considering relocating

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Hello all

I'm currently live in NJ and have worked as an ER nurse for 6 years but now currently work at a cardiology office. Dh and I have a one year old and are considering trying for another one next year. I've lived in Jersey all my life but its getting to be too expensive. Recently our property taxes went up and I feel like we work just to pay off all bills. When the second child comes along I would love to go part time or be a stay at home mom for a couple of years but I don't see us affording that. HUsband has an opportunity to get a promotion but it would mean relocating to oklahoma. All my family lives here. I know cost of living is cheaper in OK than NJ and I might have a chance to be a stay at home mom. It will be a big change. Was just wondering what is the pay for an RN with my number years of experience.

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.

What a coincidence. . . I was in Oklahoma City yesterday, although I live in Texas.

I have no idea about nursing pay rates in OK, although I've been told it is one of the most poorly-paying states in the union for nursing. However, this would be offset by the very affordable rents, real estate market, and lower cost of living.

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Specializes in med-surg 5 years geriatrics 12 years.

I live in Oklahoma and while the pay is lower than other states, the cost of living is lower as well. And although gas prices are thru the roof here too as of yesterday I paid $3.79/gal which is lower than many states at the moment. Most of the Tulsa area hospitals are needing nurses so you may be able to negotiate a pay that you feel is adequate for you. Some even will consider a relocation bonus; you will need to do your homework to decide if it would work for you. Good luck and welcome to Oklahoma.

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Specializes in CVICU.

One of my colleages recently moved from Pennsylvania to Tulsa. The hospital gave her a $7000 sign on bonus (before taxes of course), $1000 for relocation costs and they paid for the movers.

As for your pay rate, I have no idea :) I am a new graduate, so I am at the base rate right now. You would be above that so I don't even have a guess for you. The best thing would be to interview. Most hospitals will do phone interviews. I'm sure your pay depends on the hospital, shortages, the unit you apply to work on, day shift vs. night shift, etc.

The cost of living is cheaper in Tulsa. You can Google a "cost of living comparison calculator" which could be helpful to you. I am not sure how accurate they are, but it may assist you. I have used it before when my husband and I considered moving. I hope I helped in some way.

Good luck with whatever decision you make!

Whitter

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