Are you a clinician looking for your next great travel assignment? We’ve compiled a list of the top five states with the most openings. Consider Tennessee, Texas, Arizona, Kentucky or Arkansas. These states are top choices due to their high demand for healthcare professionals and the variety of job openings available.
The beauty is that all five of these states are compact states. If you have a compact nursing license, you can work in any of these states without additional licensing barriers! This flexibility simplifies the process of finding new assignments and makes it easier to move between jobs.
However, it’s important to be mindful of mileage restrictions, as some facilities require you to live beyond a certain distance (typically 50-150 miles) to qualify for a travel position. Always verify these details with your recruiter to ensure eligibility and avoid potential issues.
Why Tennessee?Tennessee offers travel nurses a wealth of job opportunities in a culturally rich environment. With numerous hospital systems with consistent openings, Tennessee ranks the highest state in terms of open positions for travelers.
Tennessee can be broken down into three parts: West, Middle and East Tennessee, all three with distinct cultures. Nashville’s vibrant music scene provides endless entertainment, while Memphis boasts world-famous barbecue.
Beyond the cities, Tennessee’s natural beauty, including the Great Smoky Mountains, invites outdoor exploration. This blend of career prospects and cultural attractions makes Tennessee an enticing choice for travel nurses.
Texas, with its vast landscape and bustling urban centers, offers numerous opportunities for travel nurses. The state’s healthcare facilities range from top-tier hospitals in cities like Houston and Dallas to community clinics in smaller towns, ensuring a wide variety of assignments.
Enjoy authentic Tex-Mex cuisine and explore historical landmarks such as The Alamo. The Lone Star State’s unique blend of cultural richness and professional opportunities makes it an attractive destination. Texas provides a diverse and rewarding experience for travel nurses looking to enhance their careers while enjoying new adventures.
Arizona ranks among the top destinations for travelers due to its steady demand for healthcare professionals and stunning natural landscapes. Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking in the Grand Canyon and exploring the unique rock formations of Sedona. The state also offers a rich cultural experience with Native American heritage sites and vibrant urban centers like Phoenix and Tucson. Arizona’s warm climate and diverse recreational opportunities make it a desirable location for those who love both work and play.
Kentucky offers clinicians professional growth with plenty of healthcare facilities to choose from, as well as cultural enrichment. The state is known for its bourbon distilleries and exciting horse racing events, adding fun options to your downtime. Enjoy scenic drives through the rolling hills and explore charming small towns with rich histories. Kentucky’s affordable cost of living and welcoming communities make it an attractive option for those looking to balance work with leisure.
Arkansas offers travelers a fantastic blend of career opportunities and outdoor activities. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, the state is perfect for hiking through the Ozark Mountains, fishing in serene lakes and exploring lush forests.
Arkansas also has vibrant cultural scenes in cities like Little Rock and Fayetteville, providing a variety of experiences. With its welcoming communities and affordable living, Arkansas provides a rewarding environment for both work and leisure, making it an ideal destination for travel nurses.
Beyond the professional opportunities, each state offers its unique attractions and lifestyle benefits. Whether you’re drawn to the cultural vibrancy of Nashville and Austin, the natural beauty of the Grand Canyon and the Ozarks, or food and drink options like Memphis barbecue and Kentucky bourbon, these states provide an ideal blend of work and leisure for travelers.
