2025 Travel Nurse Job Hotspots: Top States for High Pay, High Demand, and Career Growth

Where should you be looking for your next travel assignment? While there is a need for  travel nurses nationwide, some states are consistently hotter markets than others. Here’s where you’ll likely find the most jobs in 2025:

1. California: The Golden State Still Gleams for Travel Nurses
   
   • Remains a hot spot travel nurse destination thanks to its large population, higher pay, and beautiful weather. 
   • California’s strict nurse-to-patient ratios also contributes to the ongoing demand for travel nurses. 
   • Average Weekly Pay: $2,500 - $3,500 
   • Job Growth projection: 12.9% (2022-2032)
     
     
2. Texas: Everything's Bigger in Texas – Including Nurse Demand
   
   • Demand is booming! Tons of people are moving to the Lone Star State, especially older adults. 
   • We could even see Texas take over California as the #1 state for travel nurses in years to come. 
   • Average weekly pay: $1,800 - $2,800 
   • Job Growth Projection: 14.6% (2022-2032)
     
     
3. New York: Big Apple, Big Nurse Needs
   
   • Big cities means lots of hospitals and lots of patients. This creates a constant need for nurses. 
   • Implementation of new rules about nurse staffing are expected to create even more job openings. 
   • Average weekly pay: $2,300 - $3,300
   • Job Growth Projection: 25.5% (2022-2032)
4. Massachusetts: Healthcare Hub with High Demand
   
   • Massachusetts is packed full of renowned hospitals and specialty centers. 
   • Demand is expected to grow and MA will continue to be a solid state for travel nurse jobs, especially in specialized units. 
   • Average weekly pay: $2,200 - $3,200
   • Job Growth Projection: 8.4% (2022-2032)
     
     
5. Georgia: Growing Population, Growing Needs
   
   • Atlanta’s growth and challenges with healthcare access in rural communities are driving demand. 
   • With travel nurse opportunities in both rural and urban settings, Georgia is a hotspot for travel nurse jobs in 2025. 
   • Average weekly pay: $1,700 - $2,700
   • Job Growth Projection: 15.3% (2022-2032)
     
     
6. Arizona: The Rising Star in Travel Nursing
   
   • The rising star in travel nursing, with a growing retiree population and increase in overall population. 
   • High nurse burnout rates in AZ also contribute to higher demand. 
   • Phoenix and other metropolitan are expected to see high growth in travel nurse jobs.
   • Average weekly pay: $1,900 - $2,900
   • Job Growth Projection: 21.9% (2022-2032) 

‍

Beyond the Top 6:

Other states to keep on your radar with  a high demand for travel nurses include Illinois, Washington, Virginia, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Florida, and North Carolina. Generally, states with large populations, growing healthcare industries, or known nursing shortages are going to be your best bets.

‍

So, we know the states with the highest demand, but what about pay? You want to hit that sweet spot – high demand and good pay. Here’s a look at some of the top states that balance strong demand with competitive pay packages, keeping in mind cost of living and housing options too:

• Texas: Strong demand, solid pay (though not the absolute highest nationally), and a generally lower cost-of-living than coastal states, especially outside of major cities. Texas can offer a good balance.
• Georgia: Good demand, and while pay might not be as high as some states, the cost of living in many parts of Georgia is relatively affordable, potentially making your travel nurse dollars stretch further.
• North Carolina: Not always a state with super high demand, but North Carolina is growing rapidly, has increasing healthcare needs, and offers a cost of living that is appealing to many travel nurses. Worth considering for a good balance.
• Washington State: Consistently ranks among the highest paying states for travel nurses. While the cost of living in Seattle and some coastal areas is high, other parts of Washington are more affordable. If maximizing income is your primary goal and you're okay with a potentially higher cost of living in some areas, Washington is a top contender.

*Cost of Living Index: U.S. average = 100 (Data from Missouri Economic Research and Information Center, 2023)
*Job Growth Projection: 2022-2032 (Data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

‍

The travel nursing market in 2025 is shaping up to be stable and promising. While the pandemic-era boom has leveled off, the demand for travel nurses remains strong. By targeting states where your skills are needed most (and where the paychecks are good!), you can chart a course for a successful and financially rewarding year as a travel RN.

Remember, the best state for you depends on your personal priorities – are you chasing the absolute highest pay, or is a better work-life balance and lower cost of living more important? Do your research, weigh your options, and get ready to embark on your next travel nurse adventure in 2025! The open road – and plenty of nursing opportunities – are calling!

‍

At Advantis Medical Staffing, we take great pride in our commitment to caring for clinicians. We are dedicated to connecting passionate professionals with the best travel jobs available nationwide while providing exceptional service that promotes a trusted partnership for life. It’s no wonder we are ranked as the #1 travel nurse agency by nurses themselves!

If you’re interested in embarking on your travel journey, we are eager to match you with your next dream job. You can work with one of our dedicated Pro Recruiters or express your interest in specific jobs directly on our job pages. Start your next adventure by searching here for RN travel nurse jobs.