New Grad RN: Should I stay in California?

[aliciaT2190]

Hi all,

I'm just looking for some advice in terms of the new grad job market in California, specifically in Los Angeles County. I've applied to countless new grad programs since June/July 2011, not only in LA county but in surrounding counties (Kern, San Bernardino, San Diego, Riverside counties, to be exact). I have my ADN, and am actively looking for a BSN program to complete my undergrad studies. I know the job market everywhere is pretty horrible, but I was curious if there are more opportunities out there in different states for new grad RNs, specifically Associate's degree holding RNs. Any information would be helpful! Thanks all!

[Nurse SMS, MSN, RN]

I have heard rumor on this board only that North Dakota needs nurses badly due to economic growth there. Pretty much everywhere else is saturated except in the very rural areas from the sounds of it. If you do decide to move, do not do so without a written job offer in hand with a firm start date. You can, of course, start applying while still living where you are and see if you get any response. Good luck.

[txrn2011]

after applying all over the country for over a year, I finally got a job in Texas (I'm from CA too). I tried so hard to get work anywhere in CA doing anything, and there is just very little opportunity for new grads there. I hated moving but I am ok with being here now, and it won't be forever so if you can be mobile just bite the bullet and get whatever you can wherever you can and go back later. I do have a friend that got a job in N Dakota and she did say they are hiring new grads there so thats an option, I do know that housing is scarce and expensive there, and pay is not the best. but hey, a job is a job, I would advise not holding out for CA because I think it really hurt to be out of school for so long and I think I forgot alot of stuff so get out and get employed anywhere you can as soon as possible.