As hospitals and facilities from coast to coast face the increased need for RNs to ensure patient care stays a priority, some states have been hit by the nursing shortage harder than others. With the population of baby boomers aging, chronic illnesses increasing, nurse burnout, and the retirement of experienced nurses, the healthcare industry is taking a major hit. So, what states need nurses the most right now? Here are the top 10 in-demand states that have available travel nursing jobs!
1. Arizona
Arizona’s warm climate and affordable living have made it a top-notch destination for retirees and young professionals to migrate to. However, with this influx of people calling the Grand Canyon State home, it also means it’s one of the top states that needs nurses. As the population grows, Arizona’s healthcare infrastructure must always stay two steps ahead so care never falls by the wayside, but this poses a challenge as nurses are the backbone to run these facilities, and little are available to do so. Arizona could have the worst nursing crisis in the nation by 2025 if the trend continues. Now is the time to take on a travel job in Arizona and see what this amazing state has to offer!
2. California
As the most populated state in the U.S., California consistently tops the list of states that have the highest demand for nurses. The state’s diverse, growing, and aging population, coupled with increased emphasis on preventative care and community health, and commitment to innovative healthcare have all resulted in the increased need for nurses to deliver quality care to all. While the Golden State’s cost of living is on the higher end compared to other states and might deter RNs from planting permanent roots here, it’s the highest paying travel nurse location, and there are tons of travel jobs to explore in California perfect for any specialty.
3. Colorado
Between breathtaking mountain views and an ever-growing population, Colorado has a lot to offer—but it’s also facing a serious nursing shortage. As more people move to the Centennial State for its lifestyle and booming cities like Denver and Colorado Springs, the demand for healthcare has surged. Rising housing costs and nurse burnout have pushed many out of metro areas, while rural and mountain towns are struggling to staff essential care roles. Many facilities now rely on travel nurses to help meet demand, especially in emergency, mental health, and maternity care, and there are tons of travel nurse jobs in Colorado to help make an impact.
4. Florida
Known for its large population of retirees and being a destination hotspot for snowbirds and tourists, Florida is a high-demand state for nurses, especially in long-term care facilities to help care for the aging population. Additionally, the Sunshine State doesn’t have clear skies all the time as two-thirds of Florida is bordered by water, which means it’s more susceptible to hurricanes, leading to spikes in emergency care from June to November. But don’t let some temperamental weather rain on your parade—the area’s diverse food scene and tons of attractions to explore is a major draw to take a travel job in Florida and plant temporary roots.
5. Georgia
Georgia has emerged as one of the top states that need nurses most due to a growing population, rising rates of chronic illness, and critical care disparities in rural areas. Conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity are prevalent, placing increased demands on emergency rooms, ICUs, and primary care clinics. Meanwhile, rural hospitals continue to face challenges attracting full-time staff, heavily relying on temporary professionals. This has created a steady demand for travel nurse jobs in Georgia, especially for those looking to provide crucial care in both high-tech city hospitals and under-resourced small towns.
6. New York
As the epicenter of Covid-19 during the pandemic’s early stages, it’s no surprise that New York is among the top states that desperately needs RNs. With a growing population of more than 19 million people and vast healthcare landscape known for innovative research and prestigious hospitals, the Empire State requires a steady flow of nurses who are skilled and ready to hit the ground running to meet patient needs. From bustling cities like New York City to remote regions, healthcare professionals are essential in ensuring quality care reaches all corners of the state, and there are lots of travel nurse jobs in New York to help make that happen.
7. North Carolina
North Carolina is experiencing a widespread nursing shortage as its healthcare system grapples with rapid population growth, an aging population, and uneven access to care between urban and rural areas. While metropolitan hubs like Charlotte and Raleigh continue to expand, their hospitals are often overwhelmed with high patient volumes and limited staff. Meanwhile, rural regions are facing severe nurse deficits, putting additional stress on already-strained facilities. The state’s aging population, especially in retirement-friendly areas, also increases the need for skilled nurses in long-term care and home health settings. If you’re considering travel nurse jobs in North Carolina, now is the perfect time—there are countless openings across a wide range of specialties and settings.
8. Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is in need of nurses, especially in its rural communities and aging urban centers. Statewide average RN vacancy rates are around 14%, and vacancy rates in rural hospitals surge to over 26%. With a significant portion of it’s population over 65 growing and a high rate of chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease, the state’s healthcare system is under pressure to provide high-quality care. This is aggravated by over 20,000 RN shortfall projected by 2026. Thankfully, there are numerous travel nurse jobs in Pennsylvania available right now, offering RNs the chance to make a real difference while exploring a state rich in history, culture, and charm.
9. Texas
Texas has a nursing shortage due to population growth, its vast geographical size, and surge of healthcare facilities across urban and rural areas to keep up with the influx of chronic diseases and long-term effects of the pandemic. Rural areas are particularly struggling to attract and retain skilled nurses, which has led the state to expand their nursing education programs and provide extra incentives for nurses to work in these areas. This means that there are tons of travel nurse jobs available in Texas to help foster a healthier community.
10. Washington
Known for its breathtaking scenery and progressive healthcare system, Washington is another high-demanding state for nurses. The state’s emphasis on mental health services, preventative care, and integrated health systems means there’s a need for skilled RNs. Seattle’s bustling healthcare scene offers opportunities in top-tier hospitals and research institutions, while rural areas are in desperate need of support due to limited staffing and geographic challenges. Washington also faces the ripple effects of nurse burnout and retirement. Fortunately, there are abundant travel nurse jobs in Washington, allowing nurses to step into high-demand roles while enjoying the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty and vibrant cities.
Find the Right Travel Nurse Job with Medical Solutions
As the demand for nurses continues to go up across the country, there are some states in dire need of dedicated nurses in all specialties to help make sure the wellbeing of patients is always top priority. Whether you’re a nurse thinking about changing your scenery or you’re already a nurse traveling and looking for your next assignment, consider taking a travel nurse job in one of these high-demand states. Our recruiters will help you find the right job, housing, and benefits that fit your needs—apply today to get started.
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