healthcare

5 Reasons Why Columbus, Ohio is an Excellent Destination for Registered Nurses

Goodwork Team

30 Apr 2025 — 2 min read

Columbus, Ohio, is emerging as a premier destination for registered nurses, offering a blend of professional opportunities and a high quality of life. With its affordable living costs, vibrant cultural scene, and a robust healthcare infrastructure, Columbus provides an ideal environment for nurses seeking both career growth and personal fulfillment.

Top Healthcare Employers in Columbus

The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center (OSUWMC)
OSUWMC is recognized as the top adult hospital in Central Ohio, nationally ranked in multiple specialties including cancer, cardiology, and urology . The medical center is affiliated with the Ohio State University College of Medicine, offering nurses opportunities for advanced education and research involvement.

Nationwide Children's Hospital
As one of the nation's leading pediatric hospitals, Nationwide Children's is nationally ranked in 11 pediatric specialties . The hospital is also recognized by Forbes as one of "America's Best Employers".

OhioHealth
OhioHealth is a not-for-profit healthcare system comprising 15 hospitals and over 200 ambulatory sites across Central Ohio . The system is known for its commitment to community health and has been involved in initiatives like the "Agree to Agree" campaign to prevent youth gun violence.

Mount Carmel Health System
Part of Trinity Health, Mount Carmel operates four hospitals in the Columbus area. Mount Carmel East and Mount Carmel Grove City have been recognized as High Performing Hospitals by U.S. News & World Report for various procedures and conditions.

Educational Opportunities

Columbus is home to several institutions offering nursing education:

The Ohio State University College of Nursing
Offers undergraduate and graduate nursing programs, including specialties in nurse practitioner and nurse midwifery.
Mount Carmel College of Nursing
Provides a range of nursing programs from bachelor's to doctoral levels, with a focus on clinical excellence and leadership.
Columbus State Community College
Offers associate degree nursing programs and has partnered with OhioHealth to expand healthcare education, aiming to double the number of healthcare graduates in the next decade.

Quality of Life in Columbus

Columbus housing is affordable, and basic necessities like groceries and utilities are less expensive than many other major U.S. urban centers, resulting in a living cost around 12% lower than the national average.

Explore Nursing Opportunities

For nurses seeking to advance their careers in a dynamic and supportive environment, Columbus presents a wealth of opportunities. To explore current job openings and connect with leading healthcare employers in Columbus, visit: https://goodwork.world/explore-jobs.

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