Top 15 Dream Destinations for Travel Nurses in 2023

One of the primary advantages of travel nursing is the opportunity to journey across the nation and discover new locations. Whether you’re searching for travel nursing sites with attractive wages, pleasant climates, distinctive cultures, or prominent tourist attractions, there are numerous destinations throughout the U.S. that can make your upcoming travel assignment fulfilling.

Here are the 15 top states for travel nursing, taking into account aspects such as weather, compensation rates, cost of living, Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) membership, and others!

Arizona

• Compact State: Yes
• Average Weekly Salary: $2,242
• Average Temperature High (July): 106°F
• Average Temperature Low (January): 46°F

Thanks to its mild climate, southwestern vistas, and generous average pay rates, Arizona stands out as one of the ideal states for traveling nurses. It hosts some of the most renowned natural wonders in the U.S., making it a perfect getaway from winter chill.

Even though the living expenses in Arizona are somewhat above the national average, the typical weekly pay for travel nurses in Arizona often suffices to cover monthly costs. This implies that you can generally anticipate a greater net income from a travel position in the Grand Canyon State.

Things to Do in Arizona

• Gaze over the expansive landscape or hike to the base of the Grand Canyon at Grand Canyon National Park close to Tusayan.
• Engage in paddleboarding, witness local boat parades, or cast your line for a fishing day at Lake Havasu State Park near Lake Havasu City.
• Visit Roosevelt Row to discover local coffee shops, admire street art, enjoy music festivals, or sample the dining and nightlife of Phoenix.
• Explore art displays, participate in workshops and classes, and wander through breathtaking collections of vegetation at the Tucson Botanical Gardens in Tucson.
• Enjoy camping, hiking, view remarkable rock formations, and learn more about Navajo Nation lands at Canyon de Chelly National Monument near Chinle.

Arkansas

• Compact State: Yes
• Average Weekly Salary: $1,795
• Average Temperature High (July): 92°F
• Average Temperature Low (January): 32°F

Renowned for its hot springs, rich natural beauty, and a vibrant college sports culture, Arkansas is an excellent destination for travel nurses. With warm summers and gentle winters, the Natural State welcomes visitors as a top travel nursing locale year-round.

Furthermore, Arkansas offers a notably lower cost of living compared to the national average, allowing you to retain a larger portion of your earnings during travel nursing positions. Additionally, with a considerable aging demographic, Arkansas experiences a heightened need for nurses in specialties like home health, wound care, cardiac treatment, and rehabilitation.

Things to Do in Arkansas

California

• Compact State: No
• Average Weekly Salary: $2,446
• Average Temperature High (July): 92°F
• Average Temperature Low (January): 39°F

From the coastline of Southern California to the Redwood forests of Northern California, the state offers a multitude of options as a travel nursing destination, featuring warm climates and numerous iconic sights throughout the country.

California ranks among the priciest states in the U.S. with a cost of living that is 49.9% more than the national average, which might affect your take-home earnings while on travel nursing assignments here. Nevertheless, the substantial population of California andsubsequent number of medical facilities simplifies the process of discovering a broader variety of travel positions within in-demand nursing fields, such as medical surgical (med-surg) and operating room (OR).

Activities to Enjoy in California

• Reserve a site at a campground, embark on a hiking expedition, or enjoy a mountain biking experience among some of the oldest trees globally at Redwood National & State Parks close to Crescent City.
• Shop, discover museums dedicated to arts and culture, enjoy a meal, or experience the nightlife along the Miracle Mile in Los Angeles.
• Taste local craft beers, learn the whiskey-making process in small batches, and participate in wine tastings at 30 various wineries, breweries, and distilleries located in Ukiah.
• Join a chartered fishing expedition, trek the trails, go kayaking, or spend a day basking in the sun at Lake Tahoe near South Lake Tahoe.
• Watch emerging NASCAR and Indy racers on the track during stock races at the Bakersfield Speedway in Bakersfield.

Indiana

• Compact State: Yes
• Average Weekly Salary: $2,062
• Typical High Temperature (July): 85°F
• Typical Low Temperature (January): 19°F

With vast agricultural lands, thrilling sporting events, and numerous picturesque state parks, Indiana is an excellent location for travel nursing. Although the Hoosier State experiences four distinct seasons, you’re likely to discover various indoor and outdoor pursuits during your Indiana travel nursing assignment.

Aside from recreational activities and climate, low living costs are an additional attraction for individuals contemplating Indiana as a travel nursing site. Thanks to a lower cost of living compared to the national average and attractive weekly wages, travel nurses in Indiana can maximize their income.

Activities to Enjoy in Indiana

• Witness one of the most famous racing events in the nation with the Indy 500 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indianapolis.
• Trek the trails through diverse habitats, from sandy dunes to wetlands at the 15,000-acre Indiana Dunes State Park in Chesterton.
• Explore classic toys, glass-blown art, natural landscape photographs, and additional art pieces at the Fort Wayne Museum of Art in Fort Wayne.
• Try ziplining, go gemstone mining, or discover the state’s longest cave at Indiana Caverns in Corydon.
• Attend performances featuring the Evansville Philharmonic, emerging artists, or films in concert at Victory Theatre in Evansville.

Iowa

• Compact State: Yes
• Average Weekly Salary: $2,041
• Typical High Temperature (July): 86°F
• Typical Low Temperature (January): 14°F

If you are seeking a travel nursing destination that provides favorable take-home salaries, Iowa ranks highly. Offering an extremely low cost of living, the Hawkeye State presents travel nurses with better pay, affordable housing alternatives, and reduced monthly costs.

However, affordability isn’t the only advantage this state provides to travelers! Whether you seek stunning Midwestern scenery, exciting outdoor activities, vibrant city arts and culture, or a relaxed small-town vibe, Iowa has something for everyone.

Activities to Enjoy in Iowa

• Enjoy carnival rides, sample cuisine from various vendors, or visit art installations like the famous Butter Cow at the Iowa State Fair in Des Moines.
• Investigate Dancehall Cave and other caves suitable for adventurers of all skill levels, or hike the interconnected trails at Maquoketa Caves State Park in Maquoketa.
• Discover a collection that ranges from ancient Roman sculptures to modern pieces across various mediums at the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art in Cedar Rapids.
• Partake in skiing or snowboarding at thea must-see winter spot in the Midwest: Sundown Mountain Resort located in Dubuque.
• Explore historic covered bridges and capture images of the stunning scenery that envelops them at the Bridges of Madison County close to Winterset.

Kentucky

• Compact State: Yes
• Average Weekly Salary: $2,152
• Average Temperature High (July): 87°F
• Average Temperature Low (January): 21°F

Featuring breathtaking views of the Appalachian Mountains on the eastern part of the state and undulating plains along the western expanse, Kentucky serves as a picturesque location for traveling nurses seeking employment within America’s heartland.

In addition to its natural allure, Kentucky’s living expenses are below the national norm, while the earnings for traveling professionals are slightly above average. This renders the Bluegrass State an astute choice for travel nursing assignments for those desiring increased net income.

Activities in Kentucky

Maine

• Compact State: Yes
• Average Weekly Salary: $1,972
• Average Temperature High (July): 79°F
• Average Temperature Low (January): 11°F

With its captivating New England vistas and abundant outdoor activities, Maine presents an excellent locale for travel nursing. Featuring four distinct seasons, there are unique attractions available year-round throughout your travel assignment in Maine, from admiring cherry blossoms in spring to hiking through vibrant foliage in autumn.

Another appealing aspect of Maine for travel nurses is its economical living conditions. With a cost of living marginally lower than the national average, travel nurses can allocate less on lodging, utilities, and essential goods than in other parts of New England, allowing for greater opportunities for net earnings!

Activities in Maine

• Observe marine wildlife from Otter Cliff or engage in stargazing at Acadia National Park close to Bar Harbor.
• Take a journey through one of the state’s most iconic sites: Nubble Light House in York.
• Taste classic New England seafood offerings, watch cooking competitions, and enjoy live entertainment at the five-day Maine Lobster Festival held in Rockland.
• Cheer for the Portland Sea Dogs (MiLB) as they hit it out of the park at Hadlock Field in Portland.
• Stroll through the intriguing flora and fauna within the preserved bog terrain surrounding the Orono Bog Walk in Bangor.

Missouri

• Compact State: Yes
• Average Weekly Salary: $2,093
• Average Temperature High (July): 88°F
• Average Temperature Low (January): 21°F

Stretching from the Missouri River to the Mississippi River, interspersed with the Great Plains and the Ozark Mountains, Missouri showcases one of the most varied terrains in the Midwest, offeringtraveling nurses with various enjoyable outdoor activities throughout the year.

Furthermore, the Show-Me State provides both large metropolitan areas such as St. Louis and Kansas City, as well as more rural communities, signifying that you can discover a plethora of job prospects with substantial hospital networks or small local hospitals across the state. With a affordable cost of living paired with competitive pay rates, it’s evident why Missouri remains a sought-after location for travel nursing roles.

Activities in Missouri

• Savor the Kansas City barbecue at eateries like Jack Stack, Gates, and B.B.’s Lawn Side along the KC Barbecue Experience trail in Kansas City.
• Explore the Gateway to the West, then ascend to the summit for panoramic views of the city at the Gateway Arch in St. Louis.
• Hike over the natural bridge, discover a historic stone castle, or enjoy views of the Lake of the Ozarks at Ha Ha Tonka State Park near Camdenton.
• Experience a musical extravaganza with lights, fireworks, and beyond at the city’s “most popular show,” The Haygoods in Branson.
• Gain insights into the pioneer lifestyle through the narrative of author Laura Ingalls Wilder at the Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home & Museum in Springfield.

New Hampshire

• Compact State: Yes
• Average Weekly Salary: $1,980
• Average High Temperature (July): 82°F
• Average Low Temperature (January): 10°F

Even though the cost of living in New Hampshire is somewhat above the national average, the Granite State boasts one of the oldest demographics in the U.S., leading to a strong demand for healthcare professionals and a broad spectrum of opportunities for travel nurses.

Apart from the abundance of travel nursing positions, New Hampshire is an enchanting travel site, showcasing some of New England’s finest vistas. Here, you can explore coastal towns, verdant forests, the White Mountains, and much more with activities available all year round.

Activities in New Hampshire

• Discover more about the local harbor and relish the coastal views during daytime or nighttime with Portsmouth Harbor Cruises in Portsmouth.
• Reserve a camping spot, engage in hiking or biking, and observe local wildlife at Mt. Washington State Park in Mount Washington.
• Wander through displays featuring modern sculptures, expressionist works, and additional pieces at the Currier Museum of Art in Manchester.
• Participate in year-round outdoor activities such as snowshoeing, horseback riding, jogging, cycling, and dog sledding along the Northern Rail Trail in Lebanon.
• Enjoy skiing, indulge in a spa afternoon, or partake in ice skating at Attitash Mountain Village in Bartlett.

New Mexico

• Compact State: Yes
• Average Weekly Salary: $2,167
• Average High Temperature (July): 86°F
• Average Low Temperature (January): 17°F

If you seek a travel nursing location that allows you to escape the frigid winter conditions, New Mexico is a favored choice among travelers. With stunning desert vistas and delectable Southwestern cuisine, there’s much to appreciate about travel assignments in the Land of Enchantment.

Due to its affordable cost of living and above-average salaries for travelers, New Mexico offers travel nurses better net earnings compared to other western U.S. states. Moreover, there are numerous native reservations in New Mexico, particularly surrounding the Albuquerque region, presenting unique opportunities for nurses hoping to impact tribal communities positively.

Activities in New Mexico

North Carolina

• Compact State: Yes
• Average Weekly Wage: $1,928
• Max Average Temperature (July): 89°F
• Min Average Temperature (January): 30°F

The Tarheel State provides numerous advantages as a destination for traveling nurses: affordable living expenses, stunning vistas, favorable climate throughout the year, urban conveniences, and employment possibilities in both remote and metropolitan regions with satisfactory take-home earnings.

Whether your travel nursing role directs you to the state’s Coastal Plain area, which boasts sandy shores and aquatic activities, or leads you to the Appalachian region, where you can enjoy exceptional outdoor adventures that the eastern U.S. has to offer, there is an abundance of appeal in travel nursing within North Carolina!

Activities in North Carolina

Oklahoma

• Compact State: Yes
• Average Weekly Wage: $2,110
• Max Average Temperature (July): 94°F
• Min Average Temperature (January): 29°F

On the hunt for a travel nursing treasure? Embark on your travel nursing journey in Oklahoma for an unforgettable experience! The Sooner State features an incredibly low cost of living and competitive compensation rates, which enables you to retain a more significant portion of your weekly earnings as a travel nurse.

Moreover, Oklahoma is home to over 30 indigenous nations—including Cherokee Nation, Muscogee Nation, and Choctaw Nation—and many travel roles in rural locations where travel nurses can assist these tribal populations.

Activities in Oklahoma

• Explore the state’s Old West heritage, view artwork highlighting the American West, and partake in family-friendly occasions at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City.
• Experience jazz concerts, captivating dance performances, and other live shows at the Armstrong Auditorium in Edmond.
• Enhance your skills at the driving range or enjoy a round of golf on the 18-hole course at Adams Municipal Golf Club in Bartlesville.
• Take the kids to encounter exotic creatures like the Malayan Tiger and the Asian Elephant at Tulsa Zoo in Tulsa.
• Drive through Choctaw Country to experience breathtaking views of the mountains and foliage along the Talimena National Scenic Byway close to Talihina.

Texas

• Compact State: Yes
• Average Weekly Wage: $1,786
• Max Average Temperature (July): 96°F
• Min Average Temperature (January): 42°F

Being one of the largest states in terms of both area and population, it is unsurprising that Texas has a lot in store as an appealing destination for traveling nurses. Not only does it provide a variety of travel healthcare options at facilities of various scales, but the Lone Star State’s affordable living expenses and absence of state income tax enable travel nurses to usually preserve more of their weekly compensation.

Additionally, Texas boasts diverse landscapes, enjoyable outdoor activities, and vibrant…

“`recreation, pleasant climate throughout the year, mouthwatering southwestern fare, and lively arts and cultural scene. Regardless of where your upcoming travel nursing duty leads you in Texas, you will undoubtedly discover something to adore!

Activities to Enjoy in Texas

Virginia

• Compact State: Yes
• Average Weekly Wage: $2,049
• Average Temperature High (July): 90°F
• Average Temperature Low (January): 28°F

With its ideal “Goldilocks climate,” consistent outdoor activities, and numerous historical landmarks, Virginia is an excellent destination for traveling nurses. Not only can nurses find abundant travel assignments in the Old Dominion, but there are also unique hobbies to try and attractions to explore on their days off.

Although Virginia’s living expenses are somewhat above the national average—especially in proximity to Washington, D.C., like Alexandria and Arlington—smaller towns and more rural regions in the state are more affordable and can make your weekly earnings go further.

Activities to Enjoy in Virginia

• Travel back in time with historical re-enactments and other special occasions in picturesque Colonial Williamsburg located in Williamsburg.
• Engage in kayaking, fishing, or take a stroll along the coast at Mason Neck State Park in Lorton.
• Visit the former residence of renowned horror author Edgar Allan Poe, partake in literary events, and explore the Enchanted Garden at the Poe Museum in Richmond.
• Stroll through the sacred grounds, view national monuments such as the Eternal Flame, or observe the guard change at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington.
• Taste selections from food trucks, sample locally brewed craft beer, or enjoy live performances at Parkway Brewing in Salem.
• Exercise at outdoor fitness facilities, hike around the lake, or go catfishing at the lovely Oak Grove Lake Park in Chesapeake.

Washington

• Compact State: Yes
• Average Weekly Wage: $2,154
• Average Temperature High (July): 76°F
• Average Temperature Low (January): 37°F

If you have always wanted to explore the Pacific Northwest, consider heading to Washington for your next travel nursing opportunity. The Evergreen State is a sought-after location for traveling nurses who appreciate the great outdoors, providing moderate temperatures and lush mountain vistas.

Washington does have a cost of living 21.9% higher than the national average, making it a pricier choice. Nevertheless, the state does not impose income tax, which could enhance your net income. Additionally, opting for travel assignments in smaller, more rural areas beyond the Seattle-Tacoma metropolitan zone can aid in lowering your housing and living costs.

Activities to Enjoy in Washington

• Purchase fresh fish and seafood, browse local boutiques, and discover handmade art at Pike’s Place Market in Seattle.
• Hike during the summer or ski in the winter at Mount Rainier National Park near Olympia.
• Amazed by enormous glass artworks, enjoy live music, or try your skills at glassblowing workshops at the Museum of Glass in Tacoma.
• Join a guided tour to navigate through expansive, captivating gardens at the Yakima Area Arboretum in Yakima.
• Visit the “Jewel of Downtown Spokane” for a day filled with adventure, including a thrilling ride over the waterfalls, at Riverfront Park in Spokane.

Are you prepared to embark on your next travel nursing assignment? Discover these fantastic locations and others by browsing our travel nursing opportunities or applying now!

Climate information sourced from U.S. Climate Data. Salary information obtained from Indeed.