---
title: Job Outlook for Nurses in South Carolina
url: "https://arizonacollege.edu/greenville-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-south-carolina/"
type: campus-location
date_published: 2025-10-06
date_modified: 2026-09-11
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language: en-US
word_count: 2579
reading_time: 13 min
canonical: "https://arizonacollege.edu/greenville-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-south-carolina/"
---

# Job Outlook for Nurses in South Carolina

Greenville

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# Job Outlook for Nurses in South Carolina

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Nursing remains a cornerstone of healthcare, with demand for skilled
professionals nationwide and the Greenville 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 South Carolina contains information compiled from
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and various other data sources to provide you
with a solid understanding of the job outlook, nursing salary for RNs in South
Carolina, and nursing opportunities in the Greenville metro area. Information in
this overview will primarily focus 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
variety of patient care tasks. These include educating patients and families
about health conditions, identifying and addressing potential medical issues,
administering medications, and advocating for patient well-being. RNs also
design, implement, and assess nursing care plans, making them essential in
ensuring coordinated and effective patient care.

## How do you become a nurse in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, there are several pathways to enter the nursing profession,
depending on the type of nurse. For example, Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs)
can start 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 South Carolina, you’ll need to complete a 
[nursing degree program](https://arizonacollege.edu/greenville-nursing-school/).
Among program choices, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is one of
the most popular, providing graduates with a foundation in nursing education, a
broad choice in specialties, and increased job growth potential. After earning a
degree, graduates 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 South Carolina?

Nurses in South Carolina, particularly in the Greenville 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
Greenville region, including cities like Anderson and Greer, offering favorable
conditions for RNs.

The median RN salary in Greenville, SC, is $81,974 annually, regional
compensation vs. national compensation is highlighted below. \*
[_Source: Lightcast Q3 2026 Data Set_](https://arizonacollege.edu/greenville-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-south-carolina/#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 in entry-level roles, earn an hourly wage of $33.14, translating to
an annual salary of $68,940. This range illustrates 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=SC)
)

![Graph of Registered Nurse Salaries in Greenville, SC](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Graph-of-Registered-Nurse-Salaries-in-Greenville-SC.webp)

## Regional vs. National RN Compensation at a Glance

Registered nurses in the Greenville, SC region earn a median salary that is 16%
lower than the national average. This chart illustrates this regional
difference.

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

![Graph of Registered Nurse Pay in South Carolina](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Graph-of-Registered-Nurse-Pay-in-South-Carolina.webp)

## Nursing Careers in Greenville

The Greenville – Anderson – Greer, SC metro area, is home to a growing nursing
job market.

- **Number of Registered Nurses:** The area is home to approximately 9,830
  Registered Nurses, while the national average for an area this size is 9,640.
- **Employment per 1000 jobs:** For every 1000 jobs, there are about 22
  registered nurses in the area.

These points highlight the opportunity for nursing professionals in and around
Greenville. 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 South Carolina?

The Greenville 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.

Greenville 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 South Carolina.

## What are the top South Carolina cities by RN job postings?

The top South Carolina 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/greenville-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-south-carolina/#source)_

| City | Total Postings | Unique Postings |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Greenville, SC | 4,547 | 1,685 |
| Greer, SC | 469 | 228 |
| Easley, SC | 491 | 166 |
| Simpsonville, SC | 410 | 154 |
| Anderson, SC | 331 | 137 |
| Clinton, SC | 229 | 75 |
| Travelers Rest, SC | 211 | 61 |
| Clemson, SC | 88 | 24 |
| Piedmont, SC | 56 | 22 |
| Gantt, SC | 46 | 20 |

## What are the top industries hiring nurses in South Carolina?

The leading industries in South Carolina 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/greenville-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-south-carolina/#source)

| Industries | Total (August 2025 – July 2026) |
| --- | --- |
| General Medical and Surgical Hospitals | 4,852 |
| Offices of Physicians (except Mental Health Specialists) | 828 |
| Other Residential Care Facilities | 309 |
| Home Health Care Services | 245 |
| Surgical and Medical Instrument Manufacturing | 205 |
| Nursing Care Facilities (Skilled Nursing Facilities) | 59 |
| Other General Government Support | 53 |
| Lessors of Nonresidential Buildings (except Miniwarehouses) | 49 |
| Kidney Dialysis Centers | 23 |

## What kind of job growth is there for Registered Nurses in Greenville, South Carolina?

O\*NET OnLine projects positive job growth for nurses both nationally and within
the Greenville – Anderson – Greer 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=SC)

In South Carolina, the nursing profession is expected to grow by 8%, with nearly
3,060 annual job openings projected between 2024 and 2034. 
[_Source O\*NET OnLine_](https://www.onetonline.org/link/localtrends/29-1141.00?st=SC)

## Job Posting Demand: Regional vs. National Comparison

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

![Graph of Registered Nurse Jobs in Greenville South Carolina](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Graph-of-Registered-Nurse-Jobs-in-Greenville-South-Carolina.webp?w=1024)

### Jobs (2026)

The national average for an area this size is 9,640\* employees, while there are
9,830 here.

![Graph of Registered Nurse Salaries in Greenville, SC](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Graph-of-Registered-Nurse-Salaries-in-Greenville-SC.webp?w=1024)

### Compensation

The national median salary for Registered Nurses is $97,552, compared to $81,974
here.

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

### Job Posting Demand

The national average for an area this size is 535\* job postings/mo, while there
are 455 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 Greenville, SC. 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 Greenville area, comparing them to
national averages to provide a comprehensive view of job opportunities and
demand. Notably, employment trends in Greenville are about the same as the
national average. \*
[_Source: Lightcast Q3 2026 Data Set._](https://arizonacollege.edu/greenville-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-south-carolina/#source)

![Graph of Registered Nurse Jobs in South Carolina](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Graph-of-Registered-Nurse-Jobs-in-South-Carolina.webp)

## What is the job outlook for other nursing roles in Greenville and South Carolina?

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 South Carolina 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=SC)
 reports that the national average annual wage for LPNs and LVNs is $64,400. \*
[_Source: Lightcast Q3 2026 Data Set._](https://arizonacollege.edu/greenville-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-south-carolina/#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/greenville-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-south-carolina/#source)

| Industries | % of Occupation in Industry (2026) |
| --- | --- |
| Education and Hospitals (Local Government) | 31.2% |
| General Medical and Surgical Hospitals | 22.1% |
| Offices of Physicians | 9.8% |
| Home Health Care Services | 8.8% |
| Nursing Care Facilities (Skilled Nursing Facilities) | 5.4% |
| Employment Services | 4.9% |
| Other | 17.8% |

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

The graphic showcases the top companies in the Greenville 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/greenville-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-south-carolina/#source)

| Top Companies | Unique Postings |
| --- | --- |
| Prisma Health | 770 |
| Mercyhealth | 173 |
| United States Renal Care Incorporated | 105 |
| Aya Healthcare | 94 |
| Interim HealthCare | 81 |
| Agape Care Group | 77 |
| Anmed Health | 76 |
| Bon Secours | 56 |
| Soliant Health | 53 |
| Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System | 42 |

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

This graphic highlights the range of nursing job titles in demand across the
Greenville 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/greenville-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-south-carolina/#source)

| Top Job Titles | Unique Postings |
| --- | --- |
| Registered Nurses | 421 |
| Home Health Registered Nurses | 105 |
| Acute Care Registered Nurses | 102 |
| Emergency Department Registered Nurses | 90 |
| Dialysis Registered Nurses | 89 |
| Medical Surgical Telemetry Registered Nurses | 84 |
| Medical Surgical Registered Nurses | 82 |
| Telemetry Registered Nurses | 72 |
| Hospice Registered Nurses | 62 |
| Ambulatory Registered Nurses | 59 |

## 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/greenville-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-south-carolina/#source)

| Skill | Job Postings Requested | Projected Growth |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | 2,607 | 14.6% |
| Nursing | 2,155 | 16.1% |
| Nursing Care | 1,134 | 15.3% |
| Medication Administration | 1,122 | 16.8% |
| Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification | 806 | 14.6% |
| Nursing Process | 705 | 19.7% |
| Nursing Practices | 683 | 15.6% |
| Acute Care | 510 | 12.7% |
| Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Certification | 448 | 12.0% |
| Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Certification | 428 | 13.9% |

## 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/greenville-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-south-carolina/#source)

| Top Programs | Completions (2025) |
| --- | --- |
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse | 540 |
| Nursing Practice | 74 |
| Health/Medical Preparatory Programs, Other | 29 |
| Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse/Nursing | 3 |

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

![BSN Nursing Schools in South Carolina](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BSN-Nursing-Schools-in-South-Carolina.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._