Travel Nursing.....how does the housing work?

bagladyrn, RN · Oct 24, 2011

Depending on the company housing can vary greatly. Some companies will provide a 1 bdrm. apt. with all utilities and rental furniture, occasionally "turnkey" with dishes, linens, etc. Some will provide the housing with the traveler responsible for some of the utilities or any over a certain amount per month. Some will house in a motel or extended stay. The other option that most have is to pay you a stipend (varying by location) and you find your own housing.

This is why it is important to be absolutely sure you understand what is provided and have it in writing in your contract.

martjohn · Oct 25, 2011

The company that I've been with since I've started travelling will provide housing and pay for all housing expenses (rent and all utilities) except for a pet deposit (usually about $250-$500, depending on location). I've always chosen to take the stipend, but I've met other nurses in my company that take the housing and they end up with varied arrangements.

Long story short, it varies depending on your situation and location. A few examples all from the same company - 2 nurses traveling together in Austin, TX got a nice furnished 2 br apartment in a gated community, but it was a 20 minute drive through the most congested traffic in the city. Another - single traveler with a dog in Tucson, AZ ended up in a 2 bedroom, furnished, gated community again, 25 minute drive from hospital. I almost took housing for a last-minute 5 week assignment in Austin too, but heard it was an extended stay hotel and decided to opt out.

I always find my own housing, because of what I think are great benefits:

1. You usually end up being able to pocket most of the stipend. I find short term housing options on Craigslist (and vet very thoroughly before making any definite plans or send any money) and they end up being much cheaper than any furnished corporate housing that is readily available in most cities. During these tough times, a lot of great folks are opening up rooms in their homes for some extra money to help with the mortgage. Look at the climbing popularity of sites like airbnb.com.

2. Making local friends quickly/getting to know the area better, quicker. What better way to get to know the area better than knowing someone who's a native? I've found the "places to be" much easier by way of the awesome people I've lived with. Plus, it's nice to be able to come home to other people after a long or difficult day.

I may have just been super lucky 3 times in a row, but I feel like it has alot to do with my high standards and how hard I work at asking tons of questions from the potential roommates. People that are worth living with will be more than happy to answer all the questions you may have and provide plenty of references, photos, etc.