Learnings About Nurse Hiring and Retention: Study Results from Over 400,000 Nurses
Key Findings from the 2025 State of US Nursing Report
Increased Commitment to the Profession
A significant 80% of nurses now plan to remain in the field until retirement, a notable rise from 55% in 2024. This shift suggests growing job satisfaction and a renewed dedication to the profession.
Persistent Staffing Shortages
Despite the positive trend in retention, staffing shortages remain a critical concern. An overwhelming 93% of nurses reported that staffing issues have worsened over the past year, with 73% identifying inadequate staffing as their top industry concern. McKnights Home Care+3PR Newswire+3Incredible Health+3
Compensation Challenges
Only 33% of nurses feel fairly compensated in their roles. Approximately 65% have considered transitioning to travel nursing positions, primarily for better pay. Fierce Healthcare+5New Jersey State Nurses Association+5PR Newswire+5New Jersey State Nurses Association+2PR Newswire+2Incredible Health+2
Rise in Sign-On Bonuses
To attract and retain talent, nearly half (48%) of job offers on the Incredible Health platform now include sign-on bonuses, averaging $11,767—a 14% increase from the previous year.
Mental Health Stabilization
After years of decline, nurses' mental health has shown signs of stabilization. The percentage of nurses reporting good mental health increased slightly from 25% in 2021 to 26% in 2024.
Generational Perspectives and AI Integration
The report reveals a generational divide regarding the future of nursing and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI).While some nurses are optimistic about AI's potential benefits, 64% express concerns about its impact on their roles and the industry.
Implications for Healthcare Employers
The findings underscore the importance of addressing staffing shortages, compensation disparities, and mental health support to enhance nurse retention. Healthcare organizations are encouraged to implement strategies such as offering competitive salaries, providing mental health resources, and embracing technological advancements thoughtfully to meet the evolving needs of the nursing workforce.
For more detailed insights, you can access the full 2023 State of US Nursing Report by Incredible Health here: Incredible Health
Explore current nursing job opportunities at: https://goodwork.world/explore-jobs
