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High ShortageUpdated January 2026

Occupational Therapists Market Trends in Georgia

Real-time hiring demand, salary trends, and employment projections for nursing professionals in Georgia. Data-driven insights to help you make informed career and recruiting decisions.

Active Job Openings
15,200
+1,216 from last month
Total Occupational Therapists
98,000
Licensed in Georgia
Job Growth Rate
16.5%
Annual projected growth
Average Salary
$76,000
Median annual compensation

2026 Nursing Market Overview: Georgia

Georgia is experiencing a high nursing shortage with approximately 15,200 unfilled nursing positions across the state. The demand-to-supply ratio indicates a low competition environment for nursing job seekers, making this an opportune time for career advancement.

The state currently employs 98,000 licensed occupational therapists, with projections showing growth to 178,850 nurses by 2030. This 16.5% annual growth rate is significantly above the national average of 9%.

Healthcare facilities in Georgia are actively recruiting nurses with competitive compensation packages, sign-on bonuses averaging $8,000-$15,000, and enhanced benefits to attract qualified candidates in this competitive market.

Key Factors Driving Nursing Demand

1
Population growth
Contributing to increased demand
2
Healthcare expansion
Contributing to increased demand
3
Rural access gaps
Contributing to increased demand
4
Aging population
Contributing to increased demand

Top Cities for Nursing Jobs in Georgia

1
Atlanta
42,000 nurses employed
6,800
open positions
2
Augusta
8,500 nurses employed
1,400
open positions
3
Savannah
7,200 nurses employed
1,200
open positions
4
Columbus
4,500 nurses employed
750
open positions
5
Macon
3,800 nurses employed
620
open positions

5-Year Employment Projections (2026-2030)

Projected Workforce
178,850
+80,850 nurses
Total Job Openings
83,600
over 5 years
Replacement Needs
14,700
due to retirements

Top Employers Hiring

#1
Emory Healthcare
#2
Piedmont Healthcare
#3
Wellstar Health System
#4
Grady Health System
#5
Northside Hospital

Licensure Requirements

  • Georgia RN License
  • Compact License eligible
  • BLS Certification
Nurse-to-Patient Ratio:
Not mandated

Quick Market Stats

Demand Index16%
CompetitionLow
Avg Time to Hire21 days
Sign-on BonusesCommon

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Frequently Asked Questions: Nursing in Georgia

What is the nursing shortage like in Georgia?

Georgia is experiencing a high nursing shortage with15,200 unfilled positions. The state projects needing83,600 new nurses over the next 5 years.

What is the average nurse salary in Georgia?

The median annual salary for occupational therapists in Georgia is $76,000. Salaries vary by specialty, experience, and location within the state.

Which cities have the most nursing jobs?

Atlanta leads with 6,800 open positions, followed by Augusta (1,400 openings) and Savannah (1,200 openings).

What are the licensure requirements?

To practice as a nurse in Georgia, you need: Georgia RN License, Compact License eligible, BLS Certification. The state participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact.

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