Each new assignment you take as a travel nurse offers the opportunity to travel to a new location — often somewhere you’ve never been before. Adventure is part of the allure, and many travel nurses have a bucket list of destinations. When the need arises, they can jump at the chance to live and work in a place they’ve always dreamed of.

In 2023, several cities stand out for travel nurses. These areas provide a combination of prestigious healthcare institutions, ample job possibilities, desirable lifestyles, and vibrant communities. Whether you crave the bustling streets of San Francisco or the rich history of Boston, let’s explore the top cities for travel nurses.

Top travel nursing destinations

As you think about your dream assignment locales, make sure they align with your expectations for pay, lifestyle, amenities, and career prospects. While working in a beach town might be fun, it may not be fulfilling if it doesn’t advance your career. Likewise, working at a great facility might not be worth living in a city where you are always stressed.

Keep these factors in mind when considering the top travel nursing destinations below:

1. San Francisco: This city is home to some of America’s most renowned healthcare facilities, including UCSF Medical Center and Stanford. San Francisco’s mild weather and diverse culture — as well as top-tier pay — make it a desirable location.
2. New York City: A dream destination for many travel nurses, New York City has high-paying job opportunities in hospitals like NewYork-Presbyterian or Mount Sinai.
3. Seattle: With its breathtaking views of the mountains and water, Seattle offers a high quality of life and plenty of outdoor activities. Major hospitals in this city include the University of Washington and Virginia Mason.
4. Boston: Boston has both historic charm and world-class healthcare. Facilities such as Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital provide ample jobs for travel nurses.
5. Los Angeles: As the entertainment capital of the world, Los Angeles is a draw for many travel nurses. Major hospitals include Keck Medical Center at USC and the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center.
6. Denver: A popular location for outdoor enthusiasts and healthcare professionals, Denver offers proximity to the Rocky Mountains, first-rate healthcare facilities like the UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital, and a thriving craft beer industry.
7. Chicago: The Windy City is one of the most robust healthcare job markets in the United States, making it a terrific destination for travel nurses. Hospitals like Northwestern Memorial Hospital and the University of Chicago Medical Center are well respected.
8. Houston: If you’re searching for an affordable location with excellent pay, Houston is a fantastic choice. Renowned hospitals such as Texas Medical Center and Houston Methodist Hospital offer plenty of job prospects.
9. Atlanta: Atlanta has both Southern hospitality and a thriving music and arts scene. Healthcare facilities such as Emory Healthcare and Piedmont Atlanta Hospital are among the top employers in the city with well-paying positions for travel nurses.
10. Phoenix: Known for its desert climate and beautiful cactus-lined landscapes, Phoenix has an outstanding healthcare system including Banner Health, Mayo Clinic, and Phoenix Children’s Hospital.

Where will travel nursing take you this year?

Are you ready for a change of scenery and great compensation? The possibilities are endless for travel nurses. As you determine which city and assignment are best for you, do some research, and don’t forget to work with your recruiter to find the right fit and ensure a fulfilling experience.