Registered nurse jobs Delaware are always in high demand Delaware may be one of the smallest states in the U.S., but when it comes to healthcare opportunities, it plays a big role. With world-class hospitals, long-term care facilities, and a growing retirement community, Delaware offers excellent registered nurse jobs Delaware (RNs). Whether you are a new graduate seeking your first role or an experienced RN looking for higher earning potential, Delaware has plenty to offer.
Key Takeaways
- Delaware’s healthcare sector continues to expand, creating steady demand for registered nurses in 2025.
- Average RN salaries in Delaware are competitive, with opportunities for career growth in hospitals, clinics, and telehealth.
- New Castle County offers the highest concentration of healthcare jobs, while Sussex County is seeing growth due to retirement communities.
- RNs can explore diverse registered nurse jobs Delaware in critical care, pediatrics, geriatrics, mental health, and community health programs.
- Delaware’s location between New York, New Jersey, Maryland, and Pennsylvania makes it convenient for nurses looking for regional flexibility.
Why Delaware is a Top Destination for Registered Nurses
Delaware combines small-town charm with access to major healthcare hubs in the Northeast. With nationally recognized facilities like ChristianaCare, Nemours Children’s Health, and Beebe Healthcare, RNs can pursue both generalist and specialist roles. Additionally, demand for travel nurses and agency-based nurses has surged, allowing for flexible work schedules and competitive pay packages.
The Delaware Board of Nursing also provides a straightforward process for licensure, particularly for nurses moving from compact states under the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). This means if you’re licensed in another NLC member state, you can work in Delaware without additional hurdles.
Registered nurse jobs Delaware and salary trends
If salary is an important factor in your C2C job in USA search, Delaware will not disappoint. According to the most recent workforce data:
- Average Annual Salary for RNs in Delaware: $83,000 – $96,000
- Entry-Level Salary (New Graduates): Around $65,000 annually
- Experienced RN Salary: Up to $110,000+ depending on specialization and location
- Highest Paying Counties: New Castle and Sussex, due to higher demand in hospitals and senior care facilities
These earnings are competitive compared to neighboring states like Pennsylvania and Maryland, but with lower living costs in many Delaware towns.
Work Settings for registered nurse jobs Delaware
1. Hospitals and Medical Centers
Large healthcare systems, especially ChristianaCare in Newark and Wilmington, are among the largest employers of RNs. They often hire for specialties such as cardiac care, trauma units, oncology, and emergency services.
2. Long-Term Care and Senior Living Facilities
With a significant number of retirees moving to Delaware, the demand for geriatric nurses and long-term care specialists has grown substantially, particularly in Sussex County.
3. Travel and Contract Nursing
Delaware has become a hub for travel nurse assignments due to staffing shortages. These positions often pay higher wages and include housing stipends.
4. Community Health Programs
Public health initiatives, vaccination programs, and community outreach centers frequently hire RNs to serve vulnerable populations.
5. Telehealth Roles
As telemedicine continues to grow, many Delaware RNs now work in hybrid or fully remote care positions, handling virtual consultations and patient education.
Education and Licensing Requirements
To get a registered nurse jobs Delaware, candidates must complete approved education and licensure steps.
- Education Pathways: ADN, BSN, or accelerated nursing programs. A BSN is increasingly preferred by larger hospitals.
- Exam Requirements: Must pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
- Licensure: Apply through the Delaware Board of Nursing. Nurses from other NLC states can work under multi-state licensure.
- Continuing Education: Nurses must fulfill CE requirements to maintain active licensure.
In-Demand Nursing Specialties in Delaware
- Critical Care (ICU/ER) – High-demand due to increased patient volume.
- Pediatrics – Nemours Children’s Health remains a top employer.
- Geriatric Nursing – Rising need in senior living centers and home care services.
- Oncology Nursing – Expanding opportunities with research-based hospitals.
- Mental Health and Behavioral Nursing – Shortages have increased openings in psychiatric facilities.
Job Market Outlook for RNs in Delaware (2025 and Beyond)
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady growth for registered nurse jobs Delaware and nationwide, and Delaware aligns with this trend. Major factors:
- Aging Population: Growing senior population requires more acute and long-term care.
- Staffing Shortages: Hospitals continue to hire aggressively to address nurse-to-patient ratio challenges.
- Telehealth Expansion: More nurses are needed in hybrid care models.
- Regional Mobility: Many nurses choose Delaware because of its proximity to larger metro areas like Philadelphia and Baltimore.
Tips for Landing a registered nurse jobs Delaware
- Build a Strong Resume: Highlight patient care experience, certifications (ACLS, PALS), and electronic health records (EHR) skills.
- Network with Recruiters: Delaware staffing agencies regularly work with RNs for permanent and contract placements.
- Consider Specializations: Nurses with certifications in critical care, oncology, or wound care often receive higher salaries.
- Explore Compact Licensure: If you hold an RN license in another compact state, you can easily transition to work in Delaware.
- Stay Updated: Join professional associations like the Delaware Nurses Association (DNA) to keep up with opportunities and legislative updates.
Best Delaware Cities for RN Job Opportunities
- Wilmington – Largest city with top employers like ChristianaCare and Nemours.
- Newark – College town with a growing healthcare workforce.
- Dover – State capital with a growing need for hospital and community health nurses.
- Middletown & Smyrna – Expanding suburban healthcare facilities.
- Lewes & Rehoboth Beach – High demand for geriatric and seasonal care nurses in coastal areas.
Conclusion
Delaware is a powerful career destination for registered nurses who want competitive pay, excellent training opportunities, and the chance to work in diverse healthcare settings. From hospitals to travel nursing assignments, the state offers flexible pathways to build a rewarding nursing career. With healthcare demand projected to grow steadily, RNs in Delaware will remain in high demand well into the future.
FAQs
What is the average salary for registered nurses in Delaware?
The average salary for RNs ranges between $83,000 and $96,000 annually, with higher salaries for specialized roles.
Do I need a Delaware-specific license to work as a nurse?
No, if you have a multi-state license under the Nurse Licensure Compact. Otherwise, you must apply through the Delaware Board of Nursing.
Are there part-time or travel nursing opportunities in Delaware?
Yes, travel and agency-based nursing are increasingly popular due to staffing shortages, offering flexible options and higher pay.
Which hospitals are the biggest employers of nurses in Delaware?
ChristianaCare, Nemours Children’s Health, Bayhealth Medical Center, and Beebe Healthcare are leading employers.
Is Delaware a good state for new graduate nurses?
Yes, new grads benefit from structured residency programs in Delaware hospitals and ample opportunities in long-term care facilities.
