The research is in!
Recent research from WalletHub took a close look at the nursing industry across the United States. Some of these parameters are exactly what we look for when searching for locations that are great for travel nurses. The research information sheds light on the current employment environment. This information could be useful for your journey as a travel nurse.
Two key dimensions were examined using 14 relevant metrics.
— Opportunity & Competition
— Work Environment
The Top 5 in several categories are:
Most Nursing Job Openings per Capita
More nursing jobs means locations that are great for travel nurses to start looking.
- District of Columbia
- New Mexico
- New Hampshire
- Massachusetts
- Alaska
Highest Annual Nursing Salary (Adjusted for Cost of Living)
It’s important to note that just because a location has a high annual salary, it’s not necessarily translated to locations that are great for travel nurses. Sometimes the travel pay isn’t commiserate with the staff pay.
- Nevada
- Wyoming
- Idaho
- Michigan
- Texas
Most Healthcare Facilities per Capita
Wherever there are a lot of healthcare facilities, there are bound to be nursing shortages and thus, locations that are great for travel nurses.
- Oregon
- Maine
- Minnesota
- South Dakota
- Iowa
Top 5 Nurse-Friendly Hospitals
More research from Top RN to BSN, lists the most nurse-friendly hospitals in the United States. Who wouldn’t rate a location with one of these top 5 nurse-friendly hospitals as a great location for travel nurses!
Winners of the top 5 spots are:
- Schneck Medical Center – Seymour, Indiana
- Johns Hopkins Hospital – Baltimore, Maryland
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital Of Chicago – Chicago, Illinois
- Baptist Medical Center – Jacksonville, Florida
- West Virginia University Hospitals – Morgantown, West Virginia
Other Considerations
Reports also note that travel nurses frequently request assignments in places where many people want to vacation. Hawaii, New York City, California, Florida, Alaska, and Las Vegas are popular picks. Therefore, it’s the opportunities for time spent outside of work that makes these areas especially attractive.
Above all, when you contact your agency, talk honestly about what you are looking for in an assignment. Therefore, let your recruiter know what activities you enjoy. Clarity in your needs will only help the travel nurse agency find you the right contract. Be upfront about the types of places you would like to go.
Most importantly, it’s essential to understand the licensing requirements of different states. What are the costs to obtain necessary licensing and who will cover those expenses? The lead-time to start an assignment is also important. You will need adequate time to give notice to any current position. As you evaluate options, be careful not to assess only the salary. While some areas offer an above average salary, the cost of living can be very high and quickly offset any gains in your paycheck.
Are you looking for a travel nurse job at one of these locations? Did you know that you can search our Job Listings for specific hospitals, cities, and by specialty?
Check it out and find your perfect travel nurse contract today!
