By Yusimi Lopez, Division Vice President of Recruiting
Travel nursing offers an exciting opportunity to work in diverse healthcare settings across the country. However, one of the significant challenges that travel nurses face is finding suitable housing. With assignments typically lasting around 13 weeks, securing comfortable and convenient accommodations is crucial. In this blog, we will explore different housing options available to travel nurses, key factors to consider, and how to make informed decisions to ensure a pleasant stay during your assignment. Understanding your options and how housing works will help you make the best decision for your needs and preferences. At All Medical, we aim to provide clarity on this topic so you can focus on what truly matters—your work.
Housing Arrangement Overview
Understanding the GSA Stipend for Housing
For nursing professionals, housing is covered through the General Services Administration (GSA) stipend. It is important to note that this stipend reflects the GSA maximum rate and is not “our” stipend—we do not control or alter these amounts.
With this stipend, travel nurses are expected to arrange and reserve their own housing. All Medical does not provide or book accommodations on behalf of our nurses. The GSA stipend is a monetary allowance that helps offset housing costs, giving you the flexibility to choose what works best for your lifestyle and location.
Assignments usually last around 13 weeks, so choosing a comfortable and well-located home is essential. This will be your base during your stay, making it crucial to find a place where you feel at home. Ensuring that your housing meets your needs can greatly enhance your overall experience as a travel nurse, providing a stable and supportive environment as you navigate your new assignment.
Define Your Situation First
Before diving into housing options, it’s important to assess your specific needs and preferences. Consider the following factors:
- Location: Proximity to your assignment location can reduce commute times and transportation costs.
- Travel Companions: Are you traveling alone or with family or pets? This will influence your choice of housing.
- Amenities: Do you need pet-friendly accommodations? Are you willing to live with a roommate? Do you want kitchen facilities?
- Lifestyle Preferences: Is there a particular area or neighborhood you prefer to live in?
By defining your situation and preferences, you can narrow down your housing options to those that best fit your needs.
Housing Options for Travel Nurses
When it comes to housing options for travel nurses, there are several choices available, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Travel nursing agency housing benefits provide significant flexibility, as most agencies have contracts with short-term corporate housing complexes or extended stay hotels. These options may or may not be furnished, but they are typically close to the target facility, which can reduce commute times and transportation costs. This proximity can be particularly beneficial for nurses working long shifts, as it allows for more rest and less time spent on the road. Moreover, agency-provided housing often includes utilities and internet, adding convenience and reducing out-of-pocket expenses.
Short-term Furnished Rental
Short-term furnished rentals, such as those found on Airbnb or VRBO, offer another viable option. These rentals provide flexibility in terms of rental periods and often feature more personalized living spaces, making it feel more like a home away from home. These accommodations can range from cozy apartments to entire houses, allowing nurses to choose a setting that best fits their lifestyle. For instance, if a nurse is traveling with family or pets, they can opt for larger spaces that accommodate their needs. However, these rentals may be limited to single dwellings, and some hosts or landlords might only offer short-term stays, requiring nurses to book multiple rentals back-to-back. This can be inconvenient and sometimes stressful, as it involves frequent moving and adjusting to new environments.
Short-term Hotels
Short-term stay hotels are also suitable, particularly for assignments shorter than 13 weeks. These hotels offer no long-term commitments and include services like housekeeping, which can be a major plus for busy nurses who might not have the time or energy to clean after long shifts. Hotels often provide amenities such as gyms, pools, and breakfast services, enhancing the overall living experience. However, they can be more expensive than other housing options, especially in high-demand areas or during peak seasons. The lack of a kitchen in some hotel rooms can also be a drawback, as it limits the ability to prepare home-cooked meals, leading to higher dining expenses.
Rent a Room
Renting a room from a private party can be cost-effective but varies based on the landlord’s terms. This option often provides a more personal touch, as it involves living in someone’s home. It’s essential to ensure the environment is conducive to work and rest, which means considering factors such as noise levels, privacy, and the compatibility of living with the host or other tenants. Clear communication about expectations and boundaries is crucial to prevent potential conflicts. Additionally, the flexibility of lease terms can vary, so it’s important to discuss the length of stay and any possible extensions upfront.
Home-sharing
Lastly, home-sharing with local house-sitting opportunities can provide unique experiences and save on housing costs. This arrangement not only offers free rent but also a chance to live in a fully furnished home with all the amenities one might need. The added benefit of a double income opportunity comes from the fact that nurses can save on rent while possibly earning money from house-sitting duties. However, this option may come with its own set of challenges, such as meeting the homeowner’s expectations and managing house-sitting responsibilities. Tasks could include caring for pets, maintaining the garden, and ensuring the home is secure, which might add to a nurse’s workload.
In conclusion, the right housing choice for travel nurses depends on individual preferences, assignment duration, and budget. Travel nursing agency housing offers convenience and proximity to work, while short-term rentals provide a home-like atmosphere. Hotels offer amenities and services but can be costly, whereas renting a room or house-sitting can be economical yet require careful consideration of living arrangements and responsibilities. A travel nursing agency that offers competitive housing stipends gives you the flexibility to select the accommodation that fits you best. By weighing these options and considering personal needs, travel nurses can find the ideal housing solution to make their assignments as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
Considerations for Travel Nurse Housing
When finalizing your housing, keep the following considerations in mind:
- Contract Length and Flexibility: Ensure that your housing contract matches the length of your placement. Flexibility in extending or shortening the stay can be crucial if your assignment changes.
- Budget: Balance between comfort and cost. While agency-provided housing might be convenient, personal rentals might offer more home-like amenities. If you are able to find affordable, safe housing you may be able to save the difference from your housing stipend, meaning more money in your pocket.
- Safety and Neighborhood: Research the safety and convenience of the neighborhood, considering factors like proximity to public transport, grocery stores, and recreational activities.
- Communication with Landlords or Hosts: Clear communication about your needs and duration of stay can prevent misunderstandings and ensure a smoother experience.
- Storage and Moving Logistics: Consider what you’ll do with your belongings between assignments. Some travel nurses opt for storage units or minimalist living to ease transitions.
Conclusion
Travel nursing offers a dynamic and rewarding career path, with the opportunity to explore new places and gain diverse professional experiences. Finding the right housing is a critical aspect of ensuring a successful and enjoyable assignment. By understanding your options, assessing your needs, and planning accordingly, you can secure the ideal accommodation for your travel nursing assignments. The key is to prioritize comfort, convenience, and cost-effectiveness. Happy travels!
