Snow-Capped Opportunities: A Travel Nurse Guide to Living & Working in a Winter Wonderland

As winter blankets the world in a serene layer of snow, travel nurses have the unique opportunity to embark on a journey to some of the most enchanting destinations. The chilly season opens doors to experiences both magical and invigorating, inviting healthcare professionals to embrace the winter wonderlands while fulfilling their crucial roles. In this blog, we will explore the best winter travel nursing destinations where healthcare meets adventure.

From ski resorts nestled in the mountains to charming towns adorned with festive lights, these destinations not only offer healthcare career opportunities, but also promise unforgettable memories. So, bundle up and join us on a journey through the top winter havens for travel nurses seeking both professional growth and the joy of winter exploration.

Tennessee

With the Volunteer State being ranked 10th in the nation for affordable cost of living*, travel nurses working and living in Tennessee can actually afford to visit famous locales like Music City (Nashville) or cozy up in one of the rustic cabins in Gatlinburg for a long weekend. Now that’s music to our ears!

Attractions: The Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Gatlinburg

Texas

Embrace the rich history and moderate winter climate of the Lone Star State. With a thriving healthcare sector and cultural attractions, Texas is a great destination for a winter travel nursing assignment.

Attractions: San Antonio Riverwalk, Magnolia Market in Waco

>> Check out our Texas Destination Spotlight for more info about travel nursing in the Lone Star State.

Washington

Washington State’s freshly minted status as a compact state has more travel nurses looking into travel assignments in and around the Evergreen State. Seattle and the surrounding areas are already credited with having competitive pay rates, safe ratios, and an established travel nursing community.

Attractions: Pike Place Market, Bainbridge Island, Bavarian village of Leavenworth

North Carolina

Whether you drive up the famous Blue Ridge Parkway for Asheville’s vibrant art scene or a brisk mountain hike in the Appalachian Mountains, The Tar Heel State has a little something for everyone – in fact, “The Variety Vacationland” is one of North Carolina’s other state nicknames of record.

Attractions: Grandfather Mountain, The Great Smoky Mountains

North Dakota

If the thought of bustling city streets or another crowded commute to work makes your blood pressure spike, just take a deep breath….and head up to the tranquil prairies of North Dakota. Thanks to the rural landscape and simple way of life North Dakota natives have come to cherish, rush hour traffic, and overpriced city living are two things you’ll see very little of in The Peace Garden State.

Attractions: Downtown Fargo, Bonanzaville in West Fargo, The Rendezvous Region

Louisiana

For those who prefer to flock down to a warmer climate during the colder months, you can leave your parka behind. Even if you don’t come down to Louisiana for the weather, come for the rich music and food culture throughout the entire state.

Attractions: Christmas in the Oaks in New Orleans, The New Orleans Pharmacy Museum

>> Want to learn more about travel nursing in Louisiana? We’ve got you! 

Arizona

For a warmer winter, head west to Arizona. The Grand Canyon State isn’t just home to one of the most famous natural wonders in the world. It’s also home to several up-and-coming travel nursing hotspots like Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Flagstaff.

Attractions: The Grand Canyon, Lake Havasu City

Montana

With access to outdoor adventures like skiing, snowboarding and winter hiking, coupled with a thriving healthcare sector, the Treasure State is an appealing destination for travel nurses.

Attractions: Big Sky Country in Bozeman, Yellowstone National Park, Flathead Lake in Polson

>> Treat yourself to a change of pace (and PLACE) by exploring all the travel nursing assignments we have available nationwide.

>> Check out our Travel Safety Tips blog post for a quick brush-up on best practices & safety measures to help travel nurses work, travel, and adventure safely.