Highest Paying Cities for Travel Nurses

Top paying cities for travel nurses change all the time, here are a few towns worth a second look.

American Traveler offers assignments in virtually every major metro area, but there are some cities that our travelers return to again and again. Why? Maybe it's the climate, the natural beauty, the friendly locals, or just the vibe. Here's four cities that are checking all the boxes right now, all with an abundance of assignments to choose from.

Why Portland, you ask? Well, it might have something to do with one of this city's popular taglines, "Keep Portland Weird." Now that doesn't mean that this town is full of weirdos (though there are probably a few). It means that this is a location that values open-mindedness, creativity, and living your best life.

Portland is a not-too-big / not-too-small city with a youthful population and a lower cost of living than most west-coast cities. There are also nine Oregon Health Authority-licensed hospitals in Portland. However, it is Portland’s performing arts centers (such as the nonprofit Portland Playhouse ) and scenic beauty that have attracted a surge of new residents to Portland.

A travel nursing job in Portland delivers a world of natural wonders, like:

Do you like being surrounded by people who love to learn? Boston has the largest number of universities in the U.S. Plus this town is home to numerous nationally renowned medical centers and teaching hospitals. A Boston travel nursing job in any of these prestigious facilities is a big plus on your nursing resume. Community theaters abound, and you'll encounter talented musicians not only in buzzy clubs but also on subway platforms. However, one of the foremost “pros” of living in this city is its proximity to the Harbor Islands, Blue Hills Reservation (with 125 miles of walking and hiking trails), and Cape Ann’s beaches.

This is an ethnically diverse town, with a melting-pot history reflected in cultural offerings, entertainment, and a variety of mouthwatering dining options. Boston is notably a three-season city, but even the winters -- which do have their upside -- put you in close proximity to some of the East Coast's best snow sports -- plus you're never far from a mug of hot cocoa and a cute sweater-scarf combo.

Sometimes Chicago is referred to as the "third coast". Is it because it's perched on the shore of Lake Michigan or because Chicago is the third-largest city in the U.S.? If you're up for metropolitan life, but New York seems too intense and L.A. seems too spread out, then travel nursing in Chicago should be your "first" choice. Chicago has absolutely everything you'd hope to find in a big city, tempered with a bit of that midwestern down-to-earth attitude. Along with a tremendous variety of cultural attractions and 552 urban parks, it contains 18 miles of car-free bike paths and a highly-ranked public transit system.

Because of Chicago's large population, it is one of the major healthcare centers in Illinois and in the Midwest. There are facilities of every size and specialty here, and an ongoing need for travelers. If you like your assignment in Chi-town, extending it is a real possibility.

While you're on assignment here, you can indulge in all kinds of cultural adventures (such as the Art Institute of Chicago), music venues, and restaurants. You'll never tire of visiting comedy clubs, plays, outdoor exhibitions, or just good-old window shopping along Michigan Ave.

Does the idea of an "Endless Summer" appeal to you? You may find that Fort Lauderdale is your dream destination. Sunshine and palm trees abound, and you are never more than a short trip from a beautiful ocean view. Even in the middle of January. Travel nursing in Florida does have a peak season (Winter), but due to its fast-growing population, travel nurse opportunities in Fort Lauderdale are available year-round.

South Florida is home to a high concentration of healthcare facilities. Some specialize in the types of care frequently needed by Florida's senior citizens, but travel nurse jobs in Fort Lauderdale are available in virtually every specialty, from Pediatrics to Emergency Care to Med/Surg nursing.

Many travelers choose Ft. Lauderdale for the climate and lifestyle, but an unexpected bonus is that the cost of living here is lower than in many other major metro areas. You can explore the Everglades from your home base, slip away to the Florida Keys, or hire out a fishing craft for the catch of the day. This city boasts a diverse population, with also means lots of great choices for dining out. If you're really ready to experience some international flair, you're just a drive away from Miami and all of its diversions.