The Top 5 Best States for Travel Nurses

• Are you looking to spread your wings and travel in 2022? 

• Feeling nomadic but not sure where to start?
  

• Our guide to the top 5 best states for travel nurses is sure to put you in the right direction!  

Are you looking to spread your wings and travel in 2022? 

Feeling nomadic but not sure where to start? 

Our guide to the top 5 best states for travel nurses is sure to put you in the right direction!  

There are several factors to consider when determining where to begin your next assignment, so when we created this guide, we kept a few things in mind: cost of living, out-of-work activities, facility abundance, and state resident happiness. 

5. Hawaii

The salty ocean breeze, the abundance of wildlife, and the beautiful scenery of Hawaii can make a travel nursing assignment irresistible. Plus, a recent study by WalletHub determines that Hawaii is the third happiest state in the country!  

Overall, the cost of living in Hawaii isn’t the most budget-friendly (168.9), however, if your travel agency is covering your housing expenses, it might make it more affordable venture for you to explore! We recommend asking this in your interview with your travel nurse recruiter. 

From hiking and sight-seeing to exploring the native Polynesian culture, there are plenty of outdoor activities for you to get involved in during your off-time. 

As if the previous factors weren’t persuasive enough, Hawaii is one of the best states for travel nurses due to its abundance of healthcare facilities, there are seven in Honolulu alone!  

4. Texas

Interested in advancing your nursing career at some of the best healthcare facilities in the nation? This might be the state for you!  

Texas is home to both Baylor University Medical Center (No. 3 in the state) and the Houston Methodist Hospital (No. 20 in the nation). 

If you are looking for a budget-friendly assignment, this is one of the best states for travel nurses! The cost of living in Texas is cheaper than the national average (93.9)! On top of this, Texas is in the top 25 happiest states in the nation. 

Whether you are searching for a lively night out or outdoor activities, there are so many ways you can spend your free time. Of course, Texas is a massive state so you will have to do your own research on things to do in your assignment’s area, but here are a few suggestions: 

• Big Bend National Park: West Texas 
• The Alamo: San Antonio 
• San Antonio River Walk: San Antonio 
• The Museum of Fine Arts: Houston 
• Guadalupe Mountains National Park: Salt Flat

3. Colorado

Do you love the outdoors? Or are you looking for something completely out of your comfort zone? Whatever the case may be, Colorado might be the place for you!  

With UCHealth’s University of Colorado Hospital located in Aurora, you could be working alongside some of the best pulmonology and lung specialists in the nation (No. 2 in the nation).  

From seemingly-endless hiking trails with stunning views throughout the Rocky Mountains to the hustle and bustle of downtown city life, this is one of the best states for travel nurses who are looking for a balance of day- and nighttime activities. 

Additionally, WalletHub lists Colorado in the top 25 happiest states in the country. 

If you are ready to live out a new adventure, talk to your travel nurse recruiter about available assignments in this Midwest state!  

2. Massachusetts

Are you looking for experiences in world-renowned healthcare systems and diverse cultures? If that is the case, then Massachusetts might be exactly what you’re looking for! 

From the success-driven, entrepreneurial spirit in Boston to the eclectic atmosphere of Waltham, there are so many wonderful cities that you could temporarily call home while completing your assignment. 

If you are committed to furthering your nursing education or clinical experiences, Massachusetts is home to some of the nation’s best healthcare facilities; Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, for example.  

As of September 2021, WalletHub lists Massachusetts as the 10th happiest state in the country!  

Although the cost of living in this state is higher than the national average, if you can talk with your travel nurse recruiter, perhaps they can find affordable housing arrangements that will fit your budget!  

1. California

Not only is California one of the top states for highest-paying nursing salaries, but it is home to several of the most prestigious healthcare institutions in the country.  

There is no doubt that there is something in California for everyone. From numerous cities filled with shopping and booming nightlife to national parks and award-winning wineries, your off-days will never be lackluster. 

With no surprise, this state has one of the higher cost of living ranges and exceeds the national average.  

There is no doubt that a travel nursing assignment in California is a wonderful opportunity, and we strongly recommend talking to your travel nurse recruiter about what is available! 

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