Moving to Chicago!

melizerd, ASN, RN · Apr 30, 2015

I'm in WI so I only have general knowledge of the area. Chicago us a very competing nursing market, especially for new grads. While places may not say BSN required it can be harder to get a position without one.

The greater Chicago area is huge though so maybe posting in the IL forum will get you better response. Good luck!!

schnookimz · Apr 30, 2015

It will be VERY hard to find a hospital job as a new grad with no BSN in Chicago.

I had years of experience as a tech, a BA and an ADN and it took me hundreds of jobs and 5 months. Good luck!

Also Chicago is huge, are you thinking northside? South? City? Burbs?

ksauls01 · Apr 30, 2015

Hi guys! I am just looking for some general information about nursing in Chicago, I have a Bachelor's in a different field and will have an RN diploma in August. I have seen a lot hospitals that don't require a BSN (I plan on getting that in a year), but do ya'll have any advice on where to apply/live? Any advice appreciated! Thank you :)

ksauls01 · Apr 30, 2015

Thank you so much!!

ksauls01 · Apr 30, 2015

YIKES! That is kind of terrifying. I was thinking Logan square or Lincoln Park area?

happyinmyheart · Apr 30, 2015

Definitely get your BSN as soon as possible!

schnookimz · May 2, 2015

There will be a big price difference between Logan square and Lincoln park. A two bedroom apartment in Lincoln park could be 2000+ for a month. Logan square will be more reasonably priced, but has some sketchy areas. Sounds like you want north side so.....

If you have money to spend, check out Lincoln Park, southport corridor, wrigleyville, or lake view.

For something more reasonably priced---maybe Lincoln square or Andersonville.

A little farther out--Edison park, Norwood park. These areas might be good because I know resurrection medical center will hire with only an ADN and its close to here.

MrChicagoRN, RN · May 3, 2015

Not knowing what your interests are, or what type of environment you want to live and work in, it's hard to answer your questions.

However, Chicago is a very competitive market, and most hospitals around Chicago prefer (or require) a BSN.

For a list of hospitals in/around Chicago you can go to healthcare compare and search out hospitals. For example, there are 47 hospitals within 25 miles of downtown Chicago (60601)

MrChicagoRN, RN · May 4, 2015

Both nice areas, but can be pricey...and parking can be an issue.

Best to find the job first, then look for neighborhoods. That way you can find someplace that isn't an hour each way, or can maybe even use the extensive CTA buses and trains.