---
title: Job Outlook for Nurses in Sarasota
url: "https://arizonacollege.edu/sarasota-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-sarasota/"
type: campus-location
date_published: 2025-10-10
date_modified: 2026-09-17
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language: en-US
word_count: 2533
reading_time: 13 min
canonical: "https://arizonacollege.edu/sarasota-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-sarasota/"
---

# Job Outlook for Nurses in Sarasota

Sarasota

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# Job Outlook for Nurses in Sarasota

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Nursing remains a cornerstone of healthcare, with demand for skilled
professionals nationwide and the Sarasota 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 Florida 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, RN salary in Florida, and nursing
opportunities in the Sarasota 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 Sarasota?

In Florida, 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 Florida, you’ll need to complete a 
[nursing degree program](https://arizonacollege.edu/sarasota-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 nursing salary in Sarasota, Florida?

Nurses in Florida, particularly in the Sarasota 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 Sarasota
region, including cities like Bradenton, offering favorable conditions for RNs.

The median RN salary in Sarasota, FL, is $86,372 annually, regional compensation
vs. national compensation is highlighted below. \*
[_Source: Lightcast Q3 2026 Data Set_](https://arizonacollege.edu/sarasota-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-sarasota/#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?zip=34201)
)

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

## Regional vs. National RN Compensation at a Glance

Registered nurses in the Sarasota, FL region earn a median salary that is 11%
lower than the national average. This chart illustrates this regional
difference.

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

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

## Nursing Careers in Sarasota

The North Port – Bradenton – Sarasota, FL metro area, is home to a growing
nursing job market.

- **Number of Registered Nurses:** The area is home to approximately 8,601
  Registered Nurses, while the national average for an area this size is 7,562.
- **Employment per 1000 jobs:** For every 1000 jobs, there are about 25
  registered nurses in the area.

These points highlight the opportunity for nursing professionals in and around
Sarasota. 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 Florida?

The Sarasota 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.

Sarasota 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 Florida.

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

The top Florida 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: September 2025 – August 2026. \*[Source: Lightcast Q3 2026 Data Set.](https://arizonacollege.edu/sarasota-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-sarasota/#source)_

| City | Total Posting | Unique Postings |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Sarasota, FL | 3,901 | 646 |
| Bradenton, FL | 4,103 | 643 |
| Venice, FL | 511 | 158 |
| North Venice, FL | 2,027 | 100 |
| Englewood, FL | 333 | 76 |
| North Port, FL | 89 | 32 |
| Parrish, FL | 55 | 12 |
| Palmetto, FL | 24 | 6 |
| Cortez, FL | 4 | 4 |
| Osprey, FL | 46 | 4 |

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

The leading industries in Florida 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/sarasota-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-sarasota/#source)

| Industries | Total (󠀁**September 2025 – August 2026**󠁿) |
| --- | --- |
| General Medical and Surgical Hospitals | 9,873 |
| Beauty Salons | 242 |
| Home Health Care Services | 130 |
| Offices of Physicians (except Mental Health Specialists) | 106 |
| Continuing Care Retirement Communities | 77 |
| Nursing Care Facilities (Skilled Nursing Facilities) | 63 |
| Kidney Dialysis Centers | 50 |
| Freestanding Ambulatory Surgical and Emergency Centers | 50 |
| Direct Health and Medical Insurance Carriers | 49 |

## What kind of job growth is there for Registered Nurses in Sarasota, Florida?

O\*NET OnLine projects positive job growth for nurses both nationally and within
the Sarasota 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=FL)

In Florida, the nursing profession is expected to grow by 13%, with nearly
14,390 annual job openings projected between 2024 and 2034. 
[_Source O\*NET OnLine_](https://www.onetonline.org/link/localtrends/29-1141.00?st=FL)

## Job Posting Demand: Regional vs. National Comparison

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

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

### Jobs (2026)

The national average for an area this size is 7,562\* employees, while there are
8,601 here.

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

### Compensation

The national median salary for Registered Nurses is $97,552, compared to $86,372
here.

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

### Job Posting Demand

The national average for an area this size is 413\* job postings/mo, while there
are 438 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 Sarasota, FL. 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 Sarasota area, comparing them to
national averages to provide a comprehensive view of job opportunities and
demand. Notably, employment trends in Sarasota are higher than the national
average. \*
[_Source: Lightcast Q3 2026 Data Set._](https://arizonacollege.edu/sarasota-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-sarasota/#source)

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

## What is the job outlook for other nursing roles in Sarasota and Florida?

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 Florida 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?zip=34201)
 reports that the national average annual wage for LPNs and LVNs is $64,400. \*
[_Source: Lightcast Q3 2026 Data Set._](https://arizonacollege.edu/sarasota-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-sarasota/#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/sarasota-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-sarasota/#source)

| Industries | % of Occupation in Industry (2026) |
| --- | --- |
| General Medical and Surgical Hospitals | 60.8% |
| Offices of Physicians | 9.3% |
| Home Health Care Services | 7.6% |
| Nursing Care Facilities (Skilled Nursing Facilities) | 4.0% |
| Specialty (except Psychiatric and Substance Abuse) Hospitals | 3.6% |
| Outpatient Care Centers | 3.1% |
| Other | 11.7% |

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

The graphic showcases the top companies in the Sarasota 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/sarasota-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-sarasota/#source)

| Top Companies | Unique Postings |
| --- | --- |
| HCA Healthcare | 510 |
| Sarasota Memorial Health Care System | 405 |
| UHS | 240 |
| Manatee Memorial Hospital | 178 |
| Incredible Health | 120 |
| Universal Health Services | 108 |
| Encompass Health | 101 |
| Empath Health | 53 |
| Ambulatory Surgical Center Of Aiken | 52 |
| Aveanna Healthcare | 49 |

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

This graphic highlights the range of nursing job titles in demand across the
Sarasota 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/sarasota-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-sarasota/#source)

| 󠀁**Top Job Titles**󠁿 | Unique Postings |
| --- | --- |
| Registered Nurses | 505 |
| Home Health Registered Nurses | 146 |
| Medical Surgical Registered Nurses | 131 |
| Operating Room Registered Nurses | 99 |
| PACU Registered Nurses | 59 |
| Emergency Room Registered Nurses | 58 |
| Registered Nurse Case Managers | 58 |
| Emergency Department Registered Nurses | 52 |
| ICU Registered Nurses | 46 |
| Orthopedic Registered Nurses | 45 |

## 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/sarasota-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-sarasota/#source)

| 󠀁**Skill**󠁿 | Job Postings Requested | Projected Growth |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | 2,905 | 14.6% |
| Nursing | 2,384 | 16.1% |
| Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification | 1,460 | 14.6% |
| Nursing Care | 1,261 | 15.3% |
| Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Certification | 869 | 12.0% |
| Acute Care | 604 | 12.7% |
| Medication Administration | 581 | 16.8% |
| Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Certification | 447 | 13.9% |
| Home Health Care | 440 | 15.7% |
| Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) | 392 | 12.5% |

## 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/sarasota-nursing-school/job-outlook-for-nurses-in-sarasota/#source)

| 󠀁**Top Programs**󠁿 | Completions (2025) |
| --- | --- |
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse | 376 |

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

![Nursing Schools in Sarasota Florida Nurse Salary](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Nursing-Schools-in-Sarasota-Florida-Nurse-Salary.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 watermark graphic](https://arizonacollege.edu/wp-content/themes/arizona-college/dist/images/azc-iconmark.svg)

## 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._