Travel nursing is an exciting and lucrative career where healthcare professionals make a difference in medical facilities all over the country. There is currently a shortage of 63,000 RNs in the US, so no matter your specialty, your expertise is in such high demand that you can pick your favorite climates and cities by choosing from the vast marketplace of assignments needing a travel nurse.
This is great news whether you’re looking to hike in national forests, explore cool museums, discover the city’s nightlife, or enjoy the peace of a small town. The average traveling nurse contract is about 13 weeks, so you have plenty of time to have some real adventures every year and still spend time at home.
The question is, where are the best places for a traveling nurse to accept an assignment? To answer that question, we’re taking a deep dive into how to choose your destination and the top 10 destinations in the US.
Top 10 Destinations
1) San Francisco, CA
California is one of the states in the US with the highest demand for travel nursing and is one of the highest-paying states, too. From the coast to the inland empire, from the southern tip to the northern reaches, California encompasses many top destinations. But if we had to choose just one CA city for high pay, a great environment, and fun adventures in every direction, San Francisco would take the cake.
This legendary coastal city has something for everyone. It has the beach in every direction, mountains and forests to the North, a great festival culture, a rocking nightlife, and a thriving medical community where you will find many facilities in need of your services.
2) Denver, CO
Denver is the capital of Colorado, a glittering mountain city paired with Boulder, its smaller sister city. Denver is a great destination in terms of demand, pay, and opportunities to enjoy some incredible experiences. Denver offers skiing and other winter sports just up the mountain while maintaining a gorgeous green and eco-friendly personality in the city.
With Denver as your nexus, you’ll find a wonderful selection of assignments ranging from downtown hospitals to more relaxed suburban locations like Aurora and Lone Tree.
3) Albany, NY
New York is a bucket-list destination for millions, but taking an assignment in the heart of the legendary city is often a little intense. However, there are plenty of lucrative assignments in the beautiful tree-lined cities and towns of upstate New York, where you will enjoy New England charm, little luxuries, and the freedom to drive (or catch a train) into NYC whenever the mood strikes you.
4) Kansas City, MO
Kansas City makes the cut due to the high demand and surprisingly lively city culture. You might be surprised to know that the City of Fountains, known for its barbecue and Midwest values, has a vibrant nightlife, a history of jazz clubs, and a delightfully affordable cost of living when it comes to your temporary housing.
Kansas City is also very family-friendly, which makes it a perfect destination for travel nurses who want to bring their families along. That down-home midwestern charm is ever-present, and there are tons of activities that a family can do together whether you all move out to the assignment or your loved ones come to visit frequently.
5) Houston, TX
Texas rivals California when it comes to travel nurse demand – and not just because they are both very large states. Texas cities are often hubs for vast and advanced medical centers with a landscape of specialist clinics across the suburbs. This demand increases your earning potential and provides you with a great selection of cities to choose from. One of the better urban choices is Houston, TX, or one of its many suburbs.
Houstonis known for its welcoming culture, museums, dining, shopping, and live theater. It’s also a great place to make your next home base if you enjoy outdoor adventures, such as boating, fishing, and hiking
6) Tampa Bay, FL
There’s no question why there are so many medical centers in Florida and why travel nurses are in high demand. When weighing which Florida city to choose, we suggest Tampa Bay. The Tampa area is more serious and a little less glitzy than Miami, which also makes it safer and more affordable. Tampa Bay loops out onto the peninsula for some gorgeous beachside views, water in every direction, and a serious approach to medical care.
7) Alexandria, VA
Virginia is another city that ranks high in travel nurse demand. Alexandria, VA, is within the DC 495 loop, which makes it part of the Washington, DC, metro. This welcoming suburb has all the amenities of the capital city with a little more space and room to relax during your time off. You’ll still get to see all the iconic sights and get your fill of amazing museums. Alexandria is home to many medical facilities and clinics so you can take your pick of work environments, often at an excellent compensation rate.
8) Minneapolis, MN
The Twin Cities offer a strong healthcare network and ongoing opportunities for nursing professionals. Minnesota represents a great opportunity for career advancement with top healthcare facilities, including teaching hospitals and specialized clinics. Minneapolis or St Paul would make a great choice with the same blend of great restaurants, arts and entertainment, and nearby outdoor activities to fill your days.
9) Chesapeake Bay, MD
Maryland is on the southern end of New England, close to Washington, DC. It offers a colorful blend of available experiences. For charming small towns and beautiful seaside adventures, search for assignments along Chesapeake Bay. Because things are so close together, you can easily visit Virginia, Delaware, and the capital from almost anywhere you might be assigned in Maryland.
10) Anchorage, AK
Finally, we have the land of the midnight sun, Anchorage, Alaska. If you’ve ever wanted to see the Northern Lights, experience the unique Arctic day and night cycle, or visit a truly unique ecosystem, taking an assignment in Alaska is a wonderful way to see this remote yet vital part of the world. And because few nurses want to brave arctic conditions, demand and potential income from assignments in Anchorage are generally quite high.
What Makes the Best Travel Nurse Destination?
How do you decide which destination is the best choice? Where have you always wanted to see? Which assignment will offer you a lifestyle you love, with opportunities to explore the city and beyond?
Exploring the Charm of Small Towns vs. Big City Life
- As a travel nurse, you can discover the interesting differences between small towns, suburbs, and urban placements. Explore what you like about each one and choose future assignments based on what you enjoy most.
Climate Considerations: Finding Your Ideal Weather
- The US has an incredible range of biomes and ecosystems, including different weather based on where you go. Whether you love balmy weather all year, crystalline snowy winters, the unique beauty of the desert in any season, or year-round temperate seaside weather, you’ll find your bliss.
Housing Options: Finding Comfortable and Affordable Accommodations
- Lastly, choose your destination based on how well you can live during each assignment. Explore your options for a comfortable, affordable, and perfectly placed temporary home..
Find Your Next Nursing Assignment at AB Staffing
AB Staffing will guide you through the entire process. From finding an assignment to getting credentialed and onboarded, you will have support for the entire 13 weeks. Search your next assignment through our jobs page or consult with us directly for a more personalized set of opportunities. We’re here to make your travel nursing adventures as easy and enjoyable as possible.
