Health Care Jobs Seen as Recession-Proof

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According to a Wall Street Journal report, health care jobs, especially nursing and advanced nursing roles, have become the most dependable job engine in the U.S. as the population ages and medical spending increases. Median pay for registered nurses is $93,600, nearly double the overall U.S. median, and can reach $132,050 for advanced-practice nurses. Federal projections show employment for advanced-degree nurses growing 35% from 2024 to 2034, compared with 3% for all occupations.

Why it matters

As traditional manufacturing and office jobs become less stable, health care jobs, particularly in nursing, are seen as a reliable path to a comfortable middle-class income. The aging population and rising medical spending are driving strong demand for nurses and advanced nursing roles, making them relatively recession-proof compared to other industries.

The details

The Journal profiles several nurses and nurse practitioners who are earning high salaries, buying homes, and enjoying financial security, even as some sectors face economic uncertainty. However, the story also delves into issues like burnout and strikes that affect the nursing profession.

• Federal projections show employment for advanced-degree nurses growing 35% from 2024 to 2034.