best cities for travel nursing 2023

Exploring the Best Places To Travel Nurse: The Top Cities for Adventurous Nurses in 2024

by Trusted Nurse Staffing | Feb 12, 2024 | News | 0 comments

Traveling as a nurse gives you the freedom to go where you want while making good money, new friends, and memories. 

Maybe you’re interested in pursuing travel nursing or perhaps you’re a travel nurse looking for the next best city to work in. Either way, you want to know what the best travel nurse destinations are.

With endless opportunities and new sights to see, your head is spinning at all the possibilities. Don’t know where to start? No worries. Let’s break down the best places to work as a travel nurse one city at a time. 

Table of Contents

What makes a destination a “top city” for travel nurses, the best places to travel nurse in the united states by region, top 9 cities for travel nurses in the western united states, 5 of the best travel nurse locations in the eastern united states, 5 of the best places to travel nurse in the central united states, the 5 best places to travel nurse outside of the contiguous united states, factors that may influence the city you choose for your next travel assignment, select the best travel nurse locations for your next assignment with trusted nurse staffing .

With all the benefits that travel nursing offers, it can be an easy decision to become one. Now comes the hard part — deciding where to go.

Travel nurse locations and jobs are available across the country, but the assignments available will depend on:

• The facility’s current staffing needs
• Your qualifications for certain assignments
• Personal preference

You can start by making a list of what you might want or not want when it comes to the city you will be working in. Once you have an idea of the perfect travel city for you, you can begin checking if it is available to work in. Pronto is an excellent way to find the best places to travel nurse for you.

So what makes a destination a top city for travel nurses? 

Some of the top destinations have these five things in common: 

• Licensing requirements
• Attractions 
• Cost of living
• Transportation options 

#1: San Diego, California

Maybe you’re interested in quintessential California beach living — picture this: waves perfect for surfing, shops bordering the beach, and hip new bars.

Or maybe you’re more interested in the quality of life and relaxed atmosphere that San Diego provides. As one of the safest large cities in the United States and over 190 communal and neighborhood parks, San Diego is a haven for safety and relaxation.  

Either way, San Diego should be at the top of your travel nurse destination list, making the cut for one of the top cities for travel nurses. 

Travel nurses love visiting local attractions like: 

• San Diego Zoo 
• Balboa Park
• USS Midway Museum; and
• Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market

But it’s more than just the sights and scenes. San Diego has much to offer those focused on their nursing careers!

With around 30 hospitals in the city alone, there’s no shortage of nursing contracts available. 

While traffic can be an issue in the area, travel nurses have many options for getting to and from work. Whether in the carpool lane with a coworker, riding the bus, or cruising the freeway, you can count on a beautiful drive through the area. 

California travel nurses make an average of $1,540 a week , which is higher than the national average . 

The additional benefit of picking up a nursing contract in San Diego? California requires (by law) facilities to keep appropriate nurse-to-patient ratios throughout all units. Instead of feeling run-down and overworked while providing minimal care to your patients, California’s law helps nurses ensure they are providing proper care.  

#2: Seattle, Washington

Another destination with low patient ratios and above-average pay is Seattle, Washington. Travel nurses in the area make an average of $1,574 per week . 

But the pay isn’t the only thing bringing travel nurses to the area. Although Washington isn’t a part of the NLC , it brings its own benefits. Seattle is home to over 15 hospitals, so you’re bound to find a contract that meets your needs. 

What else makes Seattle a top city for travel nurses? 

It could be the food, as Pike Place Market is a foodie’s paradise. Or it may have to do with the endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Lake Washington, Mount Rainier, and Alki Beach are just a few hotspots our travel nurses visit regularly. 

Did you know Seattle, Washington was ranked #1 for America’s most Hygge Cities? Hygge is the Danish concept of coziness, well-being, and contentment. So if you welcome “sweater weather,” warm drinks by a fire, and liberal use of blankets, candles, and comfort, Seattle is sure to be your top travel nurse location. 

Great pay, great food, and superb views. What isn’t to love about this travel nursing destination? 

#3: Denver, Colorado

Outdoor enthusiasts, Denver is calling. In reality, some might say Denver, Colorado, offers it all. 

Travel nurses on assignment in Denver can enjoy: 

• Sporting events galore (Check out the Broncos, Nuggets, or the Rockies.)
• The Red Rocks Amphitheater (It’s one of the most famous music venues in the world.)
• Denver Botanic Gardens; and
• A little bit of everything Denver has to do at RiNo

Maybe you’re not too invested in the outdoors but have heard of Denver’s diverse food and drink culture . 

Whatever your flavor is, Denver is bound to have it. With hundreds of restaurants, dozens of wineries and distilleries, and many ice creameries, this city will have your stomach full and your taste buds stated. 

Getting around in Denver is easy with affordable public transportation options. Travel nurses can use the light rail system, rent a motorized scooter or bike, or catch the bus. It’s the perfect location for travel nurses who like to stay active, even on their way to work. 

Colorado is also a part of the NLC, making it easy for travel nurses with multi-state licenses to start working as quickly as they arrive in the area. 

Travel nurses can expect an average salary of $1,433 per week working here. 

#4: Phoenix, Arizona

Arizona has a lot to offer travel nurses. The average salary for traveling nurses in Phoenix, Arizona is $1,409 a week . 

Here, you’ll find mountain ranges, palm trees, lakes, rivers, and painted sunsets — all in a single state. 

One of the best cities to live in Arizona is Phoenix , the state’s capital city. Phoenix’s economy is thriving, offers many amenities, and the nightlife is alive and well. 

Check out just a few of the many things to do in or around Phoenix:

• Desert Botanical Garden
• Camelback Mountain
• Phoenix Art Museum
• Hole-in-the-Rock
• The Grand Canyon

This guide breaks these down and many more of the top things to do and see.

Do you like sunshine? According to data compiled by the National Climatic Data Center , Phoenix basks in sunshine more often than any other major metropolitan area in the U.S. The sun shines on Phoenix during 85 percent of its daylight hours

Professionally, what can you expect from this destination? Arizona is part of the NLC, so getting started on assignments is pretty painless for travel nurses with multi-state licenses. 

#5: Portland, Oregon

It pays great to be a travel nurse. With an average weekly salary of $1,913, Portland is a profitable travel nurse destination. But that isn’t the only thing that makes Portland, OR, so great. 

Portland is home to a diverse biome and an even more diverse culture. 

Breathe in the fresh air and take in all that Portland has to offer. Investigate one of Portland’s many haunted attractions and take the Haunted Shanghai Tunnel Tour. Enjoy tax-free shopping in the Rose district. Visit one of Portland’s various gardens like the:

• Leach Botanical Garden
• Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden 
• Lan Su Chinese Garden 

Do you like beer? Portland is said to have more microbreweries per capita than any other city in the world. There’s also Powell’s City of Books, which is the world’s largest independently owned bookstore. 

With so much to offer, Portland is a great destination for travel nurses or anyone in general. According to recent studies conducted in the U.S. News and World Report, the city of Portland was ranked the 6th best place to live in the nation.

#6: Salem, Oregon

The average salary of a travel nurse in Salem, OR is $1,812 per week .

Do you consider yourself a foodie? Located right in the center of the Willamette Valley, Salem is a mecca for farm-to-table living and eating. 

The region produces some of the best wines, hazelnuts, and other food-lover favorites in the entire Western Hemisphere. Salem is also famously nicknamed the “Cherry City” because of its past importance in the cherry-growing industry. 

If you’re a travel nurse who loves the outdoors, then Salem is for you. 

The mountains, the coast, or larger cities like Eugene and Portland are all about an hour away. You also can experience hiking trips to Mount Hood or day trips to Bend on your days off.

A few of the top things to check out include:

• Riverfront City Park
• Enchanted Forest
• Elsinore Theatre 
• Willamette Heritage Center; and
• Cascades Gateway Park

In addition, Salem is known for its great coffee shops — a must for a travel nurse who loves to drink coffee. 

#7: Boulder, Colorado

Boulder, Colorado, has often topped lists of the happiest cities in America. 

Boulder offers breathtaking scenery, amazing weather, a thriving food scene, a Hallmark-worthy downtown, and enough outdoor activities to keep any travel nurse busy on off days.

A huge perk for a travel nurse is that you can rely on public transportation. 

Just a few things to do during your assignment include:

• Checking out live music at the historic Boulder Theatre
• Visiting The Flatirons  
• Seeing the Boulder History Museum
• Browsing the Boulder County Farmers Market; and
• Hiking through Eldorado Canyon State Park 

As mentioned before, Colorado is part of the NLC, so those nurses with multi-state licenses should have no problem getting started at a healthcare facility in Boulder. 

The average salary for travel nurses in Boulder, Colorado is $1,514 per week . 

#8: Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles is known for its Mediterranean climate, ethnic diversity, and of course — Hollywood .

L.A. is one of the most famous cities in the world, and any travel nurse would have a hard time running out of things to do during an assignment.

You can eat your heart out, do some star gazing, explore the ample parks, or just be a beach bum on your days off. 

Make sure to add these must-dos to your travel list:

• Drive around the Palos Verdes Peninsula 
• Have tacos at Grand Central Market
• Bike the Strand
• Take in a drive-in movie
• Visit Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive; and 
• Walk the Santa Monica Pier

The average salary of travel nurses in Los Angeles is $1,658 a week . Another fantastic attribute that makes this city a great travel nurse destination is its nationally ranked hospitals such as:

• Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
• UCLA Medical Center
• Keck Medical Center of USC

#9: Las Vegas, Nevada

Travel nurses craving a faster pace and more lively night scene may want to consider a travel-nursing assignment in Sin City.  

Not interested in the vibes the strip of Vegas offers? 

Travel nurses love checking out the sites nearby, including:  

• Red Rock National Park 
• The Mob Museum
• The Grand Canyon; and

Aside from always having something to do — such as shows, restaurants, and historic sites galore — Vegas is a top spot for those nurses who want to make a difference in the community. 

Vegas struggles to keep up with the demand for nurses, so finding a position in the area certainly isn’t a struggle for many travel nurses. The average salary ranges from $1,218 to $1,779 per week in Las Vegas. 

With the Trusted Nurse Staffing Pronto job search, you can enter your ideal travel nurse assignment location and find jobs around those areas. 

Plus, you’ll always have the backing of our top-notch staff to help you design the assignment you’ve been looking for.

#1: New York City, New York 

The Big Apple. The City That Never Sleeps. Gotham. 

Whatever you call it, New York City is known as a great destination for experiences, nightlife, and rich history.

You can truly experience in all in New York, like:

• Attending Broadway shows 
• Strolling through Central Park 
• Standing in Times Square 
• Boating to the Statue of Liberty; and 
• Taking walking food tours 

Are you looking to make some impressive marks on your resume? New York City is home to some of the best hospitals in the country including:

• Mount Sinai Hospital
• NYU Langone Hospital
• New York Presbyterian Hospital
• North Shore University Hospital

The cost of living in the Big Apple may be high, but it pays well to be a travel nurse in New York City. The average travel nurse’s salary is $1,958 per week .  

#2: Orlando, Florida

Central Florida contains over 349 hospitals, with some being some of the top medical research facilities in the country — the University of Central Florida Medical School is one example. 

No matter your specialty, travel nurses have a wide variety of opportunities in the Sunshine State. 

Aside from career opportunities, there are numerous reasons Orlando ranks in the top 100 places to live in the country. 

From its booming economy to its unlimited sights, it’s no wonder Orlando makes the cut for the top cities for travel nurses! 

Travel nurses can enjoy: 

• Visiting Disney World
• Swimming with dolphins
• Exploring Lake Eola Park; and 
• Sipping drinks at M Lounge

Plus, with so much to do and so many sites to see, Orlando, Florida, may be the perfect place to start travel nursing with a friend ! Make memories, share experiences, and build your resumes together. 

The average travel nurse’s salary in Orlando is $1,403 per week . 

#3: Boston, Massachusetts

The average travel nursing salary in Boston, Massachusetts is $1,664 per week . 

Boston is home to some of the most prestigious hospitals and universities, including: 

• Boston Medical Center
• Massachusetts General Hospital; and
• Brigham and Women’s Hospital

This makes Boston a wonderful place for nurses looking to make higher salaries, enhance their resumes, and gain experience with some of the top physicians.

Boston’s welcoming atmosphere instantly makes it feel like home to many travel nurses. While the city has a high population, it is still reasonably compact and quite walkable, making it ideal for those looking to get to and from work easily. 

The historic sites of the city may also be the reason so many travel nurses enjoy contracts in the area, like: 

• Boston Massacre Memorial
• Central Burying Ground; and
• The Paul Revere House

Red Sox fans — and baseball fans alike — get excited! Fenway Park is one of the many favorite parts of this travel nursing destination. 

To begin your search for a Boston travel nurse assignment, create your free Pronto profile. The job search then finds you available assignment opportunities in Boston — all without the need for a recruiter. 

#4: Richmond, Virginia

The average travel nurse salary in Richmond, Virginia is $1,459 per week . 

If you’re a travel nurse who loves history, then Richmond, Virginia, might be the assignment you’re looking for. 

Richmond is known for its rich history, local cuisine, and amazing city views from the James River. It’s been rated as one of the 100 best places to live .

Richmond offers so much to see and experience such as:

• Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
• American Civil War Museum
• Hardywood Park Craft Brewery
• RVA Trolley
• The Edgar Allan Poe Museum
• Richmond food tour; and
• James River

Richmond is a great travel nurse location for nurses who are looking to work in a nationally ranked children’s hospital like the VCU Medical Center .

#5: Atlanta, Georgia

Southern charm, hospitality, and above-average nursing salaries — it’s no surprise why Atlanta is one of the top cities on the East Coast for travel nurses. 

Atlanta travel nursing assignments offer nurses the chance to explore an array of activities, including visiting: 

• The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site
• Centennial Olympic Park
• Fox Theatre; and
• Piedmont Park 

Atlanta’s unique public transportation system, MARTA, makes it easy for travel nurses to get to and from work or activities via the transit rail system. 

#1: Dallas, Texas

Everything is bigger in Texas. 

And that’s true for the city of Dallas. The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex is made of 10 major cities and 13 counties — the largest metropolitan area in the southern United States. 

The number of people moving into the area may be a pro or a con for you. Either way, Dallas is booming. 

There’s always something for a travel nurse to do in Dallas, such as:

• The AT&T Performing Arts Center for theater, opera, or dance
• Live music venues such as Adair’s Saloon or The Bomb Factory
• The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden; or
• The Dallas Arts District

#2: Omaha, Nebraska

“Flyover Country” isn’t the first destination many travel nurses think of as they create their list of dream destinations, but it certainly has its perks. 

With a population of around 475,000 and home to over 100 hospitals, Omaha provides travel nurses with various opportunities to meet their career goals. 

Nebraska is also a member of the NLC, so multi-state license holders can breathe easy knowing they have one less thing to check off their to-do lists when arriving. 

One of the biggest perks of heading to Omaha for your next assignment is the state’s low cost of living, with housing costs below the national average . 

Travel nurses can enjoy the state’s most populous city by: 

• Taking trips to the historic Old Market
• Visiting the Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium
• Hiking Fontenelle Forest; or
• Being in two places at one time by visiting the Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge

The average travel nursing salary in Omaha Nebraska is $1,405 per week . 

#3: Kansas City, Missouri

The average travel nurse salary in Kansas City, MO is $1,799 per week . 

One of the biggest perks of working as a travel nurse in Kansas City, Missouri, is the lower housing expenses, easygoing feel, and endless career opportunities. 

Often referred to as an “urban-meets-suburban” town, Kansas City isn’t lacking in attractions. From world-class barbeque to jazz music players — there’s a bit of charm everywhere you go . 

In Kansas City, you can enjoy delicious barbeque, an enthralling music scene, and a booming sports culture. This makes good old KC a universal travel nurse destination for travel nurses of all types. 

Travel nurses can take in the sights, enjoy all four seasons, and help a community dealing with nursing shortages regularly . 

#4: Austin, Texas

From world-class museums to a lively music scene and plenty of places to eat and drink , it’s no surprise Austin is quickly becoming a favorite of travel nurses. 

You might try:

• Floating the Guadalupe and San Marcos rivers
• Checking out the Congress Bridge bats
• Renting a boat on Lake Travis
• Paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake
• Taking a swim in Barton Springs
• Shopping on Congress and buying a pair of cowboy boots at the iconic Allens Boots

The average travel nurse salary in Austin, TX is $1,452 per week .

#5: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Known for its “cowboy culture and capitol complex,” OKC sits along Route 66 and boasts plenty of historic, outdoor, and hospitable spots for travel nurses to explore. 

Don’t miss: 

• Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
• Scissortail Park
• First Americans Museum
• Bricktown Water Taxi
• Myriad Botanical Gardens
• Factory Obscura’s Mix-Tape
• Oklahoma City Thunder Basketball
• Oklahoma City Zoo’s Sanctuary Asia
• Conestoga Wagons & Teepees at Orr Family Farm
• National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
• Oklahoma City Museum of Art
• Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center
• Stockyards City

With so much to do in Oklahoma City, you’ll have plenty of time to make new memories and friends at this top destination for travel nurses. 

The average travel nurse’s salary in Oklahoma City, OK is $1,676 per week . 

#1: Maui, Hawaii

Who doesn’t have traveling to Hawaii on their bucket list? In this top travel nurse city, you’ll get paid more than sunshine and good times. The average salary for travel nurses in Maui, Hawaii is $1,925 per week .  

For many travel nurses, working in Maui, Hawaii, is a dream come true.

The breathtaking beaches, the mountains, the people, the culture — beauty is everywhere in Maui. 

Living in Maui means everything to do is about being outdoors and connecting with nature. Why not? It’s warm all year long. 

Here are seven popular ideas to get your Maui bucket list started:

• Attend a luau 
• Go whale watching
• Swim with sea turtles
• See the Seven Sacred Pools
• Tour a pineapple farm
• See a blowhole
• Bicycle down a volcano (Yes, that’s a thing .)

#2: Anchorage, Alaska

Anchorage, Alaska is another top destination for travel nurses due to its high pay and great attractions. The average travel nurse salary in Anchorage is $2,041 per week .

Alaskan travel assignments are for nurses who love adventure. 

You can hike volcanoes, see the Northern Lights, watch the salmon run, or take a helicopter tour over glaciers.

But Alaska’s not all wilderness — Anchorage offers arts, entertainment, galleries, restaurants, and nightlife. 

A few things to get your visit started are:

• See glaciers
• Learn about Alaska Native cultures
• Try dog sledding
• View the Northern Lights; and
• Watch the Bore Tide

#3: Honolulu, Hawaii

Like many other locations, Honolulu is experiencing a shortage of nurses, so travel nurses should have no problems finding assignments in Honolulu. 

Many travelers dream of visiting the Aloha State. And for travel nurses, it is a dream come true. Although it doesn’t make the cut for financial reasons — as the cost of living is quite high — the quality of life travel nurses experience far outweighs the issue. 

Aside from the surfing, beaches, historic landmarks, culture, and tropical climate, what makes Honolulu one of the best places for travel nurses to accept an assignment? 

Although not having a car may limit what travel nurses can do in their free time, public transportation makes it easy to travel in Honolulu. 

Take the time during your travel nursing career to enjoy the culture, history, and wholesome lifestyle Hawaii provides. 

Did we mention it pays well to be a travel nurse in Honolulu, Hawaii? The average travel nurse’s salary is $1,914 per week !

#4: Hilo, Hawaii

The weather, the culture, the outdoor activities — Hawaii itself doesn’t need much selling. And the pay isn’t half bad either. The average travel nurse salary in Hilo, Hawaii is $1,901 per week . 

The city of Hilo is located on the Big Island, so you’ll likely need a rain jacket for any outdoor activities over your assignment. Take a day trip to see the lava, hike to waterfalls like the ‘Akaka Falls , or just relax on the beach.

Visit gorgeous beaches and parks like:

• Richardson Ocean Park
• Liliuokalani Gardens
• Carlsmith Beach Park

#5: Juneau, Alaska

As the capital city of Alaska, Juneau offers plenty of activities for residents and visitors alike. During your assignment, you might check out:

• The Mendenhall Glacier 
• Whale watching
• Mount Juneau or Mount Roberts
• Bear viewing
• The Alaska State Museum
• Garden tours

Juneau, Alaska is a great travel nurse destination for nurses who love snow and rain. Juneau has an average of 230 days per year that have measurable precipitation, with 43 of those days having measurable snowfall. 

And if you aren’t into rain and snow, maybe you’ll be into the fact that Juneau has an average travel nursing salary of $1,628 per week . 

One of the best things about being a travel nurse is the experience of travel. 

However, you can’t just throw a dart at a map or hop on a plane to Hawaii without first considering a few factors . 

You may love the opportunities the destination offers, but if the cost of living is too high for the pay offered, you won’t be able to afford to go on adventures. Be sure to learn how to budget appropriately . 

If you are hoping to rely on public transportation, but you arrive to find out that what’s offered is several years away from efficiency, you’re going to begin your several months there already stressed.

Consider these top 4 factors:

• Pay and cost of living
• Distance from family
• Local transportation options
• Crime rates

If you’re working with a reliable nurse staffing agency, like Trusted Nurse Staffing, they should walk you through these factors and help you make the right decision for your travel nurse assignment. 

At Trusted Nurse Staffing , we appreciate our nurses. We make it a priority to make you feel welcome, and we want you to be successful. 

When you become a travel nurse with us, you’ll enjoy perks like:

• The highest pay rates
• The best benefits packages in the industry
• A welcome box with lots of great swag; and
• Access to your recruiter 24/7

When you’re ready to start your new adventure, we’d love to help you discover the best places to travel nurse. 

Just visit Pronto and start scrolling through all of the travel nursing assignments in all of the various cities. Can’t find one that suits your interests and needs? Set reminders so that you can be notified when the perfect assignment for you comes up. 

Go to Pronto now and start searching for your dream travel nursing job. We can’t wait to connect with you.

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Best Cities for Travel Nursing 2023: Thrive in These Top Destinations!

• December 1, 2023

Table of Contents

The best cities for travel nursing in 2023 are based on factors such as job opportunities, pay rates, and quality of life. These cities provide a rewarding and fulfilling experience for travel nurses, with top choices including New York City, San Francisco, and Seattle.

These cities have a high demand for healthcare professionals and offer attractive compensation packages, allowing travel nurses to earn a competitive salary. Additionally, they provide diverse cultural experiences, excellent amenities, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Travel nurses can immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere, explore the city’s attractions, and enhance their nursing skills by working in top-rated medical facilities.

Travel nursing in these cities in 2023 promises to be an exciting and rewarding adventure.

Credit: www.verywellfamily.com

Travel Nursing 2023: Top City Picks

If you’re a travel nurse or considering a career in travel nursing, you’re in luck. 2023 promises to be an exciting year for travel nursing, with new opportunities and cities waiting to be explored. In this blog post, we will discuss the best cities for travel nursing in 2023. Whether you’re a seasoned travel nurse or just starting out, these cities will offer you a unique experience and a chance to grow both personally and professionally.

Considerations For Selecting A Travel Nursing Destination

When it comes to selecting a travel nursing destination, there are several factors to consider. Each nurse has their own preferences and priorities, but here are a few common considerations:

• Job opportunities: Look for cities with a high demand for travel nurses and a variety of healthcare facilities.
• Cost of living: Consider the cost of housing, transportation, and other daily expenses in the city.
• Licensing requirements: Check if the state requires any specific licenses or certifications for travel nurses.
• Cultural attractions: Think about the cultural opportunities and recreational activities available in the city.
• Climate: Consider the climate and weather conditions that suit your preferences.

Benefits Of Travel Nursing In Diverse Cities

Travel nursing in diverse cities offers a range of benefits for healthcare professionals. Here are a few reasons why it’s worth considering:

• Diverse patient populations: Working in diverse cities allows travel nurses to gain experience with patients from different cultural backgrounds and medical conditions.
• Professional growth: By working in various healthcare systems, travel nurses can enhance their skills and knowledge, making them more attractive to future employers.
• Exploration and adventure: Travel nursing offers the opportunity to explore new cities, meet new people, and experience different cultures, adding a sense of adventure to your career.
• Networking opportunities: Travel nurses have the chance to meet and collaborate with healthcare professionals from different backgrounds, building a strong professional network.
• Flexibility and choice: With the ability to choose your assignments, you have the power to decide where and when you want to work, providing you with flexibility and control over your career.

Trends Impacting Travel Nursing Locations In 2023

In 2023, several trends will shape the travel nursing landscape. Here are a few trends to keep in mind when selecting your travel nursing destinations:

Considering these trends can help you make informed decisions about your travel nursing destinations in 2023, ensuring a fulfilling and rewarding experience.

Best Cities For Travel Nursing 2023: Criteria

Choosing the right city for travel nursing is an important decision that can greatly impact your experience as a healthcare professional. As the demand for travel nurses continues to grow, it’s important to consider certain criteria when determining the best cities for travel nursing in 2023. In this blog post, we will explore the key factors to consider, including affordability and cost of living, availability of travel nursing jobs, quality of healthcare facilities, and the community and lifestyle for nurses.

Affordability And Cost Of Living

When it comes to travel nursing, financial considerations are crucial. As a travel nurse, you want to make the most of your earnings while still enjoying a comfortable lifestyle. Therefore, affordability and cost of living are important factors to consider when choosing a city for your next assignment.

To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a list of cities that offer a reasonable cost of living and affordable housing options for travel nurses. Here are some cities that should be on your radar:

These cities offer a reasonable cost of living with affordable housing options, allowing you to save more money or spend it on exploring the city during your time off.

Availability Of Travel Nursing Jobs

As a travel nurse, finding job opportunities is a primary concern. You want to be in a city where there is a high demand for healthcare professionals to ensure a steady stream of assignments. Here are some cities that offer ample travel nursing job opportunities:

• New York City, NY
• Los Angeles, CA
• Houston, TX
• Chicago, IL

These cities have a robust healthcare industry with a high demand for travel nurses. By choosing a city where there are plenty of job opportunities, you can maximize your earning potential and gain valuable experience in different healthcare settings.

Quality Of Healthcare Facilities

When embarking on a travel nursing assignment, it is crucial to be in a city that offers high-quality healthcare facilities. You want to work in an environment with state-of-the-art equipment, top-notch medical professionals, and excellent patient care. Here are some cities known for their exceptional healthcare facilities:

• San Francisco, CA
• Seattle, WA
• Minneapolis, MN

These cities are renowned for their world-class hospitals and medical centers, providing travel nurses with the opportunity to work in top-tier healthcare facilities.

Community And Lifestyle For Nurses

Aside from work, it’s important to consider the community and lifestyle offered by a city when choosing a travel nursing destination. The support and camaraderie among fellow healthcare professionals can greatly enhance your experience as a travel nurse. Here are some cities known for their nurse-friendly communities and vibrant lifestyles:

• San Diego, CA
• Portland, OR

These cities not only offer a great work-life balance but also provide a wide range of recreational activities, social events, and networking opportunities for nurses.

Consider these criteria when choosing the best cities for travel nursing in 2023. Remember, each nurse has unique preferences and priorities, so be sure to find a city that aligns with your personal and professional goals. Happy traveling!

Thriving In Your Ideal Nursing Locale

As a travel nurse, finding yourself in a new city or town can be as exciting as it is daunting. Not only are you embarking on a new professional journey, but you also have the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new community, explore diverse cultures, and enjoy unique experiences. Thriving in your ideal nursing locale is all about adapting to new surroundings, building a network of fellow travel nurses, and finding the perfect balance between work and leisure. In this article, we will explore some strategies to help you thrive in any new location you find yourself in.

Adaptation Strategies For New Surroundings

When stepping into an unfamiliar city, it’s important to have strategies in place to help you adapt quickly. Here are some actionable tips:

• Research the local culture, customs, and norms before your arrival. This will give you a head start in understanding the new environment and help you navigate it with ease.
• Connect with other local healthcare professionals or travel nurses who are already established in the area. They can provide valuable insights and recommendations on the best places to live, things to do, and resources available for nurses.
• Take the time to explore the surroundings. Whether it’s visiting local markets, parks, or landmarks, immersing yourself in the city’s unique offerings will not only help you adapt, but also make your experience more enriching.
• Embrace the local cuisine. Trying new foods can be a delightful adventure and a great way to connect with the local culture. Ask your colleagues or locals for recommendations and make it a point to sample the regional delicacies.
• Stay organized and keep a record of important contacts, addresses, and resources specific to the new location. This will help you settle in quickly and minimize any unnecessary stress.

Networking With Other Travel Nurses

Building a network of fellow travel nurses can be invaluable throughout your career. Here’s how you can start:

• Join travel nursing communities and forums online. These platforms provide a wealth of information, advice, and support from experienced professionals in your field.
• Attend local meetups or conferences specifically tailored to travel nurses. These events not only offer great networking opportunities, but also educational sessions and workshops to enhance your professional skills.
• Connect with travel nurses you meet along the way during your assignments. Building relationships with others who share similar experiences and challenges can provide you with a strong support system.
• Consider joining professional organizations dedicated to travel nursing. These organizations often offer resources, educational opportunities, and mentorship programs to help you grow in your career.

Balancing Work And Leisure As A Travel Nurse

One of the greatest perks of travel nursing is the opportunity to explore new places while advancing your career. Here’s how you can find balance:

• Plan your work schedule strategically. Allocate specific days or times for exploring the city and make the most of your days off.
• Research local attractions, events, and activities before your arrival. This will allow you to have a list of things you want to experience, making it easier to fit them into your schedule.
• Take advantage of local transportation options. Familiarize yourself with public transit systems, biking routes, or car-sharing services to make getting around the city convenient and efficient.
• Prioritize self-care. A demanding nursing career can be physically and emotionally draining, so make sure to schedule time for activities that help you relax and recharge.
• Explore new hobbies or interests that are unique to the location. Whether it’s taking a surfing lesson by the beach or attending a local cooking class, engaging in local activities can broaden your horizons and create unforgettable memories.

Exploring Top Destinations For Nurses

Are you a travel nurse ready to embark on an exciting adventure? Look no further! In this article, we will guide you through the best cities for travel nursing in 2023. These top destinations not only offer ample job opportunities but also provide unique attractions and experiences that will make your time off even more memorable. So pack your bags and get ready to thrive in these incredible cities!

Best Cities For Travel Nursing 2023: Thrive In These Top Destinations!

Ready to discover the best cities for travel nursing in 2023? We’ve curated a list of destinations that will make your heart skip a beat. Whether you’re attracted to the allure of big cities or longing for a laid-back coastal retreat, we’ve got you covered. These cities offer thriving healthcare industries, incredible facilities, and vibrant communities that will make your travel nursing experience truly exceptional.

Unique Attractions In Each City

Each of the best cities for travel nursing in 2023 has its own set of unique attractions that will mesmerize and captivate you during your time off. Let’s take a closer look at what makes these destinations special:

These are just a few examples of the unique attractions you can experience in the best cities for travel nursing in 2023. Each destination offers something special that will make your time off truly memorable.

Safety And Social Considerations For Traveling Nurses

As a traveling nurse, your safety and well-being are of utmost importance. When choosing your next destination, it’s essential to consider the safety and social aspects of the city. Here are a few aspects to keep in mind:

• Crime rates: Research the crime rates in the city to ensure you’re choosing a safe environment for both work and leisure.
• Community support: Look for cities with a strong sense of community and support systems for traveling nurses, making it easier to settle in and feel at home.
• Healthcare facilities: Consider the quality and reputation of healthcare facilities in the city to ensure you’ll be working in a safe and supportive environment.

By taking these safety and social considerations into account, you can ensure a seamless transition and a fulfilling travel nursing experience.

Future Of Travel Nursing In Urban Centers

The future of travel nursing in urban centers looks promising, with cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Houston offering great opportunities in 2023. Explore the best cities for travel nursing and enjoy a fulfilling career in the heart of vibrant urban environments.

Technological Advancements In Nursing

In the ever-evolving field of healthcare, technological advancements continue to revolutionize the way nurses deliver care. These advancements are particularly significant for travel nurses working in urban centers, where cutting-edge technology plays a vital role in providing efficient and effective healthcare services.

From electronic health records to telehealth platforms, technology has transformed the way nurses document, access, and share patient information. This enables travel nurses to seamlessly transition between different healthcare facilities and collaborate with diverse teams of healthcare professionals.

Furthermore, new medical devices and equipment enhance the diagnostic accuracy, treatment procedures, and patient monitoring capabilities of travel nurses. The use of wearable technologies, such as smartwatches and biosensors, allows for real-time health monitoring and early detection of potential issues.

Predicted Job Market Changes For Travel Nurses

The job market for travel nurses in urban centers is expected to undergo significant changes in the coming years. As healthcare systems continue to adapt and evolve, travel nursing offers flexibility and opportunities for professional growth.

One of the key factors driving these changes is the aging population and the increasing demand for healthcare services. Urban centers are often at the forefront of population growth and medical advancements, making them prime locations for travel nursing assignments.

Additionally, healthcare facilities are becoming more focused on preventive care, chronic disease management, and population health. This shift in healthcare priorities creates a demand for travel nurses with specialized skills and knowledge in these areas.

• Rising demand for travel nurses due to an aging population.
• Opportunities for professional growth in urban centers.
• Increase in travel nursing assignments focusing on preventive care and chronic disease management.
• Specialized skills and knowledge in demand for population health.

Building A Sustainable Career In Travel Nursing

For travel nurses seeking a sustainable and fulfilling career in urban centers, there are several strategies to consider. These strategies revolve around building a strong professional network, continuously updating skills, and prioritizing work-life balance.

Networking with fellow travel nurses, local healthcare professionals, and industry organizations can open doors to new opportunities and foster professional growth. Engaging in professional development activities, such as attending conferences and workshops, allows travel nurses to stay abreast of the latest advancements in healthcare.

Furthermore, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for long-term sustainability. Urban centers can be bustling environments, so it’s essential for travel nurses to prioritize self-care, schedule downtime, and find support systems within their personal and professional circles.

• Build a strong professional network with fellow travel nurses and local healthcare professionals.
• Engage in continuous professional development to stay updated with the latest advancements.
• Prioritize work-life balance for long-term sustainability.
• Find support systems within personal and professional circles.

Frequently Asked Questions Of Best Cities For Travel Nursing 2023

What are the best cities for travel nursing in 2023.

The best cities for travel nursing in 2023 include New York City, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. These cities offer a wide range of job opportunities, attractive salaries, and vibrant cultures that make them perfect for travel nurses.

How Do I Choose The Right City For Travel Nursing?

When choosing a city for travel nursing, consider factors such as job opportunities in your specialty, cost of living, quality of healthcare facilities, and lifestyle preferences. Researching each city’s attractions, amenities, and climate can help you find the perfect fit for your travel nursing adventure.

Are Travel Nursing Jobs In High Demand In Certain Cities?

Yes, travel nursing jobs are in high demand in certain cities, especially those with large healthcare systems, medical centers, and hospitals. Cities such as New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago have a high demand for travel nurses due to their population size and the need for healthcare professionals.

These top cities for travel nursing in 2023 offer a wealth of opportunities and experiences for healthcare professionals. With their strong medical facilities, vibrant communities, and abundant attractions, nurses are bound to find fulfillment both personally and professionally. Whether it’s the bustling streets of New York City, the laid-back charm of San Diego, or the cultural richness of Charleston, each city has its unique appeal.

So pack your bags and get ready for an exciting adventure in the world of travel nursing!

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The Ultimate Guide to Travel Nursing: Highest Paying Cities And Jobs

Table of Contents

Travel nursing is an exciting career path that allows healthcare professionals to work in different geographic locations and clinical settings while providing quality care to patients. One of the biggest advantages of this profession is the ability to earn a higher salary compared to traditional nursing jobs. In this ultimate guide to travel nursing, we will explore the highest-paying cities and jobs in the industry. Whether you're a seasoned travel nurse or just starting out, this guide will provide you with the information you need to maximize your earnings and advance your career.

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Highest Paying Cities for Travel Nurses

When it comes to national travel nurse jobs, some cities and states tend to offer much higher pay than others. This is usually due to many factors, such as the cost of living, demands for specific nursing specialties, and the availability of medical facilities.

The Top 5 Highest Paying Travel Nursing Cities

1. San Francisco, California:

San Francisco is a city known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, vibrant cultural scene, and tech industry, and it also happens to be one of the highest-paying travel nursing cities. Due to the high cost of living, the travel nurse salary in San Francisco typically covers housing stipends and other benefits to help nurses manage their expenses. The average base salary for travel nursing jobs here is well above the national average pay.

2. San Diego, California:

Another Californian city on our list, San Diego is famous for its beautiful coastlines, pristine beaches, and world-class medical facilities. Travel nurse jobs in San Diego offer competitive salaries, especially for those with experience in specialized areas like critical care, neonatal nursing, and oncology. The travel nursing jobs in San Diego are often found in prestigious institutions, providing an excellent opportunity to expand your professional network.

3. North Carolina:

The Tar Heel State offers some of the best national travel nurse jobs with competitive salaries. Along with attractive pay packages, North Carolina provides travel nurses with plenty of opportunities to explore its beautiful landscapes, from the Appalachian Mountains to the Atlantic Coast. Cities like Charlotte, Raleigh, and Durham offer high-paying positions in both urban and rural medical facilities.

4. South Dakota:

South Dakota, known for its vast expanses of natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities, is another high-paying state for travel nurse jobs. Medical facilities in cities like Rapid City and Sioux Falls offer competitive salaries and incentives to attract qualified travel nurses. As a travel nurse in South Dakota, you can enjoy exploring Mount Rushmore, Badlands National Park, and numerous historical sites while earning a substantial income.

5. South Carolina:

Attractive pay packages are just one aspect that draws travel nurses to the scenic state of South Carolina. With beautiful beaches and historic cities like Charleston, South Carolina offers an excellent work-life balance for travel nurses. South Carolina's highest-paying travel nursing cities include Columbia, Greenville, and Myrtle Beach. Nurses working in specialized fields like cardiac, dialysis, and labor and delivery can expect even higher salaries.

Understanding the Fine Print: How Much Do Travel Nurses Really Make?

The fully detailed pay packages for travel nurses.

Travel nurse salary packages can be complex and vary depending on factors such as location, specialization, and experience. A standard pay package may include an hourly wage, housing stipend, per diem allowances, and travel reimbursements. In certain locations, such as North Dakota, Western States, or the East Coast, these packages may also include bonuses, such as sign-on, completion, or extension bonuses.

Understanding the various components of a travel nurse salary package is essential to making an informed decision about the opportunities available and how well they align with your financial goals. It's crucial to review NCLEX questions and negotiate pay packages, including stipends and allowances, during the interview process.

Travel Nurse Salary: Negotiating for the Highest Pay

Negotiating your travel nurse salary and benefits can be a complicated process, but it's vital to ensure you're fairly compensated for your skills and experience. Here are some tips for negotiating the highest pay possible:

1. Know your worth: Research the average travel nurse's salary for your specialty and experience level in the location you're considering. Websites like Glassdoor and Payscale can provide salary data for different nursing specialties and geographical areas.

2. Be prepared to discuss your experience and qualifications: Highlight your certifications, relevant experience, and any additional skills that set you apart from other candidates. Make sure to mention any particularly challenging assignments you've handled in the past.

3. Don't be afraid to ask for more: If you receive an offer that is below your expectations or less competitive than similar job postings, it is acceptable to ask for a higher salary or additional benefits like a housing stipend, travel reimbursement, or bonuses.

4. Weigh the entire package: Remember, your travel nurse salary is just one component of your overall compensation package. Be sure to consider factors like housing, medical benefits, and opportunities for professional growth when comparing different travel nursing jobs.

How to Find the Best Paying Travel Nurse Jobs

Finding the best-paying travel nurse jobs involves a combination of research, networking, and persistence. Here's how to maximize your chances:

1. Utilize reputable job boards: Websites like TravelNursing.org or NurseFly.com are great resources for finding travel nursing jobs with competitive salaries. Keep an eye out for listings in the highest-paying travel nursing cities and states.

2. Partner with a travel nursing agency: A good travel nursing agency, like Health Carousel Travel Nursing, can help you find the best-paying travel nurse jobs tailored to your preferences and qualifications. They can also help with negotiating salary and benefits on your behalf.

3. Network with other travel nurses: Join online forums, and social media groups, or attend conferences and meetups for travel nurses. Networking with other professionals in the field can provide valuable information about high-paying travel nurse jobs and potential employers.

4. Be open to relocating: Some of the highest-paying travel nurse jobs might be in locations that weren't initially on your radar, such as North Dakota, South Dakota, or cities along the East and West Coast. Be open to exploring new locations to benefit from these lucrative opportunities.

As the demand for nursing professionals continues to grow, national travel nurse jobs in cities like Raleigh, San Diego, San Francisco, and Sioux Falls present fantastic prospects for those seeking well-paid opportunities. Understanding the pay structure and remaining proactive in your job search will help ensure that you find high-paying travel nursing jobs in the most rewarding locations.

Top Travel Nursing Jobs and Specializations

Travel nursing is an exciting and rewarding profession with numerous job opportunities for skilled healthcare professionals. With diverse specializations and locations, travel nurses can grow their careers while exploring new places. In this article, we'll focus on some popular travel nursing jobs and their respective specializations, such as Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and Anesthesia Care Unit (ACU) travel nursing jobs .

Licensed Practical Nurse Travel Nursing Jobs

As travel nurses, LPNs can find opportunities across the country, working in various medical facilities such as hospitals, outpatient centers, and long-term care facilities. Some popular regions for national travel nurse jobs include California, North and South Dakota, and the East Coast. LPNs are in high demand as they provide essential care to patients, like administering medications, dressing wounds, and assisting with daily tasks.

Travel nurse jobs for LPNs often offer competitive salaries. According to recent data, the travel nurse's salary is typically higher than the national average pay, allowing professionals to save money while exploring different parts of the country. With paid travel expenses, housing options, and flexibility in assignment duration, LPNs can enjoy a more comfortable and adventurous lifestyle.

To qualify for LPN travel nursing jobs , candidates must pass the NCLEX-PN exam, which prepares them for practical nursing roles. Completing NCLEX questions and gaining experience in various medical settings can equip LPNs to handle different patient populations and healthcare environments. This versatility makes LPNs even more appealing to employers offering travel nursing jobs.

Anesthesia Care Unit Travel Nursing Jobs

Another promising specialization within the travel nursing field is working in Anesthesia Care Units (ACUs). Ensuring patient safety and comfort during surgical procedures, ACU travel nurses provide vital support to anesthesiologists and nurse anesthetists. They monitor patients before, during, and after surgeries, administer medications, and maintain proper documentation.

Travel nursing jobs in ACUs are available in various medical facilities throughout the country. Nurses can choose assignments based on their preferences, selecting from locations along the West Coast, such as Los Angeles, or in the northern and western states like North Dakota, South Dakota, and numerous others.

ACU travel nurses are rewarded with competitive salaries, which often exceed the national average pay. As with other travel nurse jobs, benefits like paying travel expenses, furnished housing options, and flexible assignment lengths make these positions highly attractive, enabling nurses to pursue their passions and enjoy a balanced lifestyle.

To qualify for ACU travel nursing jobs, candidates must complete their RN degree, pass the NCLEX-RN exam, and gain experience working within anesthesia care settings. This experience serves as a solid foundation to excel in ACU travel nursing roles, as well as to potentially further specialize in areas such as the Cardiac Care Unit (CCU) or the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU).

In conclusion, travel nursing jobs present healthcare professionals with excellent opportunities to grow and diversify their careers. As healthcare environments change and new challenges arise, travel nurses equipped with specialized skills like LPNs or those in the Anesthesia Care Unit (ACU) will continue to be in high demand, allowing them to enjoy nationwide opportunities, competitive salaries, and fulfilling work experience.

Whether you are looking for an east, west, north or south location, you can choose your dream travel assignment and still make top dollar for your efforts. Connect with your recruiter to get the ball rolling!

Jennifer McDonald , FNP-BC is a nurse practitioner with 17 years of healthcare experience. She has worked in medical research for six years, teaches nurse practitioner students, and spent many years in acute and family care. Her love of medicine is rivaled only by her love of coffee and running with her endlessly energetic puppy.

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Dive into the world of travel nursing and travel healthcare, the best cities for travel nurses: fall 2023.

Kiss the summer goodbye, fall is almost here and it’s the perfect time to explore new horizons with a new travel assignment. If you’re looking for an exciting destination for your next contract, we’ve got you covered. In this blog post, we’ll be unveiling the top cities for this fall that promise an exciting experience for travel nurses and other healthcare adventurers. From the foodie scene of Washington DC to the coastal allure of Norfolk, Virginia, these locations offer an amazing blend of healthcare career opportunities, cultural diversity, and fun all around. So, pack your bags and let’s embark on an unforgettable journey to the best cities for travel healthcare professionals this fall.

Albany, New York – for the history buff

Albany is one of the oldest settlements in the United States, dating back to the early 17th century. As the capital of New York State, it is steeped in history and offers a plethora of historical sites and landmarks to explore. The New York State Capitol, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture, is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts. Additionally, the Albany Institute of History & Art houses an impressive collection of artifacts and artworks that provide insights into the region’s past. While you’re there, be sure to tour the Ten Broeck Mansion , Schuyler Mansion , and the USS Slater, a World War II-era destroyer escort – perfect for a day off from your travel nurse assignment.

Boise, ID – for the fall lover

Boise and the surrounding areas come alive with stunning fall foliage every autumn. As the leaves change color, the landscape transforms into a beautiful tapestry of red, orange, and yellow hues. The Boise River Greenbelt, a scenic pathway that runs along the river, offers an excellent opportunity to enjoy leisurely walks or bike rides surrounded by the vibrant colors of fall. The Kathryn Albertson Park , known for its extensive collection of trees and gardens, is another fantastic spot to witness the breathtaking fall foliage. You can also venture into the nearby Boise National Forest or the Sawtooth National Recreation Area for more immersive nature experiences amidst the changing leaves.

Grand Rapids, MI – for the craft beer enthusiasts

Grand Rapids has earned the nickname “Beer City USA” due to its up and coming craft beer scene. The city is home to numerous award-winning breweries and brewpubs, offering an incredible selection of craft beers. While you’re there, take a brewery tour, taste a wide range of brews, and learn about the beer-making process. The craft beer culture has become an integral part of the city’s identity, and you’ll find no shortage of unique and innovative brews to savor during your visit.

Minneapolis, MN – for the football fanatics

Minneapolis is home to several major sports teams, including the NFL’s Minnesota Vikings. Even if you’re not a Vikings fan, there’s a chance that you can catch your favorite team playing them at the incredible U.S. Bank Stadium.

Even if you are not a die-hard football fan, the game-day ambiance in Minneapolis can be an unforgettable experience, providing a glimpse into the fervor and spirit of one of our country’s most popular sports. Plus, the fall weather in Minneapolis offers a crisp and comfortable backdrop for enjoying a day at the stadium.

Norfolk, VA – for the maritime attractions

Norfolk, right on Chesapeake Bay leading to the Atlantic Ocean, is home to the largest naval base in the world, Naval Station Norfolk. As such, the city offers a treasure trove of maritime-related attractions and experiences.

a. Nauticus: Nauticus is a maritime museum and science center located on the waterfront. It offers interactive exhibits that delve into naval history, the power of the sea, and marine life. One of the highlights is the Battleship Wisconsin, a retired battleship docked adjacent to Nauticus. Visitors can step aboard and explore this massive warship, gaining insights into naval warfare and life at sea.

b. The MacArthur Memorial: This museum and research center honors General Douglas MacArthur, a prominent figure in American military history. It features exhibits on MacArthur’s life and career and provides a fascinating glimpse into the events that shaped the nation’s military past.

c. Naval Base Tours: Visitors can also take guided tours of the Naval Station Norfolk, offering a unique opportunity to see one of the most significant naval installations in the world up close. You can witness various naval vessels, including aircraft carriers and submarines, and learn about the daily operations of the U.S. Navy.

Aside from its naval attractions, Norfolk boasts a lively waterfront with restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues, making it a well-rounded destination for history enthusiasts, maritime aficionados, and anyone interested in exploring the city’s unique cultural and military heritage.

Washington DC – for the cuisine scene

Washington, D.C., offers a vibrant and diverse culinary scene that makes it a perfect destination for foodies. One notable foodie reason to travel to Washington, D.C., is to experience its renowned and eclectic food markets.

Food Markets: Washington, D.C., is home to several bustling food markets that showcase a wide array of culinary delights. Two of the most popular markets you must explore are:

a. Union Market: Union Market is a bustling food hall that brings together a curated selection of local food vendors, artisans, and specialty shops. Here, you can indulge in a variety of cuisines, from gourmet burgers and sushi to artisanal cheeses and freshly baked pastries. It’s a great place to sample dishes from different cultures and try unique food creations.

b. Eastern Market: Located in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, Eastern Market is not only a historic landmark but also a vibrant food and arts market. On weekends, the outdoor flea market comes alive with food vendors offering everything from fresh produce and artisanal foods to international treats and handmade desserts. Inside the market building, you can find local vendors selling fresh meat, seafood, and baked goods.

Exploring these food markets will provide you with an authentic taste of the city’s culinary offerings, and you’ll have the opportunity to savor delicious dishes created by talented chefs and food artisans. Whether you’re a food lover or simply curious about the city’s gastronomic delights, Washington, D.C.’s food markets are sure to leave you with a memorable and satisfying foodie experience.

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Ranking: Cities for Travel Nursing Jobs with High Housing Stipends

Travel nursing jobs come in all shapes. Sizes. Locations. Pay rates. Benefits, etc. When choosing a travel nursing job, several factors weigh into a registered nurse's ( RN's ) or licensed practical nurse's ( LPN's ) decision. However, for many nurses, there is one consideration that plays a significant role in choosing their next contract - and that is how much it pays. 

This article will summarize some top cities for travel nursing jobs with high travel nursing salaries and five cities that are favorites amongst travel nurses.

What Is A Housing Stipend ?

A stipend is the money your agency gives you for housing while on your travel assignment. The purpose of a housing stipend is to cover the cost of living for maintaining two addresses, your permanent address and the housing at your temporary address during your travel nursing assignment.

High-Paying Cities for Travel Nursing Jobs and Their Approximate Housing Stipends

Because the cost of living factors into the overall pay that travel nurses receive. While it is important to bear in mind that housing stipends and packages vary depending on the way the packages are adjusted, these are some average housing stipends in cities with some of the highest allotted amounts:

• Los Angeles, CA – $2,977
• San Francisco, CA – $2,843
• San Jose, CA – $2,817
• Stockton, CA – $2,467
• San Bernardino, CA – $2,445
• Washington DC – $2,4
• New York, NY – $2,3

5 Popular Cities For Travel Nursing Jobs

1. san diego, california.

With plenty of housing options, although housing is expensive, affordable housing options abound in San Diego. You can find a house to rent for between $1,500 and $2,000 and still be close to work. There are plenty of accommodations for people not wanting to share housing and who want to bring their significant other.

Compensation:

Nurses in this city can earn around $2,572 per week in addition to housing and benefits.

Things To Do in San Diego:

Many activities await you during your time off work in this city. Enjoy places like Balboa Park . There is a zoo, botanical house, and museum with unique Spanish architecture. Go whale watching along with seeing other local wildlife. Once the sunset arrives, you have some of the most spectacular nightlife on the west coast, from restaurants, bars, and clubs, and at night the party is on.

2. Seattle, Washington

The second most popular destination for travel nurses on our list is Seattle. The city offers plenty of fully furnished housing, private housing, and accommodations for those looking to stay with a roommate. Housing can be a bit pricey, but a housing stipend can make that a little easier to afford. Housing costs average around $1,500 to $2,000 a month.

A travel nurse in Seattle can expect to make around $ 2,635 per week in addition to benefits and stipends, depending on the agency you work for.

Things To Do in Seattle:

Although Seattle has a bit of an overcast for a significant portion of the year, there are still plenty of things to do to make up for it. See famous landmarks. There's the traditional fish toss at Pike Place Market. Enjoy the view with the Seattle Center Monorail , and don't forget the famous Space Needle . You have more cultural events to enjoy, such as the Pacific Northwest Ballet, Chihuly Garden, Glass Museum, and Museum of Pop Culture. Cheap transportation facilitates easy exploration of the city.

3. San Francisco, California

The city of San Francisco is another highly sought-after destination by travel nurses for contracts. Although the cost of living is among the highest in the nation, affordable housing exists. Short-term stay hotels abound, many with access to a gym, laundry service, housekeeping,, etc.

A travel nurse can expect to make around $1,949 a week working in San Francisco in addition to housing stipends and benefits.

Things To Do in San Francisco:

Like the outdoors? There's everything you could want within walking distance in San Francisco. You will find plenty of outdoor spaces and beautiful trees to enjoy. There are amazing parks everywhere. While you stay in the city, the infamous Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and Fisherman's Wharf are must-sees. There's too much to list. You won't run out of things to do.

4. Los Angeles, California

LA is one of the largest cities in the nation. It's a popular place for travel nurses. The cost of living is high, but the stipends should help with the cost of living. Housing will cost you anywhere from $2,000 to $2,500. If you want your private place, you can save more by having a shared place to stay.

A travel nurse can take home around $2,669 a week working an assignment in LA.

Things To Do in Los Angeles:

Los Angeles bustles with diversity and entertainment, engulfed by nightclubs, cultural institutions, and cinemas. LA will keep you occupied on your off time with miles of beaches, urban parks, and wild canyons. This place bleeds with entertainment.

5. Boston, Massachusetts 

Boston is a top choice for travel nurses due to its well-known hospitals and universities. The city is renowned for its history. 

You won't have a problem finding housing. There are plenty of furnished housing options available. Pricing on housing can be expensive. Prices can be $2,500 and above. There are hotels set up for long-term stays if you're looking for all the services they can provide.  

A travel nurse working in Boston can earn around $2,458 a week in addition to stipends and benefits.

Things To Do in Boston: 

There are many monuments and sites because their history relates to the birth of America. Check out the Boston Common, the oldest park in the nation, created in 1634. Take a walk on the Freedom Trails, which makes exploring easy because it connects you all around the city.

How Do Local Travel Nursing Jobs or Per Diem Jobs Work?

If you're interested in local nursing jobs, try Nursa . Work PRN jobs that connect you to the facility directly. You don't receive all the benefits but take home much more money.

Meet Jeremy, a contributing copywriter and editor at Nursa who specializes in topics around licensing, clinician salaries, and per diem job locations.

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The Best Traveling Nurse Services to Work for in 2024

The travel nursing agencies we recommend for your next short-term post

Traveling nurses often find working in different parts of the country, or even the world, exhilarating and fulfilling. Many agencies focus on matching registered nurses (RNs) with short-term working opportunities in a variety of healthcare specialties and settings across the United States and internationally. Healthcare facilities in the U.S. rely on travel nurses to meet the demand for nurses, which is expected to soar by 275,000 between 2020 and 2030.

"Being able to explore other healthcare systems and connect with other providers can help give a travel nurse new experiences and perspectives," says Rachel Norton , BSN, RN, a clinician support manager at Vivian Health , a national travel nurse hiring marketplace.  We reviewed more than 20 agencies and studied hundreds of reviews to create this list of the best travel nursing agencies. We considered factors such as company quality, customer service scores, company reputation, wage ranges, housing options, and benefits.

• Best Overall: Triage Staffing
• Best for Sick Pay: Aya Healthcare
• Best for Education: Travel Nurse Across America
• Best Customer Service: Axis Medical Staffing
• Best Track Record: FlexCare Medical Staffing
• Best Newcomer: Advantis Medical
• Best for Benefits: RN Network
• Best Recruiters: Host Healthcare
• Best for Recent Graduates: Fusion Medical Staff
• Best Job Board: TotalMed
• Our Top Picks

Triage Staffing

Aya Healthcare

Travel Nurse Across America

Axis Medical Staffing

FlexCare Medical Staffing

Advantis Medical

Host Healthcare

• Fusion Medical Staff
• See More (7)

Final Verdict

• Compare Providers
• Guide to Choosing

Best Overall : Triage Staffing

• Pay: Hourly wage paid weekly, overtime, bonuses, per diem
• Housing: Tax-free stipend or company-secured housing for 13 weeks
• Benefits: Health coverage, dental and vision coverage, life insurance, 401(k) with company match, vacation, education reimbursement
• Contracts nationwide: Yes

Triage Staffing tops our list because it provides a higher hourly wage and more frequent bonuses than its competitors. Additionally, the agency offers extensive perks, like tuition reimbursement and 401(k) on the first day.

Contracts available in all 50 states

Insurance available on first day

Paid by direct deposit each week

Dedicated support team available 24/7

Reports of poor weekend support for billing issues

Must have 2 years experience for most positions

Triage Staffing , founded in 2006, is considered by industry professionals as one of the most well-rounded travel nurse agencies among the companies listed here and in general. The company was recognized in 2023 by Inc. Magazine and Staffing Industry Analysts (SIA).

The company, which currently has about 1,500 employees, is based in Omaha, Nebraska, and has an impressive rating on Glassdoor .

Triage Staffing specializes in helping nurses and healthcare professionals find 13-week assignments across the U.S. The company strives for transparency and "to build relationships deeper than simple business transactions." Those who are hired are paid weekly (based on an hourly wage) via direct deposit.

The benefits package includes a wage, overtime, bonuses, per diems, and a housing stipend. Triage will also help its travel nurses find housing, if that's their preference. Health insurance is provided by Blue Cross Blue Shield, and those hired get dental insurance, vacation time, and a 401(k) plan.

Best for Sick Pay : Aya Healthcare

• Pay: Hourly wage, overtime, bonuses, per diem, stipends when called off
• Housing: Tax-free stipend or company-secured housing
• Benefits: Health, dental, and vision coverage; life insurance; 401(k) with company match; sick pay; wellness and fitness programs; employee assistance programs; tuition reimbursement; loan forgiveness options

Of the many benefits Aya Healthcare offers, one makes it stand out from other agencies: providing sick pay should you become ill during an assignment. You can rest assured knowing if you get sick, Aya will support you through recovery.

Benefits include sick pay (after 90 days)

Offers local and nationwide travel assignments

Requires only 1 year of experience

Insurance coverage for you and your dependents from day 1

Complaints about communication during recruitment

Large agency size might be challenging

401k eligibility begins after 4 consecutive months of work or 1 year after hiring

Aya Healthcare is one of the most talked-about travel nursing agencies around, literally. A 2017 independent study analyzed the frequency of top travel nursing companies mentioned by users on social media sites. The study concluded Aya Healthcare is the most frequently referenced in user comments.

Aya Healthcare is also one of the only travel nursing agencies that have sick pay, which begins accruing on the first day of an assignment. Nurses can earn one hour for every 30 hours worked, but it can't be used until after at least 90 days after their start date.

In addition to its rare sick pay policy, the company boasts comprehensive benefits. Travel nurses working for Aya Healthcare can start contributing to a company-matched 401k plan after four consecutive months of work for the agency, or one year after their hiring date. It also promises to cover or reimburse nurses for the cost of licensure and help them navigate and expedite the process in the states where they are assigned. Aya Healthcare offers discounts, wellness, and nutrition plans in addition to its medical, vision, and dental benefits, which are available to nurses (and their spouses and children) from their first day with the company.

Aya Healthcare has a strong online presence, including a blog and active social media accounts on nearly every contemporary platform. Its website proudly displays several company awards and accolades, including the Joint Commission's Golden Seal of Approval. The agency has placed thousands of travel nurses and allied workers nationwide and offers a program for  travel nursing from Canada .

Best for Education : Travel Nurse Across America

• Pay: Hourly wage paid weekly, overtime, bonuses, per diem (guaranteed)
• Benefits: Health, dental, and vision coverage; liability insurance; 401(k) with company match; sick pay; travel reimbursement; free continuing education; mental health resources; employee assistance program; chaplain assistance program

Travel Nurse Across America (TNAA) offers comprehensive benefits; however, its continuing education programs are what really sets the agency apart. Thanks to a partnership with Aspen University, the agency helps you earn your BSN with tuition reimbursement upon completion.

RN to BSN tuition reimbursement

RN specialty exam/recertification reimbursements

Insurance coverage available on first day

Offers free mental health resources

Per diem guarantee

Unable to see pay rates on the site

Large agency size might feel less supportive

Travel Nurse Across America (TNAA) had the highest average score when analyzing the top 10 travel nurse agency lists across several well-known sites.

Founded in 1999 in North Little Rock, Arkansas, this company was present on three "Top 10" lists in 2019, a notable feat that speaks to its history of satisfaction. According to BluePipes, TNAA was among the top 10 travel nursing agencies, one of the biggest (in terms of company size) on its 2022 list.  

TNAA uses a full-team approach to assist travelers, with specialty staff equipped to handle a variety of needs, including housing experts and clinical leadership, This agency also offers a wide array of benefits, such as low census pay, tuition reimbursement, and paid licensure fees prior to travel. Overtime is included in the payment for any extra hours worked and in every state, paid sick leave starts to accrue from day one.

TNAA also partnered with Aspen University, so individuals can get their Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 12 months. Upon completion, TNAA will even reimburse tuition expenses. It also offers reimbursements for recertification fees to certain eligible nurses.

Best Customer Service : Axis Medical Staffing

• Benefits: Health, dental, and vision coverage; 401(k) with company match; state license reimbursement; transportation stipends; continuing education

With around-the-clock support 365 days a year, Axis Medical Staffing has one of the best customer service reputations in the industry. It offers a wide array of benefits, including healthcare coverage and company-matched 401(k) plans.

Dedicated support team available 24/7/365

Wide variety of specialty contracts

Offers company matching 401(k) with immediate vesting

Can submit questions to real travel nurses

Provides quick email responses

Pays for housing and assists in securing it

Not transparent about pay rates

Doesn't include paid sick leave in benefits

User reviews for Axis remain the highest on this list. Formed in Seattle, Washington, in 2004, Axis provides several coveted benefits, including payment of paid personalized housing options (with pet deposit costs covered by the agency), as well as immediate vesting in its company-matched 401(k) plan.

This agency regularly features a new  Traveler of the Month nurse on its blog. Additionally, the Axis website has a page dedicated to Ask an Axis Travel Nurse , which features an easy submission form where a nurse can answer all your questions.

This encouraging way of connecting can provide novice or even seasoned travelers with a trusted source in the form of a nursing peer who has traveled with this specific agency several times, instead of hosting an impersonal message board. Axis also offers a live chat feature that's easily accessible on the homepage. These features earned Axis the top spot on BluePipes Best Travel Nursing Companies list in 2022.

Axis promises reimbursements and benefits similar to other companies, but it is not immediately clear from the company's website whether it offers paid sick leave.

Best Track Record : FlexCare Medical Staffing

• Benefits: Health coverage, dental and vision coverage, 401(k) with company match, state license reimbursement, transportation stipends, meals and incidentals stipend, rental car, travel reimbursement, continuing education, license reimbursement

Boasting more than 50 industry awards, including BluePipes’s 2022 Best Travel Nursing Companies list, FlexCare Medical Staffing has a track record of exceeding expectations and fulfilling its promises to traveling nurses.

Award-winning, highly reputable agency

Single point of contact for all your needs

Outstanding benefits

Features a referral program

Have to make an account to view wages

BluePipes refers to FlexCare Medical Staffing as the "most decorated travel nursing agency of all time," with more than 1,727 reviews reported. This agency obtained a gold finish on Travel Nursing Central’s 2019 list of top travel nursing companies and has consistently placed since 2014. FlexCare has also been on the Highway Hypodermics list since 2011.

FlexCare’s website touts its  Premier Traveler Access program, offering prospective travel nurses the opportunity to unlock and view pay ranges for a wide variety of open jobs, in addition to personalized alerts via text and email. This agency explains its mission to support travelers by providing a single recruiter who is able to meet every need (termed “S1NGLEPOINT” on the website) and help simplify the entire process.

This one point of contact can advocate for the traveler, assist in searching for jobs and housing, provide a transparent and competitive salary rate, as well as ensure timely payment.

Best Newcomer : Advantis Medical

• Benefits: Health coverage, dental and vision coverage, 401(k) without company match, transportation stipends, partial license reimbursement

Advantis Medical has a nurse care team available to help you every step of the way—from setting up your profile and walking you through the onboarding process to helping you find your next assignment—making it an excellent choice for those just starting out.

Excellent reviews from its travel clinicians

Quick response times from trained care team

Has a great reputation in the industry

Site offers several communication methods

Site lacks information on benefits package

No company match for 401(k)

Founded in 2018 as a subsidiary of Advantis Global, Advantis Medical's user reviews are limited in number but are glowing regarding people's experiences with the company.

Advantis Medical recruits travel nurses and places them in top institutions across the United States. The agency offers client connections with hospitals, outpatient clinics, same-day ambulatory surgical centers, as well as skilled nursing facilities.

Advantis Medical’s specialization opportunities include placements in divisions like medical-surgical (M/S), emergency department (ED), intensive care unit (ICU), labor & delivery (L&D), and more. Its benefits include highly competitive compensation packages, direct deposit available from day one, assistance with housing options, health insurance (medical, dental, vision), and a 401(k) option.

The agency also has payment incentives for referrals. To make the process as seamless as possible, Advantis Medical has a one-minute application form which could not be any easier, especially for a traveling nurse who is always on the go.

Best for Benefits : RN Network

• Benefits: Health, dental, and vision coverage; life insurance; employee assistance program; Sanvello membership; Talkspace membership; Teladoc access; credentialing assistance; continuing education; traditional and Roth 401(k); travel reimbursement; loyalty program

RN Network provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes day-one health insurance and 401(k) options, plus additional perks like access to virtual therapy and medical care.

24/7 clinical support

Transparent about pay rate

Provides access to virtual therapy and medical care

Weekly pay via direct deposit

Completion, extension, and referral bonuses

No paid time off

Complaints of lower-paying contracts

Founded in 1998, RN Network has over two decades of experience in the travel nursing industry. Its experience shows in the company's user reviews, many of which highlight its great communication, support, and benefits.

The agency provides an impressive benefits package that includes day-one health insurance with a zero-premium option, as well as a 401(k) with company match, both traditional and Roth options. RN Network also offers access to Talkspace, Teladoc, and Sanvello's mental health app—ensuring its healthcare professionals have the mental health resources they need while on assignment.

Available contracts and pay rates are transparent on their user-friendly website, which can be a rarity in the industry. The company hires RNs, LPNs/LVNs, PCTs, and surgical techs for a variety of specialties throughout the country. Only one year of clinical experience is required, and the company offers a comprehensive onboarding program to help simplify the transition.

Best Recruiters : Host Healthcare

• Pay: Hourly wage paid weekly, plus overtime, bonuses, per diem, COVID quarantine pay
• Benefits: Health, dental, and vision coverage, life insurance; 401(k) with company match; travel reimbursement

Host Healthcare recruiters are some of the best in the business, according to clinician reviews. With exceptional customer service , the company strives to make the job hunt and placement process as smooth as possible for its candidates.

Excellent customer service

Straightforward job hunt and placement process

Offers a variety of housing options, including pet-friendly

24/7 support via multiple channels

COVID-19 quarantine pay available

Can’t view facility or pay without an account

Site lacks information on reimbursement offers

Founded in 2012, Host Healthcare is a travel healthcare staffing agency that works with some of the nation's top facilities. The company has earned multiple awards over the years, including being named one of the Top Travel Nursing Companies by BluePipes.

What sets Host Healthcare apart from other agencies are its recruiters, who are consistently praised by clinicians for their exceptional customer service. In reviews, nurses rave about their recruiters being responsive, receptive, and thorough in their onboarding and placement processes. The company also offers a variety of housing options, including pet-friendly ones, to ensure you have a comfortable place to call home while on assignment.

In addition to its comprehensive benefits package, which includes health insurance, dental, and vision coverage, Host Healthcare also offers a 401(k) with company match and COVID-19 quarantine pay. If your facility quarantines you due to possible COVID-19 exposure, the company will compensate you for the duration of your time off work.

One drawback is that the company requires users to sign up for an account before viewing facilities and estimated weekly pay . However, it hires across multiple specialties and licensure types, including nursing professionals, therapy professionals, and other allied health professionals.

Best for Recent Graduates : Fusion Medical Staff

• Pay: Hourly wage paid weekly, plus overtime, per diem, and bonuses
• Benefits: Health coverage, dental and vision coverage, life insurance, 401(k) with company match, short-term disability, travel and transportation per diem

Fusion Medical offers competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and transparent information about opportunities, and welcomes new graduates to sign up.

Transparent information for each job posting

Nationwide network

Attentive recruiters

Competitive pay and benefits

Open to new graduates

Per diem reimbursements may be less convenient for expenses like travel

Past complaints from LGBTQIA employees

Fusion Medical Staffing urges applicants to "choose your own adventure." With thousands of travel nursing positions across the U.S. available on its website, Fusion will definitely give you a lot to choose from.

Founded in 2009 in Omaha, Nebraska, Fusion doubled its size by 2016. The company racked up awards from Inc., People, and Staffing Industry Analysts for being among the best places to work and is rated 4.7 out of 5 on Indeed.com .

Assignments through Fusion Medical typically run 13 to 26 weeks and are available across a broad spectrum of nursing specialties. We particularly like how transparent the pay, terms, and benefits for each opportunity are on Fusion's website.

But what really makes the company stand out is its recruitment. Fusion offers 24/7 support and many of its travel nurses rave about their attentive recruiters. Fusion has a new graduate traveling medical job program recruiting nurses who have just finished training. Most travel nursing agencies require at least two years of experience, so Fusion may be a great choice if you're about to finish school and eager to see the country or aren't sure of where you want to call home yet.

Of note: Some LGBTQIA+ travelers and employees have complained of inclusivity issues and unsupportive leadership. In 2021, the company published a blog post about forming an oversight group dedicated to LGBTQIA+ inclusivity and support and alluded to its efforts to "grow" and "learn."

Best Job Board : TotalMed

• Pay: Hourly wage paid weekly, plus overtime, bonuses, and guaranteed hours
• Housing: Company-provided housing or stipend
• Benefits: Health insurance, dental and vision coverage, life insurance, 401(k) with company match, short-term disability up to 12 weeks plus up to 60% of monthly earnings

TotalMed is one of the biggest agencies in the business and has the job board to match. The company is known for making it easy for travel nurses to quickly find a new post in any state.

Large, well-connected agency with huge job board

Solid day-one benefits

Flexible housing options

Pay guaranteed

Generous short-term disability policy

Some nurses complain of long onboarding process

Pay is competitive, but perhaps not the highest of any agency

Focus on placing nurses in areas of urgent need

Few travel nursing agencies have a job board as full as TotalMed 's. The company leverages its wide network of partner hospital systems to offer nurses a plethora of assignments to choose from.

TotalMed prides itself on placing nurses and other medical workers in new postings quickly and prioritizes assigning workers to places urgently in need of additional staff. It offers a standard array of benefits, plus a pay guarantee and a generous short-term disability policy that covers up to 12 weeks of injury or illness with up to 60% of your pay.

Some travel nurses have complained of a protracted onboarding process, but once the initial paperwork is out of the way, most seem very happy with the company's efficiency and the quality of its recruiters. Its pay may not always be the highest of any agency, but travel nurses working with TotalMed still enjoy the benefit of payment guarantees and the confidence that a new job will almost always be available, and fast. TotalMed also goes a long way to smooth out the transition process by organizing and covering the cost of any licensing and certifications its travel nurses may need, as well as offering reimbursement for pesky costs like new scrubs.

Even though some agencies on our list require account registration to access pay rates, each one offers competitive benefits and wages. Triage Staffing is our choice for best overall travel nursing agency because of its positive reviews, superior customer service, and competitive wages. Day one 401(k) and tuition reimbursement are just a few ways it provides long-term support for travelers. 

Compare the Best Travel Nursing Agencies

Guide to choosing the best travel nursing agencies.

Travel nursing agencies are  staffing agencies  that place registered nurses and healthcare professionals in hospitals and clinics with short-term staffing needs. They often send individuals to national or international locations where there are nursing shortages.

Here are a few tips for choosing the best travel nursing agency to meet your needs.

Is a Travel Nursing Agency Right for You?

There are many advantages to working with a travel nursing agency in addition to the obvious benefit of being able to travel and explore new places. Some of the other advantages of working with a travel nursing agency include:

• Competitive pay: Travel nursing agencies offer competitive pay rates that are often higher than what you would make as a staff nurse and recruiters can help you find lucrative positions.
• Benefits : Health insurance, retirement plans, and other benefits are typically included in a travel nursing agency's compensation package.
• Housing: Travel nursing agencies often provide housing or help nurses find housing in their assignment location.
• Specialty assignments based on nursing field: Agencies can help place you in an assignment that matches your specialty, interests, and skills . Some facilities accept travelers into new specialties or a float pool that covers multiple units, as long as they have prior travel nursing experience. This is an added bonus for those who wish to explore new areas of nursing.
• Flexibility: Agencies offer a variety of assignment lengths and locations, so you can choose an assignment that fits your lifestyle.
• Perks and discounts : Free or reduced-cost continuing education courses, travel expenses, gym memberships, completion bonuses, and other perks are often available through travel nursing agencies.

How to Choose a Travel Nurse Agency

Consider the following when choosing a travel nursing agency:

• Average pay rates: Pay rate varies by agency, location, and assignment. Travel nurses often work with multiple agencies at the same time to find the best assignments and pay rates.
• Benefits package: Make sure the agency's benefits are comprehensive and meet your needs. Benefits may include health coverage , dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, 401K, vacation time, and education reimbursement.
• Housing options: Determine if the agency provides housing or assists with finding housing. Some nurses prefer to find their own housing, while others prefer the convenience of having the agency secure housing for them.
• Reputation: Check out online reviews and ratings to get an idea of the agency's reputation. Talking to other travel nurses who have worked with the agency is also a good way to get first-hand information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which travel nurses are most in demand.

Staffing agencies report that demand is high for critical care and medical-surgical nurses. Emergency room staff and labor and delivery staff are also in great demand.

Do Travel Nursing Agencies Pay for Housing?

Your agency will either have housing available for you or will reimburse you for your housing expenses. If you choose to secure your own housing, most agencies will give you a stipend to help offset the cost of rent and utilities. Talk with your agency recruiter about your housing options and what will work best for you.

How Long Are Travel Nursing Assignments?

Some travel nursing opportunities can be as short as eight weeks, while others can last for up to six months at a time. There are often options and offers to extend assignments, too.

What Experience Do You Need to Be Recruited by a Travel Nursing Agency?

Most agencies require new travelers to have recent experience as a nurse—meaning you can't become a travel nurse right out of nursing school. A year or two of experience is commonly required. A qualified nurse may also need more experience to work in the intensive care unit (ICU) or another specialty area.

Can Travel Nurses Choose Where They Work?

Yes, and that's generally a benefit of the job. Some agencies work to assign candidates throughout the United States, while others place travel nurses internationally. Before deciding to work with an agency, it makes sense to find out where they place travel nurses if you have a specific placement location in mind.

Methodology

We reviewed more than 20 agencies and studied hundreds of reviews from travel nurses around the country to identify the best travel nursing agencies. We then analyzed company quality and customer service scores across multiple sources to determine which companies are most reputable. Wages, housing options, and benefits were also a top priority. We reviewed the range of assignments, as well as the quantity and quality of each agency's listings in all 50 states.

VERYWELL Health / Design by Amelia Manley

U.S. Department of Labor. U.S. Department of Labor announces $80M funding opportunity to help train, expand, diversify nursing workforce, address shortage of nurses .

Healthcare Research & Analytics. Social listening: Evaluation of travel nurse companies: Analysis of travel nurse sentiment towards travel nurse companies .

BluePipes. Best Travel Nursing Companies 2022 .

The Best Travel Nursing Companies 2023

The best travel nursing companies for 2023 are here! This year, we evaluated over 420 travel nursing agencies by aggregating over 160,000 reviews from 6 leading review sources. Then, we used our transparent scoring system to determine the top 20 travel nursing agencies for 2023.

This is the seventh year in a row that we’ve spent massive amounts of time collecting the scores and compiling a list of the best travel nursing companies. We are compelled to do this each year for several reasons.

Important and Difficult to find the Best Travel Nursing Companies

First, travel nursing agencies provide highly impactful services to travel healthcare professionals. As a result, service levels can have a profound effect on a travel healthcare professional’s career and even life in general.

Meanwhile, it’s very difficult to determine which travel nursing companies are performing the best. This is mostly because there are tons of agencies with reviews scattered across multiple review sources. As a result, an agency might look amazing on one review website and a disastrous on another.

Moreover, the internet is experiencing a proliferation of best travel nursing agency lists. Unfortunately, most of these lists are subpar or entirely worthless. For example, there are lists on the first page of Google right now which include companies that have been closed for years and others that have verifiably horrible service records.

How BluePipes Ranks the Best Travel Nursing Companies Each Year

By contrast, BluePipes conducts a rigorous process to determine the best travel nursing companies each year. First, we collect the number of reviews and review scores for every agency we can find on the 6 different review websites we check. We enter the numbers into a spreadsheet and calculate the aggregate average score for each agency. Then, we compare the current year’s scores to the previous year’s scores and award bonuses or penalties based on score increases or decreases.

Find your next travel healthcare job on BluePipes!

The process is transparent and reproduceable for anyone who wanted to collect the scores and run the calculations. Here are the 6 review sources we used in 2023:

Rating Services We Aggregate

• Highway Hypodermics
• Travel Nursing Central

We provide a detailed review of each rating service, some interesting observations and a sample of our scoring system below. For now, please consider every travel nursing agency on our list. They all scored exceptionally well. Moreover, different companies provide different services and we’re confident you’ll find the right fit if you consider all the amazing companies here.

Use BluePipes to Land Jobs with the Best Travel Nursing Agencies

Of course, this might sound like a ton of work. But that’s why we created BluePipes . You can communicate with nearly every company on this list through our platform. You can apply to jobs with many of these companies on our powerful travel nursing job board .

We have the original universal profile builder which includes a free travel nursing resume builder , document storage, skills checklists and more. We even have the industry’s most powerful travel nursing pay calculator . Select the button below to join over 100,000 healthcare professionals who are simplifying their careers and maximizing their pay with BluePipes.

Best Travel Nursing Companies 2023

Here are the best travel nursing agencies of 2023:

Now let’s take a look at some specific details about each of the best travel nursing companies on our list.

1. Atlas MedStaff

It’s been a long time coming for Atlas MedStaff to make the number one spot on our list. We say that for a couple of reasons. First, Atlas MedStaff has been on our list for 6 out of the last 7 years. Second, Atlas MedStaff receives tons of love from their travelers on social media where we routinely see travelers recommending Atlas and/or extoling Atlas’s virtues more than we see it for any other company.

Atlas MedStaff had a great year in reviews. Their aggregate average score increased to 94.56 on 110 new reviews.  Additionally, Highway Hypodermics named Atlas MedStaff one of their top companies for 2023 .

Reviews for Atlas MedStaff describe recruiters who are patient, responsive and knowledgeable. Atlas MedStaff offers a robust set of benefits including 401(k), license and certification reimbursements, continuing education program, paid bereavement leave and much more.

Atlas MedStaff places RNs, LPNs and various allied candidates in travel assignments nationwide. They have access to a large volume of jobs and great relationships with their staffing partners which helps ensure that they can land you the jobs you want in the locations you want.

2. Uniti Med

Uniti Med was founded in 2021 and they’re already making our list at the number 2 spot! This comes as no surprise to those who know this company. The two founders had over 50 years of combined experience in the staffing industry prior to starting the company. They’ve built an amazing team who lives the company motto every day, “The medical staffing agency with heart.”

Unit Med had an amazing year in reviews. They received 352 new reviews this year, bringing their total to 397 all time. The have the second highest aggregate average score of any company on our list at 98.15.

Uniti Med’s reviews describe a company that puts their travelers first. Reviewers appreciate that Uniti Med’s recruiters go all out to find the assignments they’re looking for. Travelers appreciate that Uniti’s recruiters are quick to respond to inquiries and always follow up promptly.

Uniti Med is based in Omaha, Nebraska. They staff nurses and allied health professionals nationwide.

3. Travel Nurses Inc

Travel Nurses Inc debuts on our list at number 3 this year. However, their sister company, OR Nurses Nationwide, was our number 1 company in 2017 so this organization has a track record of delivering exceptional service.

Travel Nurses Inc’s aggregate average score increased to 94.15 this year from 91.19 the previous year. They also received bonus points for their higher scores on GlassDoor and Google.

Travel Nurses Inc was founded by nurses so they have a deep understanding of both sides of the equation. They pride themselves on providing world class service at every stage of your engagement with them. This includes a mandatory step they call the “Engagement Letter Review” in which recruiters review every important detail of the contract prior to start. This way, healthcare professionals don’t run into any surprises with Travel Nurses Inc. We should also mention that they have a really great job board too !

Travel Nurses Inc is based in Memphis, Tennessee. They staff nurses and allied health professionals nationwide.

4. Health Providers Choice

Health Providers Choice was Highway Hypodermics number 1 company this year. They come in at number 4 on our list. This is their second time making our list. They’ve made Highway Hypodermics list every year but one since 2014!

Travelers rave about the organized and efficient onboarding process with Health Providers Choice. They also mention that the recruiters are quick to respond and highly knowledgeable.

Health Providers Choice has a comprehensive benefits package. They have more than one clinical liaison. They will have someone available 24/7/365 for travelers to call in case of emergency. Health Providers Choice is a member NATHO and they’ve been JCAHO certified since 2005.

Health Provers Choice is located in Rochester Hills, Michigan. They staff nurses and allied health professionals nationwide.

5. Focus Staff

We’ve always known that Focus Staff is a great travel nursing company. This year, their review scores proved it. Their aggregate average score increased by nearly 5 points to 91.46. They added 193 new reviews this year, bringing their total number of reviews to 479.

Focus Staff’s reviewers love how attentive their recruiters are. You’ll see frequent mentions of regular check-ins from recruiters. You’ll also see mentions that Focus Staff’s recruiters are great listeners as well as communicators.

Focus Staff is based in Dallas, Texas. They staff nurses and allied professionals nationwide.

6. Junxion Med Staffing

We’re thrilled so see Junxion Med Staffing on our list this year. We’ve always known that they provide great service. However, they’re a smaller company so they hadn’t met our minimum review count in the past. They crossed that threshold this year and landed at number 6 on our list.

How does that happen? Well, Junxion has the highest aggregate average score, 98.16, of all the companies on our list. They made our list based on that alone, no bonus points necessary.

Junxion’s founder was a traveling Certified Surgical Technologist before founding the company. They are based in Fort Worth, Texas. They staff nursing and allied professionals nationwide.

7. Ventura MedStaff

Ventura MedStaff was founded in 2018. This is their second time on our list. They came in at number 6 in 2020.

Ventura has an aggregate average score of 95.71 on 166 reviews. They have great review scores on every review source.

Ventura MedStaff has multiple recruiters who were once travel healthcare professionals themselves. They have a management team with over 5 decades of experience in the industry. Traveler reviews describe a company that is organized, hardworking and fun loving.

Ventura MedStaff is based in Omaha, Nebraska. They staff nursing and allied professionals nationwide.

8. Stability Healthcare

Stability Healthcare makes our list for the third year in a row. They tallied up 240 new reviews this year, bringing their total number of reviews to 755. Their aggregate average score is 96.48 which is really high for having such a large number of reviews.

Reviewers describe their Stability recruiters as attentive, competent, caring and transparent. They also describe a highly organized onboarding process.

That said, Stability Healthcare also has highly robust and beautifully designed web and mobile applications. These platforms allow travel healthcare professionals to search for jobs, build their profile and ultimately submit themselves for jobs. As a result, travelers have access to the best of both worlds with Stability Healthcare.

Stability Healthcare is based in Los Angeles, California. They staff nursing and allied health professionals nationwide.

9. MedUS Healthcare

MedUS Healthcare is another company that’s making our list for the first time and we’re here for it! With 34 new reviews this year, MedUS broke the 50-review minimum to make our list. Their aggregate average score is a whopping 97.73!

MedUS’s motto is, “Better people. Better outcomes.” At their core, they’re a company that accepts that different people engage in travel healthcare for different reasons. As a result, they seek to understand what your goals are and then tailor their approach to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

MedUS is based in Cincinnati, Ohio. They staff nursing and allied health professionals nationwide.

10. Cariant Health Partners

Cariant Health Partners makes our list for the third time in four years. They came in this year with an aggregate average score of 94.24 on 195 total reviews. Their bonus points brought their score up to 97.65.

In their reviews, travelers describe recruiters who are caring, diligent and organized. Several of Cariant’s staff are former travelers themselves. That includes the founders who were a traveling PT and nurse duo prior to starting the company.

Cariant Health Partners is based in Omaha, Nebraska. They staff travel nurses and allied professionals nationwide.

11. Host Healthcare

Host Healthcare is true powerhouse of world class service. They’ve been on our list every year since 2017. They were number one in 2020 and number 3 last year. They are also routinely on Highway Hypodermics list where they were number 1 in 2021 and 2022.

Host Healthcare added a whopping 1320 new review this year. To put that in perspective, only one company on our list has more total reviews than Host’s new reviews for this year alone. Obviously, Host Healthcare has the most total reviews on our list by far with 4269.

Meanwhile, Host boasts an aggregate average review of 97.13. This is absolutely amazing given the volume of reviews they’ve received.

Host Healthcare is based in San Diego, CA. They staff nursing and allied health professionals nationwide.

12. Trusted Nurse Staffing

Trusted Nurse Staffing makes our list for the second year in a row, coming in at number 12 this year. They added 156 new reviews this year. Their aggregate average score increased slightly to 96.66 on 659 total reviews.

Trusted Nurse Staffing’s reviews describe recruiters who are quick to reply, thorough and honest. Reviewers also love the pay rates and benefits that Trusted Nurse Staffing offers.

Buffalo Business First awarded Trusted Nurse Staffing first place in their Best Places to Work large business category. Buffalo’s Democrat and Chronicle also recognized Trusted Nurse Staffing in their Top Places to Work awards. Moreover, Trusted Nurse Staffing launched a new job board called Pronto this year!

Trusted Nurse Staffing is based in Buffalo, New York. They celebrated their 15 th birthday this year. They staff nurses and allied health professionals nationwide.

13. CrossMed Healthcare

CrossMed Healthcare makes our list for the second year in a row. That’s a great track record given that the company was founded in 2019!

This year, CrossMed received 136 new reviews. Their aggregate average score is 96.72. The reviews indicate that CrossMed is a great company for new and experienced travelers alike. Additionally, CrossMed won an award for being one of Omaha’s best places to work this year!

CrossMed is based in Omaha, Nebraska. They staff nurses and allied health professionals nationwide.

14. Advantis Medical

Advantis Medical has achieved a significant milestone by being included on our list for the fourth time in the past five years. This accomplishment is particularly impressive considering they only began operations five years ago.

This year, Advantis received an impressive 426 new reviews, many of which were five-star ratings. With an aggregate average score of 93.69, their reviews consistently highlight several key themes. Recruiters at Advantis Medical are known for their prompt responsiveness, extensive knowledge, thoroughness, transparency, and enjoyable conversations.

Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, Advantis Medical specializes in staffing nurses and allied health professionals across the nation. They provide clinicians with the option to work with a specialized Pro Recruiter or explore job opportunities on their online travel nursing job board .

15. Coast Medical Service

This is Coast Medical Service’s second year in a row on our list. They added 74 new reviews this year, bringing their total number of reviews to 228. Their aggregate average score is 94.65.

Coast Medical Services has been in business since 1979! They offer travel contracts, per diem, block scheduling and permanent placement services. They pride themselves on delivering world class customer service and developing meaningful relationships with the healthcare professionals they serve.

Coast Medical Services is based in Hermosa Beach, California. They staff nursing and allied health professionals nationwide.

16. Ethos Medical Staffing

Ethos Medical Staffing makes our list for the first time and we’re excited to see it. Their reviews tell the tale of an enthusiastic, diligent and knowledgeable team that loves to connect healthcare professionals with their ideal roles.

Ethos Medical Staffing’s aggregate average score is 95.56 on 109 total reviews. This is the first year we evaluated them, so they make the list based on the strength of their impressive aggregate average score alone.

Ethos Medical Staffing is based in Lenexa, Kansas. They staff nursing and allied health professionals nationwide.

17. TotalMed Staffing

TotalMed Staffing makes our list for the fourth time. They received 447 new reviews this year. That brings their total 1663 reviews.

TotalMed was founded in 2005. They have received countless awards over the years. For example, they were on Travel Nursing Central’s list of best travel nursing companies from 20015 to 2020. They have been on Highway Hypodermics list a number of years including this year at number 8.

TotalMed staffs nurses and allied health professionals nationwide. They have access to high volume of jobs via partnerships with VMSs and MSPs, direct relationships and their own MSP service.

18. Axis Medical Staffing

Axis Medical Staffing has made our list every single year. They were number one last year! Axis also make the lists of Highway Hypodermics and Travel Nursing Central nearly every year. They are number 6 on Highway Hypodermics this year!

Axis Medical Staffing has an aggregate average score of 95.23 on 910 reviews. The reviews indicate that travelers simply love everything about Axis. One reviewer on Google described their Axis recruiter as, “…a real-life Mary Poppins.” We’re confident that Axis Medical Staffing can make all your travel healthcare dreams come true.

Axis Medical Staffing is based in Seattle, Washington. They staff nursing and various allied health professionals nationwide.

19. KPG Healthcare

This is KPG Healthcare’s first time on our list and we’re happy to see them here! They have an aggregate average score of 93.23. They received 114 new reviews this year.

KPG’s main goal is to exceed your expectations in the process of assisting you to find high quality, rewarding career opportunities. Their reviews indicate they are doing just that.

KPG Healthcare is based in El Segundo, California with offices in Las Vegas, Nevada and Scottsdale, Arizona. They staff nurses, physicians and allied health professionals nationwide. They recently launched a service to assist Canadian nurses land employment opportunities in the US !

20. CoreMedical Group

CoreMedical Group makes our list for the third time. They received 152 new reviews this year, bringing their total to 680.

The reviews describe a company that is dedicated to providing world-class service. One travel nurse explained that they had been with CoreMedical since 2020 and that there is nowhere else they’d rather work.

CoreMedical was founded in 1989. They are based in beautiful Manchester, New Hampshire. They staff nurses, physicians and allied health professionals nationwide.

Background on BluePipes Best Travel Nursing Companies

We’re certain that you’ll find multiple great companies who can meet your needs if you consider all 20 companies on our list. That said, we want you to have the same confidence that we do. To that end, let’s quickly review everything you need to know.

Our Review Sources

As we mentioned above, we aggregate scores from six review sources. We do not use reviews from our own website because we do not have a review feature yet. Perhaps more importantly, the 6 review sources we use are all highly trusted, publicly accessible and have a critical mass of reviews.

We do not accept payment to make it on our list. Some of the companies on the list are customers of ours and others are not. Also, we have lots of customers who don’t make the list.

By and large, our scoring system is transparent and reproducible. Of course, that’s if anybody wants to take the crazy amount of time necessary to compile the scores.

Some of our review sources accept reviews from internal staff and travel staff. We’re good with that. Great companies are great for both travelers and internal staff. No company could possibly make our list by catering to only one side of the equation as their scores would never be high enough.

Please note that we scour the reviews of the top companies in an effort to find fake reviews. We disqualify companies if we see them.

Sample Breakdown of our Best Travel Nursing Agency Scoring System

Now, let’s take a look at how the scoring breaks down for Advantis Medical, the number 14 company on our list.

Collecting the Scores

First, we visit Advantis’s company page on each of the 6 review sources. We enter the number of reviews and the score for each review source into a spreadsheet.

Here are the scores we collected for Advantis this year:

How We Calculate the Aggregate Average Score

Next, we calculate the aggregate average score. To calculate this score, we must convert all the scores to a common scoring scale because the review sources use different scoring scales. TNC uses a 100-point scale. HH uses a 20-point scale. The others use a 5-point scale. So, we convert them all to a 100-point scale.

Here are Advantis’s converted scores for each review source.

Next, we calculate values for the 2 variables we need to calculate the aggregate average score. The first is the total number of reviews. The second is the total value of all the review scores.

Finally, we divide the aggregate total by the total number of reviews to get the Aggregate Average Score for 2023. Here is Advantis’s calculation for 2023:

Aggregate Difference Score

Next, we determine the Aggregate Difference score by comparing the Aggregate Average Score for 2023 to the Aggregate Average Score for 2022.

We follow these guidelines for the aggregate difference score:

Minimum Requirements for the Aggregate Difference Score

• To qualify for this score, a company must have had more than 50 total reviews in the previous year. This qualification ensures some modicum of adequate sample size.
• We cap this score at plus or minus 5 points per company. This qualification also works to ensure some modicum of adequate sample size.

Advantis’s aggregate average score for 2022 was 93.43142857. Their aggregate average score for 2023 is 93.68865979.

So, we subtract 93.43142857 from 93.6886598. We are left with + 0.257231222.

Therefore, Advantis receives a bonus of + 0.257231222 added to their aggregate average score for 2023. 93.68865979 + 0.257231222 = 93.70648001.

And yes, all those decimal places are necessary. For example, our number 9 and 10 companies are separated by less than .08 of a point this year.

The Individual Difference Score

Next, we calculate an “individual difference score” for each rating service. Like the aggregate difference score, the individual difference score doles out bonuses or penalties based on the difference between last year’s score and this year’s score for each rating service.

The Individual Difference Score has several guidelines and qualifiers. We choose to keep this scoring mechanism private to ensure that content farms and other content-scoundrels don’t steal our scoring system like they do everything else.

However, if you’re a traveler or staffing agency who would like a full breakdown of everything, then simply contact us and we’ll be happy to discuss all the details with you.

Meeting the Minimum Requirements

Once we have all the scores tallied, we can rank the companies from highest to lowest score. Finally, we check each of the top-ranking companies to make sure they meet our minimum requirements below.

Minimum Requirements for Best Travel Nursing Companies

• A company must have a minimum of 50 total reviews across all platforms. That’s not 50 for each platform, but 50 for all platforms combined.
• A company must have a minimum of 15 new reviews from healthcare professionals in the last year.
• A company must not have malicious fake reviews.

Again, these requirements ensure that the companies on our list have an adequate sample size of legitimate reviews.

Advantis has 776 total reviews. Therefore, they meet our minimum requirement of 50.

Next, we look to determine if they have 15 reviews from healthcare professionals within the past year. Advantis had 426 new reviews this year. They had 44 new reviews on Highway Hypodermics alone. Since HH only accepts reviews from healthcare professionals, Advantis met their quota on this review source alone.

Finally, we checked Advantis’s reviews for “malicious fake reviews”. We didn’t find any.

What are malicious fake reviews? Well, there are many different types of fake reviews. For example, we saw a lot of fake reviews on Facebook this year that were actually promoting cryptocurrency with the review comments. The travel nursing company is more of a victim than a villain in this case.

By contrast, a malicious fake review is one that promotes the agency and is clearly not real. For example, we’ve seen cases where large numbers of foreign reviewers leave reviews for American travel nursing companies.

Wow, that was a very wonky review our scoring system! If you’re still awake, then you’re probably ready for bed! But, you’re an expert on our scoring system!!

As always, we hope you found this information useful. Please contact us with any questions or concerns about our ranking system. And, join BluePipes for free so you can manage your travel healthcare career with ease!

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9 Best States to Travel Nurse in 2023

Work-life balance has jumped to the top of the list when it comes to career planning, and within the nursing field, this is no exception. The past few years have spotlighted the many challenges nurses face—understaffing and burnout being two primary issues. Today, healthcare workers are leaving behind longtime traditional roles for the freedom and lifestyle that travel nursing provides. 

As a travel nurse, you can pursue your passion while benefiting from a flexible work-anywhere lifestyle. Paired with a trusted travel nursing agency  like MAS Medical, you can also enjoy full-time benefits like health insurance, 401k compensation, weekly pay, and so much more. But which states should you consider as a traveler? 

With an abundance of opportunities, this is a question best answered by you. To help you find the best state to travel nurse, we’ve made a comprehensive list.

Why Should I Become A Travel Nurse?

To start, travel nurses benefit from higher salaries, flexible schedules, and the ability to see the country through short-term contracts, all while supporting healthcare systems in dire need of additional staff. 

With the need for travel nurses continuing to rise, the best places to travel can earn you upwards of the national average travel nurse salary of $3,000 per week – depending on specialty, experience, and demand. With regular registered nurse salaries staying stagnant alongside increased demands by employers, the exponential earning potential of travel nursing and malleable lifestyle it provides should make it a career change to consider. 

SEE ALSO: 10 Pros and Cons of Travel Nursing

Best States for Travel Nurse Assignments

Ready to pack your bags and make the leap into the exciting world of travel nursing? We’ve compiled nine of the best states to work in as a travel nurse for work-life balance and career advancement. 

And don’t forget the compensation—you’ll also find the average weekly salary for each state in our list.  

We’ve got the details on all the best states to travel as a nurse. Keep reading to find your ideal location and get in touch with our recruitment team today to start planning your next placement.  

1. Massachusetts

If you’re looking for the amenities of a bustling metropolis that’s steeped in history and culture, Boston and its surrounding areas may be the perfect spot for your next nursing stop. Boston is home to Massachusetts General Hospital, ranked in the top 10 of “America’s Best Hospitals” for 2022-2023.  

While Harvard, baked beans, and Fenway Park are synonymous with Boston, Massachusetts has much more to offer. The idyllic seashores of Cape Cod and historical haunts like Salem make Massachusetts one of the best states to travel as a nurse. Explore the traveling nurse jobs in Massachusetts with MAS medical.

Average Travel Nurse Salary In Massachusetts: 

$2,249 per week

As a retirement hub, Florida has an aging population with no shortage of demand for healthcare workers. Jacksonville boasts the best healthcare in the state with Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, but there are plenty of other parts of Florida in need of nurses that will fit the bill for your next travel nurse appointment. 

Whether you’re a Disney superfan destined for Orlando or want to dig deep into the Miami club scene, Florida is one of the best states to travel as a nurse. Enjoy your nurse’s salary tax-free, while soaking in warm sunshine and endless beach days during your free time.

Average Travel Nurse Salary in Florida: 

$1,892 per week

3. North Carolina

Besides the comfortable mid-atlantic weather and easy-going lifestyle, North Carolina is also a state with no shortage of travel nurse opportunities. Between pandemic burnout and an aging nurse population nearing retirement, the demand for new nurses is expected to almost double in the next ten years.

Cities like Raleigh and Charlotte will give you a taste of southern city living, while places like Asheville boast bucolic rolling hills and a thriving arts culture. Plus, the state boasts top-rated medical facilities like the UNC Hospital system and Duke University Hospital where you can acquire skills and experience to advance your nursing career. 

Average Travel Nurse Salary in North Carolina: 

$1,622 per week 

4. South Carolina

South Carolina ranks in the top five for projected nursing shortages, with an expected need for more than 10,000 nurses by 2023. The high demand could keep travel nurse salaries rising, leaving you lots of extra spending money for your next day out at Myrtle Beach. 

South Carolina is filled with history and culture to compliment its sandy coastline. Its largest city, Charleston, is a world-class travel destination with loads of historic charm and is home to the highly-rated MUSC Health University Medical Center. 

Average Travel Nurse Salary in South Carolina: 

$1,924 per week

5. Connecticut

A hop and a skip from the major metros of New York and Boston, Connecticut is the perfect place if you’re looking for a quaint New England experience with access to an abundance of amenities. Connecticut boasts the perfect blend of coastal towns and rural beauty alongside cultural hotspots like Mystic Seaport and Yale University.

With hospitals like Yale New Haven Hospital, Hartford Memorial Hospital, and Manchester Memorial Hospital in need of travel nurses, there’s no shortage of opportunities if you want to add Connecticut to your travel nurse road map. 

Average Travel Nurse Salary in Connecticut: 

$2,153 per week

6. Virginia

Virginia offers both the bustle of being near our nation’s capital and the relaxed vacation vibes of Virginia Beach, making it a top contender for the best state to travel as a nurse. And since it’s a member of the nurse licensure compact, you can easily transition to your next appointment once you’ve spent enough time exploring Mount Vernon and Monticello. 

In Virginia, you’ll have access to a wide variety of experiences like the natural beauty of the Appalachian Trail and the rich cultural history of Colonial Williamsburg. Plus, gaining experience working at top-rated state of the art medical facilities like University of Virginia Medical Center and VCU Medical Center will be a big boon for your resume. 

Average Travel Nurse Salary in Virginia: 

$2,021 per week 

7. Rhode Island

With its picturesque seaside coastal towns and culture aplenty, Rhode Island is one of the best places to travel as a nurse. While Rhode Island may be the smallest of the U.S. states, you can earn a pretty penny as a travel nurse in Providence, Warwick, or Cranston. 

When you’re not taking care of patients in the operating room at Rhode Island Hospital, which boasts the state’s only level I trauma center, you can enjoy sailing and swaying to the sweet sounds of the Newport Folk Festival. 

Average Travel Nurse Salary in Rhode Island: 

$2,131 per week 

8. New Hampshire

If you have a passion for the outdoors and high peaks, try a travel nursing gig amidst the White Mountains of New Hampshire and embrace the state’s “live free” lifestyle. Plus, New Hampshire is one of the highest paying states for traveling nurses. 

Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant culture of Concord or the slower pace of Keene, New Hampshire is a little state with a lot to offer. And since New Hampshire is sandwiched in the middle of New England, you’ll have easy access for getaways to neighboring states when you want a break from the breathtaking mountains. 

Average Travel Nurse Salary in New Hampshire: 

$2,387 per week

While Maine has been facing a massive nursing shortage, the state has made a major investment in education to get more nurses trained and into the workforce. Even with these increased efforts, the state will still be short almost 1,500 nurses by 2025. You’ll get excellent experience for your resume in Maine, too—Maine General Health in Augusta was ranked one of the best hospitals in the world by Newsweek .  

Although Acadia National Park is the state’s star, there’s plenty of camping and hiking to enjoy  throughout the state. Coupled with its stunning coastlines and breathtaking natural beauty, Maine is an ideal location for lobster loving travel nurses to enjoy the laid-back downeast lifestyle from Bangor to Portland. 

Average Travel Nurse Salary in Maine:

$2,282 per week 

How to Find Travel Nursing Jobs with MAS Medical

While working in the medical field is full of complications and tough situations, finding your next travel nursing assignment is simple when you have 24/7 support. 

As a leading travel nurse agency , we partner with you to find the right location to fit your needs and help you grow your medical career. You’ll also have access to industry-leading compensation packages including health insurance, generous housing stipends, referral bonuses, and an exclusive rewards program. Let us assist you in finding a placement in the best state to travel as a nurse and get ready to embark on your next adventure. 

When you’re ready for your traveling healthcare job search, let us walk you through everything you need to know about licensing, housing, and more. Contact us today to start mapping your course as a travel nurse—we’ll be your partner every step of the way.

#1 Megha K. Shah MD. Prevalence of and factors associated with nurse burnout in the US. JAMA Network Open. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2775923. Published February 4, 2021. Accessed September 30, 2022.

#2 Lake S. Travel nurses can cash in at more than $3,000 per week. Fortune. https://fortune.com/education/business/articles/2022/09/23/travel-nurses-can-cash-in-at-more-than-3000-per-week/. Published September 23, 2022. Accessed September 30, 2022.

#3 What is the average RN salary by state in 2022? – ziprecruiter. https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/What-Is-the-Average-RN-Salary-by-State. Accessed September 30, 2022.

#4 America’s best hospitals: The 2022-2023 honor roll and overview. https://health.usnews.com/health-care/best-hospitals/articles/best-hospitals-honor-roll-and-overview. Accessed September 30, 2022.

#5 Hoban R. Within a decade, NC could be short more than 21,000 nurses. North Carolina Health News. https://www.northcarolinahealthnews.org/2022/03/02/within-a-decade-nc-could-see-nursing-shortage-of-more-than-21000/. Published March 2, 2022. Accessed September 30, 2022.

#6 Catherine Burger MSOL. The places with the largest nursing shortages. The Places with the Largest Nursing Shortages. https://www.registerednursing.org/articles/largest-nursing-shortages/. Published August 5, 2022. Accessed September 30, 2022.

#7 Clarke T. Expansion of nursing education could help with state shortage of nurses. WMTW. https://www.wmtw.com/article/expansion-of-nursing-education-could-help-with-state-shortage-of-nurses/39301894#. Published March 2, 2022. Accessed September 30, 2022.

#8 Mainegeneral is committed to your care. MaineGeneral Health. https://www.mainegeneral.org/about-us/news/2022/mainegeneral-included-in-worlds-best-hospitals-list/. Accessed September 30, 2022.

Nick Gypsy, Principal Nursing Recruiter: Nick was a former traveler turned nurse recruiter, having completed 32 assignments and 13 FEMA deployments. While traveling, he was able to finish nursing school and further his career debt-free. Nick was able to do all of this for a career of his passion. He began blogging about his experience and providing advice through the social media platform TikTok under the username NickMurse. Nick has gained a mass following of over 100,000 travel nurses. He started with MAS in early August, 2021 and has enjoyed sharing his insight with his travel nurses. Nick lives in coastal Florida, and in his spare time, he enjoys going to the beach and jet skiing.

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Top 20 Travel Destinations For Retired Boomers In 2024

Posted: November 29, 2023 | Last updated: November 29, 2023

Charleston, South Carolina, USA:

With its historic charm, southern hospitality, and a relaxed pace of life, Charleston is an ideal destination for retirees. Explore cobblestone streets, antebellum architecture, and savor Lowcountry cuisine.

Cuenca, Ecuador:

Nestled in the Andes, Cuenca boasts a mild climate, affordable living, and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed city center. Retirees can enjoy cultural events, vibrant markets, and the beauty of the surrounding mountains.

Lisbon, Portugal:

Lisbon combines Old World charm with a modern flair. Retirees can wander through historic neighborhoods, indulge in delicious cuisine, and enjoy the city’s picturesque views and mild climate.

Bangkok, Thailand:

For retirees seeking a vibrant city with cultural richness and affordability, Bangkok is a top choice. Explore temples, taste exquisite street food, and experience the warmth of Thai hospitality.

Cape Town, South Africa:

Nestled between mountains and sea, Cape Town offers retirees stunning landscapes, diverse culture, and a welcoming atmosphere. Explore Table Mountain, visit historic sites, and enjoy the vibrant arts scene.

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico:

This UNESCO World Heritage city in Mexico captivates retirees with its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and a lively arts scene. Enjoy a laid-back lifestyle, cultural festivals, and friendly locals.

Valletta, Malta:

Malta’s capital, Valletta, is a treasure trove of history and culture. Retirees can explore ancient fortifications, wander through charming streets, and enjoy the Mediterranean climate.

Chiang Mai, Thailand:

Known for its temples, markets, and natural beauty, Chiang Mai provides retirees with a peaceful retreat in northern Thailand. Experience Thai traditions, explore the Old City, and enjoy the mountainous surroundings.

Seville, Spain:

Seville, with its flamenco music, historic architecture, and sunny weather, beckons retirees. Dive into the city’s rich culture, stroll through picturesque neighborhoods, and savor tapas in charming cafes.

George Town, Malaysia:

George Town, on the island of Penang, offers retirees a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Explore vibrant street art, indulge in diverse cuisine, and experience the cultural melting pot.

Medellín, Colombia:

Once known for its tumultuous past, Medellín has transformed into a thriving city. Retirees can enjoy a pleasant climate, explore botanical gardens, and experience the warmth of Colombian hospitality.

Aix-en-Provence, France:

Aix-en-Provence, nestled in the heart of Provence, is a haven for retirees seeking a blend of history, art, and gastronomy. Explore charming markets, stroll through historic squares, and savor local wines.

Ubud, Bali, Indonesia:

Ubud, surrounded by lush landscapes, rice terraces, and traditional Balinese culture, is a retreat for retirees seeking tranquility. Engage in yoga, visit art galleries, and immerse yourself in the local way of life.

Galway, Ireland:

Galway, on Ireland’s west coast, enchants retirees with its friendly atmosphere, lively music scene, and coastal beauty. Explore historic streets, enjoy traditional Irish pubs, and experience the warmth of the locals.

Granada, Spain:

Granada, with its iconic Alhambra, offers retirees a glimpse into Spain’s Moorish history. Wander through the Albaicín, enjoy tapas in bustling markets, and savor the city’s cultural richness.

Cusco, Peru:

Cusco, the gateway to Machu Picchu, combines Inca heritage with colonial charm. Retirees can explore ancient ruins, stroll through Plaza de Armas, and enjoy the Andean landscapes.

Hoi An, Vietnam:

Hoi An’s well-preserved architecture, lantern-lit streets, and culinary delights make it a charming destination for retirees. Explore the Old Town, indulge in local cuisine, and enjoy the city’s relaxed pace.

Brisbane, Australia:

Brisbane, with its riverside parks, cultural events, and subtropical climate, appeals to retirees seeking an urban Australian experience. Explore museums, attend festivals, and enjoy outdoor activities.

Oaxaca, Mexico:

Oaxaca’s colonial charm, vibrant markets, and indigenous culture make it an enticing destination for retirees. Dive into the city’s culinary scene, explore archaeological sites, and partake in local festivities.

Florence, Italy:

Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, invites retirees to immerse themselves in art, history, and Italian charm. Wander through museums, savor Tuscan cuisine, and experience the city’s timeless beauty.

“I Can’t Tell Anyone This Or It’ll Ruin My Life” – 11 Secrets People Share That They Can’t Tell Anyone

Secrets can weigh heavy on our hearts, and some are so profound that sharing them could potentially turn our lives upside down. In a social media thread, users revealed secrets they’ve been harboring, ones they fear could shatter their world if ever exposed. From workplace confessions to family mysteries, these stories offer a glimpse into the hidden burdens some carry.

Things Most People Don’t Know About the Bible

The Bible, a sacred text with a history spanning thousands of years, holds within its pages a wealth of knowledge, wisdom, and intriguing stories. While many are familiar with its most famous tales, there’s a trove of lesser-known details and nuances that often go unnoticed.

10 Things Most People Don’t Know About the Bible

Secret Societies That Control our World: Illuminati, Freemasons, and More

Prepare to journey into the shadowy world of secret societies, where intrigue, power, and conspiracy theories abound! Scroll through as we unveil the enigmatic realm of organizations that have captured imaginations and sparked wild speculations for centuries.

10 Secret Societies That Control our World: Illuminati, Freemasons, and More

Dead Giveaways That Someone Doesn’t Have a Life

In the age of constant connectivity, it’s not uncommon to come across people who seem to lack a life outside of their particular quirks and obsessions. Many users on a social media thread have shared their insights into what they consider “dead giveaways” that someone might be lacking in the life department.

11 Dead Giveaways That Someone Doesn’t Have a Life

Ingenious Scams That Have Fooled People All Across The World

In today’s digitally interconnected world, clever scams have become increasingly sophisticated, targeting individuals from all walks of life. These scams are designed to exploit human vulnerabilities, often leaving victims emotionally and financially devastated.

In this list, we’ll explore 15 incredibly clever scams that are active today, delving into their tactics, providing real-life examples of individuals who fell victim, and highlighting the importance of staying vigilant in an age where deception is on the rise.

15 Ingenious Scams That Have Fooled People All Across The World

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The top 5 U.S. cities to retire if you don't have any savings—only 1 is in Florida

If you've got nothing saved for retirement , you're not alone.

Nearly 30% of Americans have $0 saved for retirement, per recent data from personal finance website GOBankingRates . Another 33% have less than $50,000 saved.

If you fall into either category and you're approaching retirement age, it may be time to start preparing to live on a smaller budget after you stop working, says Anne Lester, a retirement expert and author of " Your Best Financial Life: Save Smart Now for the Future You Want ."

"You'll need to start thinking about how you can start paring back your standard of living and gradually get used to having less money to spend post-retirement," she tells CNBC Make It.

If you don't have much money saved up in a retirement account such as a 401(k) or a Roth IRA, you may need to rely on your Social Security benefit to cover your expenses — which may not go very far. The average monthly benefit i s around $1,773 as of February, per the Social Security Administration.

With that in mind, GOBankingRates analyzed the 100 biggest U.S. cities with a large population of residents over 65 to determine the best place to retire on little to no savings. It ranked each city on a variety of metrics, including the city's average home value, annual grocery costs, annual utilities costs and whether the state taxes Social Security benefits.

The study used data from a range of sources, including the U.S. Census Bureau's 2021 American Community Survey, the Tax Foundation and the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Consumer Expenditure Survey.

Here are the top five places in the U.S. to retire if you have little to no savings, according to GOBankingRates.

1. Foley, Alabama

• Percentage of population 65 and older: 31%
• Average 2023 home value: $296,232
• Social Security benefits taxed: No
• Average annual grocery costs: $4,326
• Average annual health-care costs: $8,120

2. Mountain Home, Arkansas

• Percentage of population 65 and older: 28%
• Average 2023 home value: $199,388
• Average annual grocery costs: $4,277
• Average annual health-care costs: $6,482

3. Hot Springs Village, Arkansas

• Percentage of population 65 and older: 63%
• Average 2023 home value: $289,418
• Average annual grocery costs: $4,407
• Average annual health-care costs: $6,749

4. The Villages, Florida

• Percentage of population 65 and older: 86%
• Average 2023 home value: $418,926
• Average annual grocery costs: $4,591
• Average annual health-care costs: $6,882

5. Bella Vista, Arkansas

• Percentage of population 65 and older: 32%
• Average 2023 home value: $322,770
• Average annual grocery costs: $4,385
• Average annual health-care costs: $6,461

To that point, if you're approaching retirement age and have little to nothing saved, you may need to make some tough decisions.

For instance, you may need to consider delaying your retirement in order to receive a higher Social Security benefit or picking up a part-time job to help supplement your post-work income, Lester says.

"It's time to start getting serious about how much money you'll have and how far that will go depending on where you're living," she says.

How to decide where to retire

Three out of the top five places for retiring with little to no savings are in Arkansas, which offers both advantages and disadvantages for retirees on a tight budget.

You could benefit from the state's relatively cheap cost of living and housing expenses, which are around 8% and 22% lower than the national average, respectively, according to RentCafe .

However, in exchange for cheaper living expenses, you may need to forgo some perks, such as proximity to family or variety of things to do. While Arkansas offers scenic natural beauty in the form of hot springs, caves and forests, you'd need to travel a bit in order to relax on the beach, for example.

And remember, although lists like this can provide helpful context, where you choose to retire will depend on many personal preferences outside of living costs. If you're thinking about relocating, a good rule of thumb is to visit your potential retirement destination ahead of time to get a feel for what it may be like to live there long term.

"If you think relocation is in your future and you've got the budget for it, check out some places to start seeing what's possible," Lester says.

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Travel Nursing in Alabama | Top Paying Specialties & Cities 2023

Alabama is a state full of outdoor activities, historical landmarks, and rich cultural experiences that spread from the northernmost border to the southern border. Although many people who haven’t spent time in the South associate the state with Forrest Gump or Reece Witherspoon’s time on screen, the state offers many wonderful experiences to embark on during your travels.

As with many states in the South, travel contracts will not pay as much as they do on the West Coast , but the cost of living will help make this money go much further. Alabama contains multiple large cities which ensures that specialty jobs and nursing jobs, in general, remain a constant need. Take a look at some of the beautiful coastlines and incredible food to see if Alabama might be your next destination.

Looking for travel nurse assignments in Alabama? Speak with a recruiter today!

How much do travel nurses make in Alabama?

The nature of the beast for states in the southern part of the country is that their pay rates hardly ever compete with big-name travel states. However, as we will discuss later, the cost of living in Alabama is considerably lower, and although you might be making less money than with other contracts, you will also be spending less on basic necessities.

According to Indeed.com , travel nurses in Alabama make an average of $1,910 a week, which is lower than the average travel nurse salary of $2,317. According to Indeed, the highest-paying cities within the state are as follows:

• Mobile, AL – $2,498/ week
• Tuscaloosa, AL – $2,251/ week
• Alexander City, AL – $2,238/ week
• Montgomery, AL – $2,218/ week
• Dothan, AL – $2,055/ week

Highest-paying specialties in Alabama

A trend that we’ve seen in the travel industry over the past few years remains true in Alabama – there are certain specialties that generally pay nurses substantially more than others. Our guide to the highest-paying nursing assignments can you identify these specialties. As of spring 2023 , the highest-paying specialties in Alabama are as follows

• OR- $3,513/ week
• CVOR- $3,542/ week
• Interventional Radiology- $3,219/ week
• Behavioral Health- $3,145/ week
• Med/Surg – $3,023/ week

Looking for open travel nurse assignments? Speak with a recruiter today!

Top Hospitals in Alabama

With so many hospitals to choose from, it’s important to know what qualities matter in a hospital to you:

• Does it need to specialize in a given procedure?
• Does it need to be a designated stroke or heart center?
• Is it nationally known?

Alabama has 116 hospitals, so doing your research on the hospital can have large payouts for your overall happiness and experience on your travel contract.

According to U.S. New World and Reports , these are the top-rated hospitals in Alabama.

1. University of Alabama at Birmingham

• Location : Birmingham
• Cardiology and Heart Surgery
• Diabetes and Endocrinology
• Ear, Nose, and Throat
• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Pulmonary and Lung Surgery
• Rehabilitation
• Rheumatology
• High Performing : 3 Specialties & 17 Procedures/Conditions

2. Huntsville Hospital

• Location : Huntsville
• Nationally Ranked : Not Ranked
• High Performing : 9 Procedures/Conditions

3. Ascension St. Vincent’s Birmingham

• High Performing : 7 Procedures/Conditions

4. DCH Regional Medical Center

• Location : Tuscaloosa
• High Performing : 8 Procedures/Conditions

Cost of Living for Travel Nurses in Alabama

One of the best things about moving to Alabama for a short time is that your dollar will go so much further here than in other states. According to the Missouri Economics and Research Center , Alabama is ranked as having the 4th lowest cost of living in the United States.

Zillow estimated that the average cost of a house in 2023 in Alabama was only $207,145 and the average monthly rent for a 1 bedroom was $739. Even when paying more for a furnished apartment, travel nurses will be making plenty to cover the cost of basic housing while staying in Alabama. Keep in mind that the bigger cities will always have higher rent prices than the more rural areas.

Studies on the cost of food for a household place the average American budget at $7,316 every year according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) consumer expenditure survey. However, they also project that this same budget is only $3,261 for those living in Alabama. That is less than half of the national average which does a wonderful job of exemplifying how much lower the cost of living in Alabama is compared to the rest of the country.

Pros & Cons of Travel Nursing in Alabama

Pros of travel nursing in alabama.

• Although the weather can be blistering hot and muggy in the summers, it lends to beautifully warm and mild winters. If you are searching to avoid the cold for your winter times, Alabama could be a wonderful state to explore and escape the snow and cold.
• The food is amazing. Take time while you are here to try a wide variety of fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and biscuits and gravy. Lend yourself some time in the classic Deep South and find your favorite local BBQ joint.
• Beaches on the coast, with mountains inland. What more could you ask for? There is a wide variety of landscapes and outdoor activities to fill your days off.
• There is a slower pace to life, and Southern hospitality is a real thing. Enjoy slowing down for a little bit and having genuine conversations with strangers on the street.
• Many places and things to do. With so many historical sites, there is no shortage of museums or noteworthy landmarks to spend day trips visiting.

Cons of Travel Nursing in Alabama

• Hot and muggy. The late spring through fall can have very warm temperatures with high humidity levels. This can lead to instant sweating and having to fight off larger bugs than you have ever seen anywhere else.
• Although the food is delicious, it also brings with it a rather unhealthy population living in the state. Since you will be working in the hospitals while living there, keep in mind that patients might have more comorbidities and may be generally sicker than the majority of the rest of America.
• Alcohol laws are still enforced and can make it tricky to buy liquor in some counties. Sundays and dry counties continue to add a curveball to obtaining alcohol if you do not plan ahead.
• The crime rate is slightly higher than the national average. Since poverty and crime typically mimic each other (and there is a large amount of the population living below the poverty line) this isn’t surprising. However, it is something to consider if you plan on living in some of their larger cities.

Things To Do on Your Days Off

The most visited attraction in all of Alabama is the Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville. This includes training centers, simulations, and a wealth of information about all things space travel. They host the largest space camp that brings thousands of people to the region every year to participate in all that the center has to offer.

If you are craving a day or two of relaxation or the Caribbean beach vibe, spend some time at the Gulf Shores. From this base camp, you can plan fishing trips, rent kayaks, or even plan trips to swim with dolphins.

If you enjoy golfing, the Robert Trent Golf Trail is composed of 11 different locations throughout the state with over 400 holes to play. These courses are known around the world, and some of the courses are worth a visit even if you don’t play golf due to their luxurious spas at the hotels. If you are searching for a day spent in the great outdoors, go take a hike a Cheaha State Park. This park is beautiful year-round and takes you to the highest point in the state. The colors in the fall can take your breath away, and the waterfalls in the spring and summer provide a refreshing delight from the warm temperatures.

Why Alabama?

Although it is not one of the most talked about states people mention when talking about travel nursing, Alabama can provide you with such a unique and fun experience. The Deep South culture with its warm, Southern hospitality can bring you countless new friends and kindred spirits. You can use it as a launching pad to explore the coast, the mountains of the northern part of the state, and potentially see many of the historical sites around the region.

Alabama has a low cost of living, so it can also be a great opportunity to bulk up your savings account while you are finishing your contract. Overall, this state has a lot to offer, and it can give you an experience unlike what many other states can provide when it comes to travel nursing.

Speak with a recruiter about available travel nursing assignments in Alabama!

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