Large cities, such as Atlanta, Boston, and Denver can be great places to work as a travel nurse. But midsize cities also have a lot going for them. Medium-sized cities often have less competition than large cities when it comes to getting a travel job. The cost of living is also usually less than in large cities, which means your food and entertainment budget may go further.
Midsize cities may also seem less overwhelming than faster-paced big cities. Many smaller towns still offer lots of recreational opportunities and activities to enjoy on your days off. A midsize city may be the perfect fit for your next travel nursing assignment. Below are four great choices.
Boise, Idaho
Boise has several things going for it. The city of about 223,000 has mild winters and summers are not too hot. It has a few large medical centers including the Boise VA Medical Center and St. Luke’s Boise Medical Center. Boise is also home to several smaller healthcare facilities where travel nurses can find assignments.
If you are an outdoor enthusiast, Boise is a good choice. It has miles of hiking and biking trails and is minutes away from ski mountains and rivers. The city hosts several annual festivals including the Harris Jazz Festival and the Idaho Shakespeare Festival.
Syracuse, New York
You don’t have to work in the Big Apple to enjoy a travel assignment in New York. With a population of about 148,000, Syracuse is much smaller than Manhattan and the other boroughs of New York City, but there is still a lot to enjoy.
Syracuse has several healthcare facilities where travel nurses may find work including Upstate University Hospital, which is a level-one trauma center. There are plenty of things to do in Syracuse on your days off including a trip to Rosamond Gifford Zoo, Onondaga Lake Park, and Destiny USA. If big city life calls, a drive into New York City takes about four hours.
Fargo, North Dakota
Fargo is the largest city in North Dakota with a population of about 120,000. Travel nurses might find opportunities at healthcare facilities, such as Sanford Medical Center and Prairie St. John’s, which is an inpatient psychiatric hospital.
Fargo may have a small-town feel, but there are still lots of things to do. Fargo is home to several museums, parks, and cultural activities. Check out one of the small theater companies or a show at the Fargo Moorhead Opera.
Boulder, Colorado
Although it only has a population of about 108,000, Boulder may be a great choice for travel nurses. In addition to Boulder Community Hospital, there are also several other hospitals in nearby cities where travel nurses may find assignments.
One of the perks of working in Boulder is the picturesque scenery. Boulder is located at the base of the Rocky Mountains. If you enjoy the outdoors, Boulder has it all. There are opportunities for skiing, fishing, and hiking. Boulder is also very bike friendly with over 300 miles of bike paths and lanes throughout the city.
If you have not accepted a travel assignment in a midsize city, it might be time to give it a try. With all the choices you have, it may be hard to narrow it down to one city. Have you worked in a small or midsize city as a travel nurse?
Whether you’re looking for a new nursing opportunity or want to further your career in a school setting by taking on a travel job in a new city, we have opportunities for you! Check them out here.