New Grad FNP. Work in FL or AZ?

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I am a soon-to-be new FNP grad, currently live in Phoenix, AZ. But, have been considering a move to Florida, closer to family. I know practice is restricted in Florida, but how is the pay and job pool? How are the prospects for new grads? It looks to me that salaries are a bit lower in FL and that AZ has more jobs, but curious to hear thoughts. Any insight is greatly appreciated.

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Specializes in Peds OR as RN, Peds ENT as NP.

My advice is to not get hung up on the location but the actual offers (contract) you receive. Apply in FL and AZ. I am in FL and feel salaries are lower, but if you can find employment with benefits and income that work for you you'll be fine! Best of luck!

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Specializes in Family Nurse Practitioner.

FL job market is pretty tough especially without experience. I would try AZ, there are plenty of opportunities there.

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Specializes in Hospice, corrections, psychiatry, rehab, LTC.

My sister just finished her APRN in Florida, and she is finding it all but impossible to find employment.

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Family is important. But if you are talking solely about job aspect and pay and autonomy, Arizona is generally better. If you are young and feel like wanting to explore and meet new people, go to Arizona. Don't know can't decide for you. One thing to remember about AZ, there is income tax in AZ 4.5% and sale tax can be quite high in some area like 8%! However, cost of living is not that high... just want to add to your calculation

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Specializes in Assistant Professor, Nephrology, Internal Medicine.

I would even look in the surrounding states to see what the need is/typical salary for NPs in the area.

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Specializes in Assistant Professor, Nephrology, Internal Medicine.
My sister just finished her APRN in Florida, and she is finding it all but impossible to find employment.

I have also heard this from multiple individuals.

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It is very difficult as a new grad to find a job in Florida even in rural areas. You will find one but the wait may be longer than you want and the job / pay may not be ideal but most will take it and grab some experience. There are many jobs for those with 1-2 years experience so sticking with it and learning will pay off.

It took 5 months to find a full time job. I was lucky enough to have a group that I could work with 20-30 hours a week covering evenings and weekends but most don't. The market is even more saturated now.

I don't know much about AZ job market but I do get a ton of job recruiters trying to lure NP's out to the region AZ,NM, West Tx.

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