Most Desired States for Travel Nurses and Allied Health Professionals: Survey Insights

Choosing the right state for your next travel nursing or allied health assignment can significantly impact your work-life balance and career growth. To help you make an informed decision, we conducted a comprehensive survey among healthcare professionals. Our survey reveals the top states preferred by travel nurses and allied health staff, along with the key factors driving these preferences. Whether you're looking to advance your career or find a place that fits your lifestyle, this data-driven guide will provide valuable insights into the best locations for your next assignment.

Desired States

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Our survey results highlight the top states that travel nurses and allied health professionals prefer for their assignments. These states stand out due to various factors such as job opportunities, favorable climate, and quality of life. Below, we delve into the specific reasons why these locations are so appealing to healthcare professionals.

California

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Opportunities and Demand: California remains a top choice due to its high demand for travel nurses and allied health professionals and diverse job opportunities. Major cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego offer a wide range of positions in various specialties, making it a hot spot for travel nurse and allied health assignments.

Climate and Lifestyle: The state's favorable climate and appealing lifestyle are significant draws. Healthcare professionals enjoy the mild weather, outdoor activities, and vibrant city life. Travel nursing in California is particularly attractive due to these factors.

Attractions and Activities: California boasts an abundance of attractions, from stunning beaches and national parks to world-class dining and entertainment options. Cities like Los Angeles offer a vibrant arts scene, while regions like Napa Valley are renowned for their wineries. It’s no wonder travel nursing jobs in California are in high demand.

Florida

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Climate: Florida's warm climate and year-round sunshine make it a desirable location for many healthcare professionals. The pleasant weather allows for a lifestyle that includes beach outings, boating, and other outdoor activities.

Cost of Living: Compared to many other states, Florida offers a relatively lower cost of living, making it an attractive option for those looking to maximize their earnings. Housing, groceries, and other essentials tend to be more affordable. This is a major draw for those seeking travel nursing jobs in Florida.

Attractions and Activities: The state is known for its beautiful beaches, theme parks, and vibrant cities like Miami and Orlando. Florida is home to famous attractions such as Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and the Everglades. Travel nursing in Florida is highly appealing due to these enticing factors.

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New York

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Opportunities: New York's extensive healthcare system and numerous job opportunities, especially in major cities like New York City, make it a preferred destination. The state offers positions in some of the country's most prestigious hospitals and research institutions, making travel nursing jobs in New York highly sought after.

Cultural Appeal: The rich cultural scene, including museums, theaters, and diverse neighborhoods, adds to its attractiveness. New York City, in particular, is a cultural hub with endless opportunities for arts and entertainment.

Proximity to Family and Friends: For many professionals, being close to family and friends is a significant factor. The state's well-developed transportation network makes it easy to travel within the region and stay connected with loved ones.

Texas

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Job Market: Texas offers a strong job market with high demand for travel nurses and allied health professionals in cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston. The state's growing population and expanding healthcare infrastructure mean that there are always new opportunities for skilled professionals, making it ideal for those seeking travel nursing jobs in Texas.

Cost of Living: The affordable cost of living compared to coastal states makes Texas an appealing choice. Housing, transportation, and other living expenses are generally lower, allowing professionals to enjoy a high standard of living. This makes travel nursing in Texas a great option for those looking to save money while advancing their careers.

Lifestyle and Attractions: Texas provides a mix of urban and outdoor activities, including music scenes, parks, and sports. Cities like Austin are famous for their live music and vibrant nightlife.

Georgia

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Climate: The favorable climate with mild winters is a significant attraction for healthcare professionals. The state's warm temperatures and moderate seasons make it an ideal place for those who enjoy outdoor activities year-round.

Opportunities: Cities like Atlanta offer numerous job opportunities in the healthcare sector. Georgia's healthcare industry is growing rapidly, providing a wide range of positions in hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical centers.

Attractions: Georgia is rich in cultural and historical attractions, along with plenty of outdoor activities. The state boasts landmarks such as the Georgia Aquarium and the historic city of Savannah, making travel nursing jobs in Georgia very appealing.

North Carolina

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Quality of Life: North Carolina is known for its high quality of life, blending urban and rural living. The state offers a balanced lifestyle with thriving cities and serene countryside, making it one of the best states to take a travel nurse or allied health assignment.

Healthcare Opportunities: Cities like Charlotte and Raleigh offer ample job opportunities in healthcare. North Carolina's healthcare sector is well-developed, with numerous hospitals and medical facilities continually seeking qualified professionals.

Cost of Living: The state boasts affordable living costs and a family-friendly environment, making it a top choice for healthcare professionals. North Carolina offers a lower cost of living than many other states, which allows professionals to maintain a comfortable lifestyle while saving for the future. Travel nursing jobs in North Carolina are ideal for those seeking a balance between work and personal life.

Additional Desired States

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Our survey also highlighted Ohio, Tennessee, and Arizona as preferred destinations for travel nurses and allied health professionals. Ohio offers job opportunities in cities like Cleveland and Columbus, with a low cost of living. Tennessee is known for its vibrant cultural scene in Nashville and strong healthcare job market. Arizona attracts professionals with its warm climate and job opportunities in Phoenix and Tucson, along with outdoor activities like hiking and exploring national parks. These states offer some of the best travel nursing destinations due to their unique combination of job opportunities and lifestyle benefits.

Advance Your Career in these Desired States

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Our survey has unveiled the most desired states for travel nurses and allied health professionals, highlighting the reasons behind their preferences. Whether it's the job opportunities, favorable climate, or proximity to family, these factors play a crucial role in choosing where to work. If you're looking to advance your career and explore new opportunities, consider starting your journey with Health Carousel. We offer a Full Circle of Support, ensuring you have the benefits and programs traditionally only available to full-time staff roles.

FAQs

What are the best states for travel nursing and allied health professionals to take an assignment?

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The best states for travel nurses and allied health professionals, according to our survey, include California, Florida, New York, Texas, Georgia, and North Carolina. These states offer a mix of job opportunities, favorable climates, and attractive lifestyles.

Why is California a top choice for travel nurses and allied health professionals?

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California is favored due to its high demand for travel nurses and allied health professionals, diverse job opportunities, and pleasant climate. The state offers a wide range of positions in various specialties in major cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego.

What makes Florida attractive for travel nursing and allied health jobs?

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Florida's warm climate, lower cost of living, and abundance of attractions such as beaches and theme parks make it a popular destination for travel nurses.

How does New York stand out for travel nurses and allied health professionals?

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New York offers extensive healthcare job opportunities, especially in prestigious hospitals and research institutions in cities like New York City. Its rich cultural scene and proximity to family and friends add to its appeal.

What are the benefits of working as a travel nurse or allied health professional in Texas?

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Texas provides a strong job market, affordable cost of living, and a vibrant lifestyle with urban and outdoor activities. Cities like Austin and Dallas are particularly attractive for healthcare professionals.

Why consider North Carolina for travel nursing and allied health jobs?

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North Carolina is known for its high quality of life, ample healthcare opportunities in cities like Charlotte and Raleigh, and affordable living costs.