Looking to map out your travel nursing adventures for 2025? We’ve curated a seasonal guide to help you explore diverse locations throughout the year. Each state has been selected to showcase its peak season, whether that means perfect weather, unique cultural events, or optimal outdoor activities to enjoy between shifts.
From experiencing the northern lights during an Alaska winter assignment to closing out your year with a December contract in Hawaii, this guide helps you align your travel nursing journey with what each state has to offer. We’ve considered factors like seasonal activities, housing considerations, and local attractions to help you make the most of each assignment.
1. January – Alaska
Start your year with an adventure in The Last Frontier. While the darkness and cold might seem daunting, January offers unique experiences like the northern lights and world-class winter sports. Many facilities offer crisis rates during winter months, making it financially rewarding. Plus, the tight-knit healthcare community welcomes travelers warmly during the challenging winter season.
Don’t Miss: Check out our blog on Alaska with practical information, traveler photos and more.
Browse Alaska Healthcare Jobs →
2. February – Montana
Big Sky Country shines in winter. From skiing at world-class resorts to soaking in natural hot springs, Montana offers the perfect work-life balance. The state’s rural healthcare facilities particularly value travelers during winter months when permanent staff recruitment can be challenging. Base yourself in larger cities like Billings or Bozeman for the best combination of urban amenities and outdoor adventure.
Don’t Miss: Yellowstone shines year-round in Montana. In winter, enjoy snowy landscapes, steaming geysers, and smaller crowds. Explore seasonal highlights from the National Park Service.
Browse Montana Healthcare Jobs →
3. March – South Carolina
As spring begins to bloom, the Palmetto State offers mild temperatures and stunning coastal views. Charleston and Myrtle Beach’s healthcare facilities see increased patient volumes as tourists begin arriving. Take advantage of off days exploring historic districts, playing golf, or enjoying the famous Southern hospitality before the summer humidity kicks in.
Don’t Miss: Visit Brookgreen Gardens during their spring bloom – it’s the largest outdoor sculpture garden in America.
Browse South Carolina Healthcare Jobs →
4. April – Tennessee
Spring in Tennessee brings mild temperatures and natural beauty, with wildflowers blooming in the Great Smoky Mountains. From Nashville’s healthcare hub to facilities in Knoxville and Memphis, you’ll find diverse assignment options. April offers perfect weather for exploring the state’s music scene, hiking in the Smokies, or enjoying outdoor festivals. The state’s central location also makes it easy to explore neighboring regions on your days off.
Don’t Miss: Time your visit to catch the Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage in the Smokies – a unique celebration of the region’s incredible biodiversity.
Browse Tennessee Healthcare Jobs →
5. May – Georgia
The Peach State shines in May before the peak summer heat arrives. Georgia offers a perfect blend of city life and outdoor adventure, with Atlanta’s major healthcare systems providing numerous opportunities. The weather is ideal for exploring the North Georgia mountains, coastal islands, or historic Savannah. Between shifts, you can enjoy the state’s famous golf courses, hike the Appalachian Trail’s southern terminus, or explore the burgeoning food scene in Atlanta’s diverse neighborhoods.
Don’t Miss: Visit Providence Canyon State Park, known as Georgia’s “Little Grand Canyon,” during late spring when wildflowers carpet the rim.
Browse Georgia Healthcare Jobs →
6. June – Washington
The Pacific Northwest comes alive in June with comfortable temperatures and minimal rain. Whether you’re in Seattle’s cutting-edge healthcare scene or a smaller community hospital, you’ll have access to stunning outdoor recreation. Explore Mt. Rainier, kayak in Puget Sound, or enjoy the vibrant food scene between shifts.
Don’t Miss: Visit the Hoh Rain Forest in Olympic National Park – June offers the perfect balance of mild weather and mystical moss-covered landscapes.
Browse Washington Healthcare Jobs →
7. July – Colorado
Peak summer in Colorado means perfect conditions for outdoor adventure. The state’s robust healthcare system offers opportunities in both major cities and mountain towns. After work, tackle a 14er, go white water rafting, or explore mountain towns. The dry climate makes even warm days comfortable.
Don’t Miss: Take the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad through the San Juan Mountains.
Browse Colorado Healthcare Jobs →
8. August – Wyoming
Experience the American West at its finest while working in Wyoming’s healthcare facilities. August brings warm days and cool nights, perfect for exploring Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. While assignments might be more limited than in larger states, the experience of working in close-knit communities can be incredibly rewarding.
Bonus Tip: “Total Eclipse, Meteors and Space Probes – A Lot’s Going on Over Wyoming in 2025”
Browse Wyoming Healthcare Jobs →
9. September – New Mexico
The Land of Enchantment offers mild temperatures and stunning fall colors in September. From major medical centers in Albuquerque to smaller facilities in historic Santa Fe, you’ll find diverse professional opportunities. Don’t miss the International Balloon Fiesta while experiencing the unique blend of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo cultures.
Bonus Tip: Visit Bandelier National Monument during golden hour to see the ancient cliff dwellings in their most photogenic light.
Browse New Mexico Healthcare Jobs →
10. October – New England
Fall foliage makes New England irresistible in October. The region’s high concentration of prestigious healthcare facilities means plenty of professional opportunities. Whether you’re in Boston’s medical district or a picturesque Vermont town, you’ll experience world-class healthcare alongside spectacular autumn scenery.
Bonus Tip: Drive the Kancamagus Highway through New Hampshire’s White Mountains for the most spectacular fall foliage views.
Browse New England Healthcare Jobs →
11. November – Texas
The Lone Star State’s mild fall weather makes November an ideal time to visit. Texas offers some of the country’s highest travel rates and a wide variety of facility types. From major medical centers in Houston to community hospitals in Hill Country, you’ll find opportunities matching your professional goals while enjoying outdoor activities year-round.
Bonus Tip: Experience the unique desert landscape of Big Bend National Park before winter temperatures arrive.
Browse Texas Healthcare Jobs →
12. December – Hawaii
Close out your year in paradise. Hawaii’s healthcare facilities frequently need travelers, and December brings perfect weather. Between shifts, enjoy world-class beaches, hiking, and cultural experiences. While housing can be challenging, the experience of spending the holiday season in Hawaii makes it worthwhile.
Bonus Tip: Join a sunrise tour to Haleakala Summit on Maui – it’s cold at the top, but the view above the clouds is unforgettable.
Browse Hawaii Healthcare Jobs →
Conclusion
Choosing the best state for your next travel nurse adventure isn’t just about pay, facility quality, or housing—it’s about finding the perfect fit at the perfect time. Whether you’re following this monthly guide or creating your own path, every state has unique opportunities for career growth and unforgettable experiences. Let this guide inspire your 2025 journey, and if you want to dive deeper into specific opportunities, our recruitment team is just a call away!
Remember to check specific facility requirements, housing availability, and licensing requirements well in advance for each state. Contract rates and availability may vary based on seasonal demand and location.