Top States for Travel Nurses (Summer)

Although the rising demand has stabilized since the pandemic, experts believe that the outlook for travel nursing will continue to be good. As you consider your travel plans during the summer months, let’s look at the top 9 states where travel nurses can experience adventure while working.

These states were chosen based on scenery, weather, and events during the summer season.

Some of the best states for travel nurses include more than great healthcare assignments. These nine best states offer travel nurses the chance to enjoy sunny skies and visit uniquely American landmarks.

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Alaska is known for its breathtaking landscapes and vast wilderness. Travel nurses have the opportunity to experience a rugged coastline, mountains, glaciers, and abundant wildlife. The state is warm and sunny with temperatures ranging in the 60s and 70s.

One of the most popular attractions is Denali National Park, home to the tallest mountain in North America, Mount Denali. Visitors to the park can see moose, caribou, and grizzly bears. In Alaska’s Kenai Fjords National Park, travel nurses can take a boat tour and see towering glaciers up close. Anchorage is the largest city and home to many cultural attractions.

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Arizona is located in the Southwest and is known for its diverse landscape. You’ll experience canyons, forests, mountains, and deserts with scenic beauty that cannot be experienced anywhere else. Summer temperatures range in the 100s, but from July to September, refreshing thunderstorms offer a welcome break from the summer heat.

One of the most iconic landmarks is the Grand Canyon, which is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World. Arizona is home to a rich Native American heritage, and for those interested in sports, several major league teams call the state home.

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California is the quintessential summer destination. Located on the West Coast, the length and breadth of the state offer diverse landscapes, mild climates, many large cities, and abundant attractions.

Early morning hours may be foggy but this often burns off by midday. Some of the most popular beaches are located in Orange County, the Bay Area, and Los Angeles. California is also known for Disneyland in Anaheim and Universal Studios Hollywood in Los Angeles — which features Super Nintendo World that opened in early 2023.

Throughout the summer months, there are several music festivals, including Coachella, Stagecoach, and Outside Lands. Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks and spans the entrance to the San Francisco Bay.

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Outdoor enthusiasts are treated to several activities and attractions. The summer is typically mild and sunny with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the 80s. Travel nurses can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and traveling through numerous mountain ranges. Some of the most popular mountain destinations include Rocky Mountain National Park, the Maroon Bells, and Mount Evans.

Colorado hosts several major music festivals that attract some of the biggest names in music. Popular attractions include the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park and Pikes Peak. This is one of the highest peaks in the Rocky Mountains, where visitors can drive or take a scenic train ride for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

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Connecticut is well known for its charming towns, rich history, and rolling hills. The summer is typically warm and humid with temperatures ranging from the 60s along the coast to the 80s in the inland regions. It’s a popular destination for hiking, biking, and swimming. The numerous beaches offer miles of pristine sand, crystal clear water, and various recreational activities.

Numerous historic homes, museums, and gardens offer a glimpse into the state’s rich history and cultural heritage. For those interested in cultural events, Connecticut hosts several major music festivals. Visitors can visit Yale University in New Haven, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the country.

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The rugged coastline, charming small towns, and abundant natural beauty make Maine a unique destination. The weather is typically cool and mild with temperatures ranging from the 60s along the coast to the 70s in the interior region. It’s perfect for biking, hiking, and kayaking.

Maine is known for picturesque lighthouses and scenic vistas. Some of the most well known are in Acadia National Park and Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth.

The state is also home to numerous lakes and rivers for fishing, boating, and swimming. Maine hosts several major music festivals during the summer as well as the Maine Lobster Festival and the Boothbay Harbor Festival.

The Portland Observatory is the only remaining maritime signal tower in the country and offers visitors panoramic views of the city and the harbor.

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Maryland is known for its historic cities and abundant natural beauty. The weather is typically warm and the state is popular for outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and boating. Abundant beaches offer visitors pristine sand and a wide range of recreational activities.

The state’s historic cities offer a glimpse into colonial and revolutionary history. Visitors can explore the United States Naval Academy, Fort McHenry, and the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site in Washington D.C.

Chesapeake Bay Bridge connects the state’s eastern and western shores.

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The state John Denver made famous is located in the Appalachian region and known for stunning natural beauty, a rich cultural heritage, and outdoor recreational activities. Visitors are treated to hiking, fishing, camping, and boating in scenic parks and forests.

Some of its well-known natural attractions include Monongahela National Forest, the New River Gorge, and the Canaan Valley. There are several major festivals during the summer including dance, crafts, music, and traditional foods and drinks. The New River Gorge Bridge is one of the longest single-arch steel bridges in the world.

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South Carolina is located along the Southeast Coast and is a popular destination in the summer months for swimming, boating, and golfing. The scenic coastline features miles of beaches, dunes, and marshes. Some of the most well-known coastal attractions include Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head Island, and Kiawah Island.

Many of the colonial and revolutionary sites include Charleston Historic District, Fort Sumter National Monument, and the Congaree National Park. The state hosts the Charleston Wine and Food Festival and the Beaufort Water Festival, which feature local cuisine, music, and dance.

As you’re preparing for your next travel nurse assignment, think about these states for the summer. One factor to consider is whether your destination is part of the nurse licensure compact. This would allow you to use your nursing license across state lines. Alaska and California are the only two states on this list that do not currently participate.

Before traveling, consider becoming a float nurse at your current job. This helps to simulate the travel nurse experience. Finally, consider gaining specialty nursing experience, since specialist travel nurses are in higher demand, which gives you more options for travel nurse assignments and locations.