Are you ready to explore the world while furthering your career as a travel nurse? Travel nursing is an exciting opportunity to experience different settings, see new places, and make money simultaneously. But with so many fantastic travel nursing destinations available, it can be hard to narrow down to just one or two locations.
In this blog, we’ll be exploring the best places to travel nurse in 2023. From great cities to stunning views of the great outdoors and more, these locations have something special you won’t want to miss out on.
For nurses with multi-state licenses, check out this comprehensive guide on which states accept compact licenses.
Let’s look at some of the best locations for travel nurse jobs this year.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Albuquerque is one of the best travel nurse destinations. With over 300 days of sunshine each year and plenty of attractions, it’s no wonder many travelers are flocking here.
It’s home to hot air balloon festivals and some of the best Mexican food. The cost of living in Albuquerque is lower than the national average, making it a great spot for travel nurses.
Anchorage, Alaska
Anchorage offers breathtaking views and endless outdoor activities. Nurses will find plenty of opportunities to explore Alaska while still having access to excellent travel nursing jobs. Plus, Anchorage is home to some of the best seafood around!
Enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains as you sample fresh-caught salmon or crab from one of the local restaurants. Travel nurses can even book a helicopter tour to see views of the Northern Lights.
Austin, Texas
Austin is best known for its live music scene, vibrant art galleries, and culture. This sunny city offers a wealth of opportunities and new adventures. Austin has excellent travel nursing jobs available to those looking to work in the area.
On your off days, explore the city’s unique attractions like The State Capitol Building or catch a show at one of the many live music venues.
Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta is a big city with plenty to offer. With its vibrant culture and buzzing nightlife, it’s one of the greatest cities to work in as a travel nurse.
During your free time, explore some of the best attractions Atlanta offers, like the Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola, or visit the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial.
Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is a bustling cultural hub. With its rich history, world-class universities, and healthcare opportunities, it’s no wonder why this is a popular destination.
Enjoy all the best that Boston offers – sample some of the best seafood at one of the local restaurants, explore the beautiful Freedom Trail, or visit one of the many museums and galleries. Plus, plenty of travel nursing assignments available in the area pay competitively.
Denver, Colorado
Denver is an incredible location located in the beautiful Rocky Mountains. Its stunning views of the Front Range and sprawling cityscape make it the perfect destination for travel nurses looking to experience some of Colorado’s unique beauty.
Explore iconic attractions like the Red Rocks Amphitheater or take in some of the stunning skyline views in downtown Denver.
Honolulu, Hawaii
Living in Aloha State is a bucket list opportunity! Honolulu is best known for its stunning beaches and tropical climate. With excellent hospitals, there are plenty of opportunities to work while enjoying the best of island life.
The cost of living in Hawaii is one of the highest in the country. However, many nurse recruiters offer great pay and housing stipends to offset the high cost of living.
Jacksonville, Florida
Stay awhile in the Sunshine State! With its mild climate and beautiful beaches, Jacksonville is a wonderful place to explore Florida and find your next travel nursing job.
Explore some of Jacksonville’s best attractions, like Friendship Park or the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens. The coastal city is also home to lots of outdoor fun, like kayaking and paddle boarding.
Kansas City, Missouri
With its renowned barbecue and bustling nightlife, Kansas City is full of history and culture. Head down to the River Market district for plenty of shopping and dining options, or spend the day exploring the museums and galleries.
If you’re more outdoorsy, spend your free time fishing at one of Missouri’s many lakes or stroll along the charming cobblestone streets.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is a vibrant and exciting destination with plenty to do as a travel nurse. From the famous Strip to world-renowned casinos, there’s something for everyone in this world’s entertainment capital.
Enjoy all that Vegas has to offer – catch a show at one of the many venues throughout town, take a stroll through the beautiful Red Rock Canyon, or sample some of the delicious cuisines. Travel nurses can even take day trips to the Grand Canyon and other nearby destinations.
Los Angeles, California
As California’s most populous city, Los Angeles is one of the top cities for travel nurses. L.A. is home to some of the best healthcare facilities in the country, including UCLA Medical Center.
Plus, the natural beauty of the Pacific Ocean surrounds L.A., making it a great escape from busy city living. Nurses should remember that the cost of living can be high in L.A., but with great job opportunities and a housing stipend, it can be manageable.
Morgantown, West Virginia
Morgantown is a vibrant college town located in the heart of Appalachia. With its top-rated university and bustling nightlife, Morgantown is full of culture and adventure for travel nurses.
Enjoy some of the best dining and shopping options around town, or take an outdoor trip to Coopers Rock State Forest. From its lively music scene to its beautiful hiking trails and West Virginia rolling hills, it’s the perfect place to pick as your home away from home.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach is one of the top cities for travel nurses who want to relax by the beach. With its beautiful white sand beaches and bustling boardwalk, it’s easy to see why so many flock to this coastal paradise.
Explore some of Myrtle Beach’s finest attractions, like Broadway at the Beach or Barefoot Landing, or take a stroll along the iconic Ocean Boulevard. Like most beach cities, Myrtle Beach can be busy during the summer months, so plan for your housing options and daily commute.
New York, New York
If you’re a travel nurse looking to experience the hustle and bustle of city life, NYC is an iconic destination for your next travel assignment. With its world-famous attractions like the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Empire State Building, it’s easy to get lost in the beauty of this vibrant destination.
Try out some of NYC’s many restaurants and bars, or catch a show on Broadway. The cost of living in the Big Apple is extremely high, so look for affordable housing options and save up before arriving.
Omaha, Nebraska
Omaha is a beautiful place located along the Missouri River. Like most Midwest cities, this “flyover country” is the perfect destination for travel nurses looking to experience four seasons.
Enjoy Omaha’s best attractions, like the historic Old Market district, or take a stroll through scenic Turner Park. Spend your days exploring one of the many museums in town or take a tour of the city’s historic sites.
Redding, California
Redding is an exciting travel nursing destination that lets you experience the unique beauty of Northern California. Located along the Sacramento River, there are countless options for outdoor fun, like hiking, fishing, and camping.
You can enjoy some of Redding’s finest attractions, like Turtle Bay Exploration Park, or take in stunning views from Shasta Dam.
Whether you want to spend your days exploring national parks or checking out some top attractions, there’s something for all nurses in Redding.
Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City is one of the best cities for travel nurses looking to experience all the benefits of the Rocky Mountains. As Utah’s largest city, Salt Lake is among the best travel nurse destinations.
Go skiing on some of the highest mountains in North America or visit some of the many parks available in Salt Lake.
With its vibrant culture and unique attractions like the Church History Museum, Salt Lake has something for everyone!
San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio is a fun cultural hub located in the heart of South Texas. With its thriving nightlife and bustling downtown area, it’s the perfect destination for travel nurses looking to experience some southern hospitality.
Enjoy all that San Antonio offers – from exploring the historic River Walk to taking in some stunning views from the Tower of Americas.
You can also tour some of the city’s top attractions, like Sea World San Antonio, or take a tour of The Alamo.
San Diego, California
San Diego boasts miles of sunny beaches and an abundance of attractions. It’s also home to some of the best hospitals in the country, making it perfect for travel nurses looking for a great opportunity.
San Diego is among the best cities for travel nurses because of its year-round warm temperatures, excellent restaurants, and vibrant culture.
Plus, the city sits beside gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean and nearby mountains, making it a great place to explore.
San Francisco, California
San Francisco is an iconic destination located on the beautiful San Francisco Bay. Its hilly streets and Victorian-style homes make it the perfect travel nursing assignment for nurses who want to discover the West Coast.
With its world-class restaurants, exciting nightlife, and unique attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco has something for everyone. With excellent hospitals, like the UCSF Medical Center, San Francisco is a great opportunity for travel nurses.
Tacoma, Washington
Tacoma is a vibrant city located in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. With its stunning views of Mount Rainier and proximity to Puget Sound, it’s one of the best places to travel nurse to see the West Coast.
From exploring Point Defiance Park to taking in some of Tacoma’s stunning skyline views from atop the Narrows Bridge, there’s plenty of excitement for travel nurses.
Plus, this gorgeous city has a lower cost of living and affordable housing costs, making it accessible to many nurses.
Washington D.C.
Washington, D.C., is the nation’s capital and a vibrant city located on the banks of the Potomac River. Its impressive monuments and landmark buildings make it one of the best travel nurse destinations for those looking to experience some of America’s history and culture.
Visit iconic attractions like the National Mall and take in some of Washington D.C.’s stunning skyline views from the Washington Monument.
Plus, you can explore some of the city’s top attractions, like the National Air and Space Museum, or take a tour of the White House.
White Plains, New York
White Plains is a gorgeous city located in the heart of Westchester County. Just a quick drive from NYC, this is a great place for travel nurses looking to experience the city without having to go into Manhattan.
Being on the outskirts of NYC, the cost of living in White Plains can be expensive, but many travel nurse recruiters may be able to offer you a great housing stipend.
Find Your Dream Travel Nursing Job
Travel nursing is a fantastic opportunity to gain invaluable experience while exploring different parts of the world.
It allows nurses to make a difference in their patient’s lives and experience new cities first-hand.
Whether you’re new to travel nursing or an experienced traveler, there are plenty of great places for you to visit and explore, with fantastic opportunities.
Ready to start your new adventure? Click APPLY to find your dream travel assignment!
