Registered Nurse in Enid, OK

Of course. Here is a comprehensive career guide for Registered Nurses considering a move to Enid, Oklahoma.

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The Salary Picture: Where Enid Stands

As a local, I can tell you that Enid isn't a place where nurses get rich overnight, but the financial picture is surprisingly solid, especially when you factor in the low cost of living. The data tells a compelling story for a mid-sized Plains city.

The median salary for a Registered Nurse in the Enid metro area is $82,480/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $39.65/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $86,070/year, but that comparison is misleading without context. While you might earn a few thousand more in a coastal city, your housing and daily expenses would be exponentially higher.

The local job market is stable and present, with an estimated 457 RN jobs in the metro. The 10-year job growth projection is a respectable 6%, which aligns with national trends for an aging population and shows steady, sustainable demand rather than a volatile boom.

Here’s how salary typically breaks down by experience level in this region:

Experience Level	Typical Years of Experience	Salary Range (Enid Metro)
Entry-Level RN	0 - 2 years	$68,000 - $75,000
Mid-Career RN	3 - 9 years	$78,000 - $88,000
Senior RN	10 - 19 years	$85,000 - $95,000
Expert/Specialist RN	20+ years	$90,000+ (varies by specialty)

Note: Ranges are estimates based on local job postings and BLS data. Expert-level salaries can exceed this for roles like Nurse Practitioners or specialized ICU nurses.

When you compare Enid to other Oklahoma cities, its value proposition becomes clear. While Oklahoma City and Tulsa offer slightly higher median salaries (often in the $84,000 - $88,000 range), their cost of living is significantly higher. Enid provides a strong wage that goes much further, offering a quality of life that's hard to match in larger, more expensive metros.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get down to brass tacks. A median salary of $82,480 sounds good, but what does it mean for your monthly budget in Enid?

Here’s a realistic monthly breakdown for a single RN earning the median salary. (Note: Take-home pay is an estimate after federal, state, and FICA taxes, and may vary based on your specific deductions.)

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Gross Monthly Pay	$6,873	($82,480 / 12)
Estimated Take-Home Pay	$5,150	Varies by withholdings, health insurance, etc.
Rent (1BR Average)	-$760	The city-wide average.
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Water, Internet)	-$200	Enid's climate can mean higher A/C/heating costs.
Groceries	-$400	For one person, reasonable and healthy.
Car Payment & Insurance	-$450	Enid is car-dependent.
Gas (Fuel)	-$150	Commutes are short, but you'll drive everywhere.
Healthcare (Out-of-Pocket)	-$150	Assumes employer-provided insurance.
Misc. / Savings / Student Loans	-$3,040	This is where Enid's low cost of living shines.

Can they afford to buy a home?
Absolutely. With a take-home pay of over $5,000 and average rent under $800, saving for a down payment is very achievable. The median home price in Enid hovers around $160,000 - $175,000. A 20% down payment would be roughly $32,000 - $35,000, which a disciplined RN could save in 2-3 years. A monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) on a $170,000 home could be around $1,100 - $1,200, which is still very manageable on a single RN salary. Many local nurses I know own their own homes, often with significant yard space.

The Where the Jobs Are: Enid's Major Employers

Enid’s healthcare ecosystem is dominated by a few key players, with a mix of public, private, and regional systems. Hiring trends are consistently strong for experienced RNs, especially in Med/Surg, ICU, and ER. New grads can find positions but may need more flexibility on shift or unit.

1. Integris Bass Baptist Health Center: The largest employer in the city. This is a full-service, 100-bed hospital with a Level III Trauma Center. They are the primary hub for acute care. Hiring trends are steady, with frequent openings in the ER, ICU, and Med/Surg floors. They are part of the larger Integris Health system, which offers opportunities for movement within Oklahoma.

2. St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center: Part of the Mercy health system, this is the other major hospital in town. It’s a 173-bed facility with a wide range of services. Mercy is known for its strong focus on nursing professional development and specialty certifications. They often have needs in labor & delivery, pediatrics, and surgical services.

3. Northwest Oklahoma Wellness Center (NWWC): A newer, state-of-the-art facility that focuses on outpatient and wellness services. It’s a great option for RNs seeking a non-hospital, 9-to-5 type environment. Roles here are often in case management, occupational health, or outpatient surgery.

4. Enid Public Schools (EPS): The school district is a major employer of RNs, particularly for roles in school health. This is a coveted position for those seeking a regular daytime schedule aligned with the school calendar. It’s less about acute care and more about managing chronic conditions, first aid, and health education.

5. Autry Technology Center: While not a direct healthcare employer, the nursing program here is a key pipeline. As an RN, you might find opportunities as a clinical instructor or adjunct faculty, which can be a rewarding way to supplement income and give back to the local nursing community.

6. Local Long-Term Care & Rehab Facilities: Facilities like The Living Center and Greenbrier Nursing Home are always in need of RNs for supervisory and MDS coordinator roles, especially for those with an interest in geriatrics and sub-acute care.

Getting Licensed in OK

If you’re moving from another state, you’ll need to secure an Oklahoma RN license. The process is straightforward but requires planning.

Requirements & Process:

1. NCLEX-RN Pass: You must have passed the NCLEX-RN exam.
2. Application: Submit an online application through the Oklahoma Board of Nursing (OBN) website. You’ll need to provide official transcripts from your nursing program.
3. Fingerprinting & Background Check: Oklahoma requires a fingerprint-based background check. You can schedule this through the OBN's approved vendor.
4. Endorsement: If you’re already licensed in another state, you’ll apply by endorsement. You will need verification of your current license from your home state’s board.
5. Cost: The application fee is $115, with additional costs for fingerprinting (around $50). The total initial licensing cost is typically $150-$200.
6. Timeline: The process can take 4-8 weeks from the time you submit a complete application. It's wise to start this process as soon as you have a job offer in hand.

Insider Tip: The OBN website is your best friend. It’s user-friendly and lists all forms and fees clearly. For out-of-state nurses, start the license verification process early, as it can sometimes take time for other state boards to respond.

Best Neighborhoods for Registered Nurses

Enid is a driving city, but choosing the right neighborhood can minimize your commute and match your lifestyle.

1. Downtown / Jefferson Addition: This is the revitalized historic core. Think older, charming homes, new breweries, and coffee shops. It’s a 5-minute drive to Integris Bass Baptist. The vibe is walkable and social, but housing options are a mix of rentals and historic homes. Rent Estimate: $800 - $1,200 for a 1BR apartment or a small house.

2. Northwest Enid (near St. Mary’s): This area offers established neighborhoods with mature trees and larger lots. It’s very family-friendly and is the closest you can get to St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center without a long commute. You'll find a good mix of mid-century brick homes and apartment complexes. Rent Estimate: $700 - $950 for a 1BR/2BR apartment.

3. Southwest Enid (near Autry Tech & the Mall): This is a more modern area with newer apartment complexes and subdivisions. It’s convenient to shopping and dining, and the commute to either hospital is about 10-15 minutes. A popular choice for younger professionals and new families. Rent Estimate: $750 - $1,100 for a modern 1BR/2BR apartment.

4. Waukomis (North of Enid): A small, quiet town about 10-15 minutes north of Enid. It offers a true small-town feel with larger properties and lower housing costs. The commute to Integris is straightforward via US-81. Ideal for those who want space and quiet. Rent Estimate: $600 - $800 for a house or duplex.

5. Chisholm / Pioneer Area (East of Enid): This is the suburban spread with newer, larger homes, excellent public schools, and easy access to the major highways. Commutes to both hospitals are 15-20 minutes. It’s the go-to area for nurses with families who prioritize school districts. Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,300 for a newer 1BR/2BR apartment.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Your career trajectory in Enid can be very rewarding if you’re strategic.

Specialty Premiums:
While general Med/Surg nurses earn near the median, certain specialties command higher pay. Based on local job postings and industry knowledge, you can expect a premium of 5-15% over the base salary for roles in:

• ICU / Critical Care
• Emergency Department (ER)
• Labor & Delivery / Mother-Baby
• Operating Room (OR) / Perioperative

Advancement Paths:
Beyond bedside nursing, Enid offers solid paths to advancement:

• Charge Nurse: A common first step into leadership, with a small pay increase.
• Nurse Manager / Director: Requires a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) and often an MSN (Master of Science in Nursing). Both local hospitals have internal leadership tracks.
• Clinical Nurse Educator: A role focused on training and orienting new staff.
• Nurse Practitioner (NP): The University of Oklahoma offers an FNP program, and many Enid RNs pursue this degree to work in primary care or specialty clinics. This is a significant salary jump, often into the $100,000+ range.

10-Year Outlook:
With a 6% job growth rate, the demand for RNs in Enid is secure. The aging population in Northwest Oklahoma will continue to drive the need for hospital and long-term care services. Hospitals are actively encouraging RNs to obtain certifications (e.g., CCRN, CEN) and BSNs. Investing in your education will pay off directly here. The outlook is stable, not explosive, which is perfect for someone seeking a long-term, predictable career.

The Verdict: Is Enid Right for You?

Deciding on Enid means weighing the trade-offs of a smaller city against the benefits of affordability and a tight-knit community.

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your $82,480 salary goes very far.	Limited Specialties: Fewer niche nursing roles than in a major metro.
Stable Job Market: 457 jobs and steady 6% growth.	Cultural & Dining Scene: Improving but still limited compared to OKC/Tulsa.
Short Commutes: 5-15 minutes is the norm for most.	Car-Dependent: Public transport is minimal; you'll need a reliable vehicle.
Sense of Community: You’ll know your colleagues and patients.	Limited Higher Ed: Fewer options for advanced degrees locally.
Strong Homeownership Potential: A realistic goal on a single RN salary.	Weather: Hot, windy summers and cold, windy winters.
Quality-of-Life Balance: Less stress, less traffic, more space.	Conservative Culture: Socially and politically, it’s a very red state.

Final Recommendation:
Enid is an excellent choice for the practical, career-focused RN. If your priority is financial stability, homeownership, a manageable work-life balance, and a slower pace of life, Enid delivers in spades. It’s especially well-suited for nurses with families who value community and low housing costs. However, if you crave the anonymity of a big city, a vast array of cultural activities, or highly specialized nursing fields, you may find Enid limiting. For the right person, it’s not just a place to work—it’s a place to build a life.

FAQs

1. I'm a new grad. Will I be able to find a job in Enid?
Yes, but be flexible. Both Integris and St. Mary’s run new grad residency programs, but they are competitive. Your best bet is to apply broadly (including Med/Surg and long-term care) and be open to night or weekend shifts to get your foot in the door. Once you have one year of experience, you'll have much more mobility.

2. What’s the typical shift like for an RN in Enid?
12-hour shifts are standard for hospital RNs, typically 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. or 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. This often means working three days a week, which is a huge perk. Clinic, school, and public health roles are generally 8-hour, Monday-Friday schedules.

3. How is the commute?
Excellent. Enid is not a traffic city. You can get from any major neighborhood to either hospital in under 20 minutes, even during peak times. The biggest commute challenge is weather-related (ice in winter), not congestion.

4. Is Enid a good place for a traveling nurse?
It can be. Staffing agencies often post contracts for Enid’s hospitals, especially during peak flu season or for seasonal needs. The low cost of living means your stipend goes a long way, making it a financially attractive assignment for travelers.

5. What is the nursing culture like at the local hospitals?
It’s generally collaborative and supportive. Because it’s a smaller community, you work closely with the same doctors and staff repeatedly, which builds strong professional relationships. It’s less hierarchical than some large academic centers, but also has fewer resources for cutting-edge research or trials.

This guide was compiled using data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Oklahoma Board of Nursing, and local market analysis.