Nursing in Hampshire
Find out about nursing in Hampshire – where nurses can find jobs, the hospitals they might work in, universities to study at, plus essential living information.
Hampshire is a large and well-connected county in South East England, offering a strong healthcare system, excellent transport links and a high quality of life. With a population of approximately 1.9 million people, Hampshire provides a wide range of opportunities for nurses across both urban and rural settings.
The county includes major cities such as Southampton and Portsmouth, as well as historic towns and rural areas, giving nurses access to diverse working environments and lifestyles.
Compared to London, Hampshire offers a more balanced cost of living while still providing access to major hospitals, specialist services and leading universities.
Where do nurses work in Hampshire?
Hampshire has a well-developed healthcare system with several major NHS trusts and hospitals.
Key employers include:
- University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust
- Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
- Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust
- Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust
Major hospitals include:
- Southampton General Hospital
- Queen Alexandra Hospital (Portsmouth)
- Royal Hampshire County Hospital (Winchester)
- Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital
University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust is one of the leading teaching hospital trusts in the UK, offering specialist services including:
- Cardiac and thoracic care
- Neurosciences
- Paediatric intensive care
- Organ transplantation
In addition to hospital roles, nurses can work in:
- Community and district nursing
- Mental health services
- Primary care and GP practices
- Private healthcare providers
- Residential and elderly care
Hampshire offers strong opportunities across both generalist and specialist nursing roles.
Where can aspiring nurses study near Hampshire?
Hampshire is home to several well-regarded universities offering nursing and healthcare courses.
Key institutions include:
- University of Southampton
- University of Portsmouth
The University of Southampton is particularly known for its research-led teaching and strong links to NHS trusts.
The University of Portsmouth offers a range of nursing programmes with a focus on practical skills and employability.
Students benefit from:
- Access to major teaching hospitals for placements
- Exposure to diverse clinical environments
- Strong graduate employment prospects
Courses typically combine academic learning with extensive clinical placements across Hampshire.
Where do nurses live in Hampshire?
Nurses in Hampshire live across a wide range of areas, depending on their workplace and lifestyle preferences.
Popular areas include:
- Southampton – a vibrant city with strong transport links and amenities
- Portsmouth – coastal living with a historic maritime setting
- Winchester – a highly desirable historic city with a high quality of life
- Basingstoke – a modern town popular with commuters
- Andover and surrounding rural areas – offering quieter living
Housing options include:
- City-centre apartments
- Suburban family homes
- Rural properties in villages and countryside
Many nurses choose suburban or semi-rural locations to balance affordability and commuting time.
What are the living costs for nurses in Hampshire?
Hampshire has a moderate to high cost of living compared to the UK average, though it is generally more affordable than London.
Typical costs include:
- Average house price: £300,000–£500,000
- Average rent: £1,000–£1,600 per month
- Shared accommodation: £600–£900 per month
Everyday expenses are in line with the South East of England.
For nurses, Hampshire offers a good balance between salary, cost of living and lifestyle quality.
Is travel easy in Hampshire?
Hampshire has excellent transport links both within the county and to London and other major cities.
Key transport options include:
- Rail services to London Waterloo and other destinations
- Major motorways including the M3, M27 and A34
- Bus services connecting towns and rural areas
Commute times vary but are generally manageable, particularly for those living near major transport routes.
What to do in Hampshire: lifestyle, culture and leisure
Hampshire offers a diverse lifestyle, combining urban amenities with access to countryside and coast.
Culture and attractions
The county is known for:
- The New Forest National Park
- Historic Winchester Cathedral
- The South Downs National Park
- Maritime heritage in Portsmouth
Outdoor activities such as walking, cycling and sailing are popular.
Nightlife and eating out
Hampshire has a varied social scene.
You’ll find:
- Restaurants offering a range of cuisines
- Bars and nightlife in Southampton and Portsmouth
- Traditional pubs in towns and villages
What are the school options in Hampshire?
Hampshire offers a wide range of schooling options:
- Numerous primary and secondary schools
- Grammar schools in some areas
- Independent and private schools
School standards are generally high, making the county popular with families.
Population and demographics in Hampshire
Key facts:
- Population: approximately 1.9 million
- Mix of urban, suburban and rural communities
- Growing population with strong commuter links
- Diverse demographics in larger cities
In summary: is Hampshire a good place to be a nurse?
Hampshire offers an excellent environment for nurses.
Key advantages include:
- Large NHS trusts and specialist hospitals
- Strong education and training opportunities
- High quality of life with access to coast and countryside
- Good transport links
Overall, Hampshire provides a strong balance between career development and lifestyle.




