Considering a travel nursing assignment in California? You’re not alone. California is a popular destination for travel nurses for several reasons. The incredible weather and limitless things to do certainly contribute to California’s desirability, but it’s also a great state from a professional perspective. In fact, according to this study, California is the sixth best state for nurses in 2016.
Let’s take a look at the things you need to consider before travel nursing in California.
What you’re looking for out of your next assignment will play a major role in the area of California you’ll end up in. Is experiencing the California lifestyle what’s most important to you? Or is making the most money possible your biggest factor?
If sunshine, the ocean, beaches, and the “California” lifestyle are what you’re looking for, then only Southern California will do. When considering travel nursing assignments in this area, San Diego and Los Angeles are the two major destinations, and each has its own pros and cons.
If you’re interested in Southern California, it’s important to understand that it isn’t the best place if you want to maximize your paycheck. Pay is generally lower than Northern California and the Central Valley, and living costs are also higher. On the contrary, you aren’t going to experience the weather and lifestyle that cities like San Diego and Los Angeles offer anywhere else.
If putting more money in your pocket is your end goal, you might be more interested in an assignment in Northern California. From Central Valley to Sacramento, Northern California provides quality travel nursing opportunities, higher pay, and lower living costs.
Again, if pocketing more money is important to you, this is the area for you. In addition to higher average pay, Central Valley is also known for offering 48-hour work weeks, allowing nurses to earn more than they would with the more common 36-hour week.
Now that we’ve covered the popular areas for travel nurses in California, let’s look at some of the other important things nurses should know.
California was the first state to establish nurse-to-patient ratios. Since then, many other states have followed California’s lead. According to a study by Health Services Research, California nurses care for one less patient on average than states without legislation and two less patients on average on medical and surgical units.
According to Nurse Salary Guide, California is the highest paying state in the nation by $5 per hour and pays almost $13 higher than the national average. Of course, California’s higher cost of living has to be factored in, but if you choose one of the more affordable areas to live that are mentioned above, you can really benefit from California’s high pay rates.
California is not a compact state, so you’ll need to obtain a licensure. California offers licensure by endorsement, which can be done online or by mail. The estimated time for completion is 10-12 weeks. With LRS Healthcare, you don’t have to worry about the cost of obtaining a state license. We offer licensure reimbursement!
If you’re interested in pursuing a travel nursing job in California, contact LRS Healthcare today. Our friendly recruiters will help you find an opportunity that meets your needs!
And don’t forget to check out other options in some of the highest paying states for travel nurses.