Fort Lauderdale is in the middle of a healthcare transformation that’s changing the local economy and creating exciting new opportunities for those who want to make a difference in patient care. Hospitals, outpatient centers, and specialty clinics are expanding across Broward County to meet the needs of a growing and aging population. For aspiring nurses, this means more career paths, competitive pay, and lots of room for professional growth.
Below, learn how Fort Lauderdale’s healthcare boom is shaping the future of nursing and how you can prepare to take advantage of it.
A Snapshot of Fort Lauderdale’s Healthcare Boom
Fort Lauderdale and Broward County are in the middle of a major healthcare buildout supported by billions in capital investments. Here are some key highlights:
- Record Investments: HCA East Florida has committed $1.8 billion for hospital and facility projects across South Florida, including Fort Lauderdale.
- New Facilities: Broward Health is building its first large medical office project in more than 25 years, while Holy Cross Health is developing a $31 million outpatient and emergency center on Sunrise Boulevard.
- Expanding Systems: Memorial Healthcare System and Baptist Health are adding new free-standing ERs and outpatient centers to serve Broward’s growing population.
- Market Growth: Demand for medical office space and healthcare services continues to rise as more residents move to the area and as the population ages.
- Modernized Care: Hospitals and clinics are adopting telemedicine, predictive analytics, and AI to expand capacity and improve care delivery.
Together, these factors make Fort Lauderdale one of Florida’s fastest-growing healthcare regions, driving strong demand for qualified nursing professionals.
What Fort Lauderdale’s Healthcare Growth Means for Aspiring Nurses
1. Increased Job Opportunities
As new clinics, hospitals, and care centers open across Fort Lauderdale, the need for qualified nurses continues to rise. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady growth nationally for both registered nurses and licensed practical nurses through the next decade. Florida faces an even greater demand, with a recent report suggesting that the state could face a shortage of 59,000 nurses by 2035. This aligns with the Bureau of Labor Statistics, projecting 5% growth for registered nurses from 2024 to 2034 – which is faster than the average for all occupations. About 189,100 openings for registered nurses are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
As the need for trained nurses grows, local employers are actively seeking new talent to fill vital roles. Graduates from FVI School of Nursing & Technology have been hired by Holy Cross Health, Memorial Health System, and Pediatric Associates, demonstrating the direct path from nursing education to employment opportunities in this region.
2. Competitive Salaries and Benefits
When healthcare employers compete for nursing talent, students and graduates benefit. Across Fort Lauderdale, hospitals and clinics are offering attractive salaries, sign-on incentives, and comprehensive benefits packages to attract new nurses. Flexible scheduling options have also become more common, helping nurses balance their work and personal responsibilities.
This level of demand provides stability and career confidence for those entering the field in an entry-level capacity.
3. Diverse Work Environments
One of the greatest advantages of starting a nursing career in Fort Lauderdale is the range of professional settings available. Nurses here can find fulfilling roles in:
- Hospitals and surgical centers
- Pediatric and family care practices
- Rehabilitation and long-term care facilities
- Outpatient clinics and urgent care centers
- Home health and community-based organizations
FVI’s clinical partnerships expose students to these environments early in their training, helping them build confidence and real-world experience before graduation.
4. Career Advancement and Specialization
The expansion of healthcare facilities also means more opportunities for nurses to specialize and advance. Many nurses in Fort Lauderdale go on to focus on areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, emergency care, or leadership roles in nursing management.
Many local employers support continuing education through tuition reimbursement and professional development programs, helping nurses expand their credentials while working.
5. Education and Training Opportunities
Meeting the region’s growing need for qualified nurses starts with accessible, high-quality education. Local institutions such as FVI School of Nursing & Technology are training the next generation of healthcare professionals through flexible, career-focused programs.
FVI’s commitment to preparing students for success in their nursing careers is reflected in the fact that graduates consistently achieve high pass rates on the NCLEX, the nationwide test required for nursing licensure.
FVI offers a range of nursing programs in Florida, including:
- Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) — a pathway to Registered Nurse licensure
- Practical Nursing (PN) — preparation for Licensed Practical Nurse certification
- Medical Assistant and other allied health programs
With flexible day and evening class options to accommodate busy schedules and hybrid or online learning formats that make education more accessible, students can adapt their school schedules to fit their other life commitments.
Combined with personalized support, hands-on clinical training, and job placement guidance, graduates receive the preparation they need to enter the workforce with confidence. Financial aid is also available to those who qualify.
How FVI Can Help You Start Your Nursing Career
FVI School of Nursing & Technology is proud to be part of Fort Lauderdale’s healthcare expansion, connecting students directly to the region’s growing network of hospitals and clinics. The school’s student-centered approach emphasizes personal guidance, hands-on learning, and real relationships with employer partners across South Florida.
From dedicated mentors to flexible class schedules, FVI provides the support you need to move from classroom learning to professional success.
If you’re ready to start your nursing education, visit our Admissions page to apply now and take your next step toward a rewarding career in healthcare.
