source)

On average, LPNs and LVNs earn less than registered nurses across the country.
This difference is largely due to the broader scope of responsibilities that RNs
take on in patient care compared to LPNs and LVNs.

While LPNs and LVNs are vital to the healthcare system, those considering a
nursing career should note that becoming an RN with a BSN offers more extensive
career advancement opportunities than pursuing a role as an LPN.

## Industry Sectors with the Most Job Opportunities

The graphic highlights the industry sectors where nursing jobs are most commonly
found, with the majority of positions located within the general medical and
surgical hospitals sector. This sector remains the largest employer of nursing
professionals, offering numerous opportunities for career growth. \*
[_Source: Lightcast Q3 2026 Data Set._](https://arizonacollege.edu/columbus-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-columbus-ohio/#source)

| Industries | % of Occupation in Industry (2026) |
| --- | --- |
| General Medical and Surgical Hospitals | 38.6% |
| Education and Hospitals (State Government) | 15.3% |
| Home Health Care Services | 11.4% |
| Offices of Physicians | 6.9% |
| Outpatient Care Centers | 3.7% |
| Nursing Care Facilities (Skilled Nursing Facilities) | 3.6% |
| Other | 20.4% |

## Who are the top nursing employers hiring in the Columbus area?

The graphic showcases the top companies in the Columbus area that are leading
the way in nursing job opportunities. These employers represent a diverse range
of healthcare providers, offering significant contributions to the region’s
healthcare system and attracting skilled nursing professionals. \*
[_Source: Lightcast Q3 2026 Data Set._](https://arizonacollege.edu/columbus-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-columbus-ohio/#source)

| Top Companies | Unique Postings |
| --- | --- |
| OhioHealth | 1,041 |
| Ohio State University | 383 |
| Mount Carmel Health System | 373 |
| Aya Healthcare | 334 |
| Trinity Health | 254 |
| AMN Healthcare | 188 |
| Trusted Health | 184 |
| Viemed Healthcare Staffing | 180 |
| Soliant Health | 143 |
| Zenex Partners | 136 |

## What are the top nursing job titles in the Columbus area?

This graphic highlights the range of nursing job titles in demand across the
Columbus area, offering insight into the roles shaping the local healthcare
workforce. The variety of titles reflects the wide range of opportunities
available within the nursing community. \*
[_Source: Lightcast Q3 2026 Data Set._](https://arizonacollege.edu/columbus-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-columbus-ohio/#source)

| Top Job Titles | Unique Postings |
| --- | --- |
| Registered Nurses | 844 |
| Medical Surgical Registered Nurses | 245 |
| Staff Nurses | 186 |
| ICU Registered Nurses | 170 |
| Emergency Department Registered Nurses | 166 |
| PACU Registered Nurses | 149 |
| Labor and Delivery Registered Nurses | 146 |
| Registered Nurse Case Managers | 145 |
| PCU Registered Nurses | 143 |
| Medical Surgical Telemetry Travel Registered Nurses | 137 |

## What are the top skills in demand for nursing professionals?

The graphic below showcases the top skills most in demand across nursing job
postings, along with the projected growth for each skill. These competencies are
key to staying competitive in the nursing field and are expected to influence
future job opportunities. \*
[_Source: Lightcast Q3 2026 Data Set._](https://arizonacollege.edu/columbus-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-columbus-ohio/#source)

| Skill | Job Postings Requested | Projected Growth |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | 7,205 | 14.6% |
| Nursing | 4,915 | 16.1% |
| Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification | 3,229 | 14.6% |
| Nursing Care | 2,634 | 15.3% |
| Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Certification | 1,449 | 12.0% |
| Medication Administration | 1,273 | 16.8% |
| Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) | 979 | 15.1% |
| Nursing Process | 949 | 19.7% |
| Medical Records | 771 | 13.1% |
| Intensive Care Unit | 747 | 6.8% |

## Leading Nursing Programs

The chart below presents the nursing programs with the highest number of
completions, underscoring the prominence of Registered Nursing as the primary
choice for many nursing students. Other specialized fields, such as Nursing
Administration and Family Practice Nursing, also demonstrate notable completion
figures, highlighting growing interest in advanced nursing roles. \*
[_Source: Lightcast Q3 2026 Data Set._](https://arizonacollege.edu/columbus-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-columbus-ohio/#source)

| Top Programs | Completions (2025) |
| --- | --- |
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse | 2,177 |
| Family Practice Nurse/Nursing | 66 |
| Nursing Practice | 61 |
| Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse/Nursing | 44 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing, Other | 23 |
| Nursing Administration | 17 |
| Adult Health Nurse/Nursing | 6 |

## Do you need a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing to be a nurse in Columbus?

![Ohio Nursing College Near Me](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Ohio-Nursing-Program-Near-Me.webp)

While some entry-level nursing positions may not require a bachelor’s degree,
several nursing associations, government bodies, and healthcare organizations
acknowledge the value of the skills that BSN-prepared nurses bring to their
roles and encourage employers to adopt the BSN as the standard for new hires in
nursing.

According to 
_[The American Association of Colleges of Nursing](https://www.aacnnursing.org/news-data/fact-sheets/impact-of-education-on-nursing-practice)_
, nurses with a BSN are more adept at handling complex patient cases and are
linked to better patient outcomes due to their advanced training. Though there
are other entry points into nursing, pursuing a BSN opens up broader career
prospects such as employment at a 
[Magnet-designated](https://www.nursingworld.org/organizational-programs/magnet/)
 hospital.

With job growth, stability, and competitive compensation, nursing offers an
excellent career path.

## Arizona College of Nursing is Here to Help

If you’re considering a career as a registered nurse (RN), Arizona College of
Nursing is here to help you pursue your dream. Learn more about our BSN program
here.

_\*The included job listing data is sourced from proprietary job outlook reports developed by Lightcast. The information on this page is derived from data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and consolidated reports from Lightcast, except for indicated external links._