19 Nurse Jobs in Essex

Find out about nursing in Essex – where nurses can find jobs, the hospitals they might work in, universities to study at, plus essential living information.

Essex is a large and diverse county in the East of England, offering a strong healthcare infrastructure, a mix of urban and rural living, and excellent access to London. With a population of around 1.8 million people, Essex has consistent demand for healthcare services, making it an attractive destination for nurses at all stages of their careers.

The county combines busy towns, coastal communities and commuter hubs, giving nurses a wide choice of working environments and lifestyles. Its proximity to London also allows access to major teaching hospitals and specialist services, while still offering a more affordable cost of living.

From employment opportunities and education to lifestyle and affordability, this guide provides a complete overview for nurses considering Essex.

Where do nurses work in Essex?

Essex has a well-established healthcare system with multiple NHS trusts and private providers operating across the county.

Key employers include:

Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust
East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust
Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust

Major hospitals include:

Broomfield Hospital (Chelmsford)
Basildon University Hospital
Colchester Hospital
Southend University Hospital

Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust is one of the largest trusts in the region, providing acute and community services across several sites.

In addition to hospital-based roles, nurses can find opportunities in:

Community and district nursing teams
GP surgeries and primary care networks
Mental health services
Private hospitals and clinics
Residential and nursing care homes

There is ongoing demand for nurses in areas such as elderly care, mental health, community services and acute hospital settings

Where can aspiring nurses study near Essex?

Essex offers access to several well-regarded universities providing nursing and healthcare courses.

Key institutions include:

University of Essex
Anglia Ruskin University (Chelmsford campus)

The University of Essex offers a range of nursing programmes with strong links to local NHS trusts, ensuring students gain practical experience through placements.

Anglia Ruskin University is known for its healthcare training facilities and emphasis on hands-on clinical learning.

Students benefit from:

Access to a wide range of placement settings
Experience across both urban and rural healthcare environments
Strong employability prospects after graduation

Courses typically combine academic study with clinical placements throughout Essex and surrounding areas.

Where do nurses live in Essex?

Nurses in Essex live across a wide range of locations, depending on their workplace, lifestyle preferences and budget.

Popular areas include:

Chelmsford – a central location with strong transport links and modern amenities
Colchester – a historic town with more affordable housing options
Basildon – convenient for London commuters and close to major hospitals
Southend-on-Sea – a coastal town offering a relaxed lifestyle
Brentwood – popular with professionals due to proximity to London

Many nurses choose to live outside central London and commute, benefiting from lower housing costs and more space.

Housing options include:

Modern apartments in town centres
Suburban housing estates
Coastal properties in seaside towns

What are the living costs for nurses in Essex?

Essex offers a more affordable alternative to London, though costs can still be relatively high compared to other parts of the UK.

Typical costs include:

Average house price: £300,000–£450,000
Average rent: £900–£1,500 per month
Shared accommodation: £500–£800 per month

Everyday expenses such as groceries, utilities and transport are generally in line with the UK average.

For nurses, Essex provides a balance between earning potential and cost of living, particularly for those working in London but living in the county.

Is travel easy in Essex?

Essex has strong transport links, particularly for commuting into London.

Key transport options include:

Direct rail services to London Liverpool Street
Major roads including the A12, A13 and M25
Local bus services connecting towns and rural areas

Commute times vary but are generally manageable, especially for those living near rail stations.

What to do in Essex: lifestyle, culture and leisure

Essex offers a varied lifestyle, combining coastal living, historic towns and modern amenities.

Culture and attractions

The county is known for:

Colchester Castle and Roman heritage
Coastal attractions such as Southend Pier
Nature reserves and countryside walks
Historic villages and market towns

Nightlife and eating out

Essex has a growing food and social scene.

You’ll find:

Restaurants offering a wide range of international cuisines
Popular nightlife areas in Chelmsford and Southend
Traditional pubs and modern bars

What are the school options in Essex?

Essex offers a wide range of schooling options:

Numerous primary and secondary schools
Grammar schools in areas such as Chelmsford and Colchester
Independent schools and academies

School quality varies by area, but there are many highly rated options.

Population and demographics in Essex

Key facts:

Population: approximately 1.8 million
Mix of urban, suburban and rural communities
Growing commuter population
Diverse demographics, particularly in larger towns

In summary: is Essex a good place to be a nurse?

Essex offers an excellent combination of career opportunities, location and lifestyle.

Key advantages include:

Strong NHS presence and varied job opportunities
Close proximity to London
More affordable living than central London
Wide range of lifestyle options

For nurses seeking a balance between career progression and quality of life, Essex is a highly attractive choice.