Best states for travel nurses 2026 are shaped by post-pandemic staffing gaps, ageing populations, hospital expansions, and a new wave of nurses choosing flexible work over permanent roles.
Unlike previous years, best states for travel nurses 2026 are not just about the highest hourly rate. They are about where pay stretches further, contracts are easier to secure, and daily life feels balanced rather than exhausting. Many nurses now prioritise lower competition, predictable schedules, safe communities, and access to nature alongside strong income.
This guide focuses on best states for travel nurses 2026 that deliver on all three pillars: money, opportunity, and lifestyle.
In This Article
How this guide evaluates the best states
To identify the best states for travel nurses 2026, several real-world factors were weighed together rather than in isolation. Pay alone does not tell the full story, and quality of life means different things depending on career stage.
Key factors used to rank best states for travel nurses 2026 include:
- Average and peak travel nurse pay rates
- Volume of open contracts and speed of placement
- Nurse-to-job competition levels
- Cost of living and housing availability
- Licensing ease and compact status
- Lifestyle quality including safety, commute, and recreation
This approach ensures the best states for travel nurses 2026 are realistic choices, not just headline earners.
1. California: highest pay with unmatched demand
Why California leads the list
When people talk about the best states for travel nurses 2026, California still sets the benchmark for pay. Weekly travel contracts here frequently top the national scale, especially in ICU, ER, labour and delivery, and telemetry. State-mandated nurse-to-patient ratios also create consistent demand, making California one of the best states for travel nurses 2026 for contract stability.
Pay versus cost of living
While housing and daily expenses are high, stipends and gross pay are often enough to offset them, especially for short-term assignments. Nurses who share housing or choose inland cities stretch earnings even further, reinforcing California’s position among the best states for travel nurses 2026.
Lifestyle considerations
Beaches, national parks, mild weather, and world-class food scenes make assignments feel like extended working holidays. For nurses who value both income and experience, California remains one of the best states for travel nurses 2026.
2. Texas: strong pay with lower competition
Why Texas is a favourite in 2026
Texas consistently ranks among the best states for travel nurses 2026 due to sheer volume of hospital systems and population growth. Large metro areas and regional hospitals alike post steady contracts, reducing competition for each role.
Financial advantages
No state income tax significantly boosts take-home pay. While base rates may be lower than California, overall savings often make Texas one of the best states for travel nurses 2026 financially.
Quality of life
Affordable housing, diverse food culture, and short commute times contribute to day-to-day comfort. Nurses who want stability without sacrificing earnings often rank Texas as one of the best states for travel nurses 2026.
3. Florida: lifestyle appeal with year-round demand
Why Florida keeps demand high
An ageing population and year-round tourism keep hospitals busy, placing Florida firmly among the best states for travel nurses 2026. Seasonal surges also create recurring short-term contract opportunities.
Earnings and expenses
Pay rates sit in the mid-to-upper range nationally, and lack of state income tax improves net income. Careful housing choices make Florida one of the best states for travel nurses 2026 for balancing work and leisure.
Lifestyle perks
Warm weather, beaches, and outdoor living attract nurses seeking more than just a paycheck. For many, Florida’s lifestyle cements its place among the best states for travel nurses 2026.
4. New York: premium contracts in high-acuity settings
Why New York remains competitive
New York offers some of the most specialised travel nurse roles in the country. High-acuity units and teaching hospitals ensure steady demand, making it one of the best states for travel nurses 2026 for skill advancement.
Pay realities
Urban contracts pay very well, especially in critical care. Upstate assignments provide a cost-of-living advantage while still ranking New York among the best states for travel nurses 2026.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Fast-paced cities suit nurses who thrive on energy and opportunity, while rural areas offer quieter living. This flexibility keeps New York relevant among the best states for travel nurses 2026.
5. Arizona: rising demand with manageable costs
Why Arizona is climbing fast
Rapid population growth and retiree migration are driving hospital expansion, pushing Arizona into the conversation for best states for travel nurses 2026.
Pay and competition
Rates are competitive, and nurse competition remains lower than coastal markets. Housing costs are still reasonable, strengthening Arizona’s position among the best states for travel nurses 2026.
Lifestyle benefits
Sunshine, hiking, and short commutes appeal to nurses who value outdoor living. Arizona balances income and lifestyle better than many, earning its place among the best states for travel nurses 2026.
6. Washington: strong unions and work-life balance
Why Washington stands out
Washington’s strong labour protections and nursing culture make it one of the best states for travel nurses 2026 for job satisfaction.
Financial outlook
Pay is high, particularly in urban centres, and there is no state income tax. Despite housing costs, Washington remains one of the best states for travel nurses 2026 for net earnings.
Lifestyle quality
Access to mountains, coastline, and progressive cities attracts nurses seeking balance, reinforcing Washington’s place among the best states for travel nurses 2026.
7. North Carolina: consistent demand and easy living
Why nurses choose North Carolina
Large healthcare systems and medical research hubs create constant openings. This reliability makes North Carolina one of the best states for travel nurses 2026 for frequent placements.
Cost versus income
Pay is solid and housing remains affordable. For nurses seeking steady work without financial strain, North Carolina ranks among the best states for travel nurses 2026.
Lifestyle appeal
Moderate climate, family-friendly cities, and short travel distances support work-life balance, keeping it in the best states for travel nurses 2026 list.
8. Colorado: quality of life over pure pay
Why Colorado attracts lifestyle-focused nurses
Colorado is ideal for nurses who prioritise environment and mental wellbeing. This makes it one of the best states for travel nurses 2026 beyond salary alone.
Earnings snapshot
Pay is competitive though not the highest nationally. Lower stress and outdoor access compensate, positioning Colorado among the best states for travel nurses 2026 for long-term satisfaction.
Everyday living
Safe cities, active communities, and scenic beauty keep burnout low, a growing priority in the best states for travel nurses 2026.
Compact licence states and low-competition advantages
Nurses with multistate licences gain access to many of the best states for travel nurses 2026 without repeated paperwork. Compact states often have faster onboarding and less competition for urgent contracts, enhancing earning potential.
Choosing the right state for your goals
Not every nurse values the same things. The best states for travel nurses 2026 depend on whether your priority is maximum income, lifestyle, career growth, or ease of contracts.
Quick matching guide:
- Highest pay focus: California, New York
- Low competition focus: Texas, Arizona
- Lifestyle focus: Colorado, Washington, Florida
- Balance of all three: North Carolina, Texas
Understanding your personal priorities ensures you choose among the best states for travel nurses 2026 wisely.
Must Read:
- How Much Do Travel Nurses Make Per Week in 2026
- Top Travel Nurse Mistakes to Avoid in 2026
- Smart Travel Nurse Financial Tips for 2026
Final thoughts:
The best states for travel nurses 2026 are no longer defined by pay alone. Nurses who succeed in 2026 choose states where contracts are plentiful, competition is manageable, and life outside the hospital feels sustainable.
Whether you chase top earnings, outdoor living, or consistent placements, the best states for travel nurses 2026 offer more choice and flexibility than ever before. With informed planning, 2026 can be one of the most rewarding years yet for travel nursing careers.
