For travel nurses, the South can be a great place to look for your next assignment. There are major healthcare hubs, warm-weather destinations, fast-growing cities, and plenty of assignments across specialties. Whether you want beach access, lively downtowns, mountain weekends, or a strong mix of hospital settings, the South gives you options.
Of course, not every state brings the same kind of opportunity. So, we’re breaking down the best states for travel nurses in the South, plus the RN specialties that are often in demand in each one.
1. Alabama
Alabama is a great option for travel nurses who want to explore a different kind of Southern assignment. The state offers opportunities across metro areas, smaller cities, and community-based facilities, giving clinicians the chance to take on meaningful work while exploring a wide mix of care settings beyond the region’s biggest markets.
This southern state can also be a refreshing place to spend a contract. Between its welcoming feel, slower pace, and mix of small-city charm and outdoor access, it offers travel nurses a setting that can feel both comfortable and easy to settle into.
In-Demand Specialties in Alabama
- Med Surg
- ICU
- ER
- Telemetry
2. Florida
Florida stays high on the list of the best states for travel nursing in the South for good reason. It offers warm-weather assignments, well-known destinations, and a broad range of travel nurse jobs across the state. For clinicians who like the idea of heading south for their next contract, Florida has obvious appeal, especially with its seasonal demand, large healthcare market, and high volume of assignments across several specialties during peak times of year.
The Sunshine State also brings a lot to the overall assignment experience. For travel nurses, that can look like spending a few months near white-sand beaches, coastal restaurants, waterfront trails, and the kind of scenery that makes it easy to settle into a new routine.
In-Demand Specialties in Florida
- Med Surg
- Telemetry
- ICU
- Home Health
3. Georgia
Georgia offers travel nurses a nice blend of city energy and assignment variety. Atlanta brings a larger healthcare market and hospital systems into the mix, while cities like Albany and Savannah offer opportunities for those seeking smaller patient populations and a quieter pace of life in regional and small community settings.
A contract in Georgia can come with a pretty great mix once you are off the clock. Think mountain views in North Georgia, weekends by the lake, and the kind of Southern comfort food that can make a few months here easy to enjoy.
In-Demand Specialties in Georgia
- ICU
- ER
- PCU
- Labor and Delivery
4. North Carolina
North Carolina continues to be one of the best states for travel nursing in the South because of the wide range of opportunities tied to its large healthcare systems and rapidly growing population. RNs can choose from assignments in major medical centers or explore roles across different specialties and regions throughout the state. That level of access and flexibility makes North Carolina a strong option for nurses looking to expand their skills while keeping their career options open.
There are also plenty of things for travel nurses to explore outside of work, from mountain getaways to vibrant cities and coastal escapes. Whether it’s hiking, local breweries, or weekend trips, there’s no shortage of ways to spend time off.
In-Demand Specialties in North Carolina
- ICU
- Telemetry
- OR
- NICU
5. South Carolina
South Carolina is a great fit for travel nurses who want steady demand and the chance to work in a variety of care settings. Assignments can range from community hospitals to coastal facilities, giving RNs the opportunity to build well-rounded experience while stepping into roles that are truly needed. Its mix of smaller markets and growing regions also makes it easier for nurses to find positions that feel both impactful and manageable.
On days off, South Carolina offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle with easy access to beaches, charming downtowns, and scenic outdoor spaces. The slower pace and welcoming atmosphere make it an easy place for nurses to unwind and recharge.
In-Demand Specialties in South Carolina
- Med Surg
- ICU
- ER
- Labor and Delivery
6. Tennessee
Tennessee stands out as one of the best states for travel nursing thanks to steady demand and opportunities across major healthcare systems and regional facilities. RNs can find assignments ranging from large urban hospitals to smaller community settings, offering the chance to build diverse, hands-on experience while supporting real staffing needs. This mix of environments makes Tennessee a strong choice for nurses looking to grow their skills across multiple settings.
Tennessee also offers plenty of experiences outside of work. Between its music scene, standout food, and access to the Smokies, it is easy to see why many travel nurses enjoy taking assignments here.
In-Demand Specialties in Tennessee
- ICU
- Med Surg
- OR
- PACU
7. Texas
Texas is one of the best states in the South for travel nursing thanks to its consistently high demand for healthcare professionals across major metro areas and rural communities alike. From fast-paced urban hospitals in cities like Houston and Dallas to critical access facilities in smaller towns, nurses have a wide variety of assignments to choose from that match their skills and career goals.
Beyond the job, Texas offers a vibrant mix of culture, energy, and experiences that can make an assignment feel like home. Warm weather, an amazing food scene, live music, major sports, festivals, and plenty of outdoor recreation give clinicians lots to enjoy between shifts.
In-Demand Specialties in Texas
- ICU
- ER
- Labor and Delivery
- OR
Find the Right Southern Travel Nursing Assignment
The best states for travel nursing in the South offer more than just open jobs. They give clinicians the chance to find the right mix of opportunities, flexibility, and lifestyle fit. Whether you are looking for strong demand, a wide range of assignments, or a destination that feels rewarding on and off the clock, Medical Solutions is here to help you find your next great match.
If you’re ready to start achieving your healthcare career dreams, now is the time to explore what travel nurse jobs are waiting for you. Not sure where to start? Sign up today, and one of our expert recruiters will help you find the perfect match!
