Jobs projected to grow the most in nursing—and how that compares to other health care roles
The aging trend in the United States shows that one out of every six citizens is now 65 or older, and this segment is expected to nearly double by 2060. This demographic shift is accompanied by a rise in chronic diseases, increasing the need for medical procedures and skilled healthcare workers. However, the U.S. faces a significant shortage of physicians and nurses, as demand surpasses supply. Nearly 100 million Americans live in areas with insufficient primary healthcare services. A 2021 report from the Association of American Medical Colleges predicts a shortfall of 38,000 to 124,000 physicians by 2034. Similarly, the nursing workforce is experiencing rapid changes, with many nurses retiring or leaving the field. According to a 2020 study by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, about 20% of nurses are already 65 or older. Advanced practice registered nurses, such as nurse midwives, nurse practitioners, and nurse anesthetists, are expected to grow by 40% from 2021 to 2031, reflecting a need for broader primary care services. These roles offer more clinical independence, improving healthcare delivery. Nursing job growth is projected to exceed that of other healthcare sectors, except for home health and personal care aides. Challenges in the home healthcare sector, like safety risks, low pay, and inadequate regulations, contribute to shortages. Reports indicate one in five home care workers has faced verbal abuse. Using data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics to identify nursing jobs with the highest projected growth from 2021 to 2031, comparing them to other healthcare roles expected to change in the next decade. These projections are subject to change due to unforeseen factors. Notable nursing roles anticipated for growth include:
#5. Registered nurses – Expected employment growth, 2021-2031: 6.2% (195,400 positions) – Compared to other healthcare roles: More jobs than physician assistants, physical therapist assistants, and occupational therapy assistants, but fewer than home health aides. The registered nurse workforce is set to reach 4.5 million by 2030, over a million more than in 2018. This rise is crucial to replace retiring baby boomer nurses. Registered nurses provide essential primary care across more than 30 settings.
#4. Licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses – Expected employment growth, 2021-2031: 6.3% (41,300 positions) – Compared to other healthcare roles: More jobs than physician assistants and physical therapist assistants, but significantly fewer than home health aides. With an aging population, these nurses are vital in patient care and communication across health settings.
#3. Nurse midwives – Expected employment growth, 2021-2031: 7.5% (600 positions) Nurse midwives offer care throughout a woman’s life, focusing on wellness and holistic practices. The increasing preference for home births among younger women drives the demand for midwives.
#2. Nurse anesthetists – Expected employment growth, 2021-2031: 11.8% (5,300 positions) These experts provide anesthesia, helping to reduce scheduling delays as more medical procedures are needed for an aging populace.
#1. Nurse practitioners – Expected employment growth, 2021-2031: 45.7% (112,700 positions) The high demand for nurse practitioners highlights the need for autonomous medical professionals. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many states eased restrictions, allowing nurse practitioners to treat patients independently—a trend likely to continue as more states grant them full practice rights.
