Start Planning Your Next Travel Physical Therapy Assignment for 2027: 11 States to Put on Your List

A new year brings new opportunities, and if you’re a physical therapist considering your next travel assignment, now is a great time to start planning for 2027!

Whether you’re looking to explore a new part of the country, gain experience in a different clinical setting, discover a new city, or find an assignment that fits your lifestyle, travel physical therapy offers opportunities to grow your career while experiencing everything the country has to offer.

From the sunny beaches of Florida to the mountain views of Colorado and the Pacific Northwest scenery of Washington, there are plenty of destinations worth considering for your next assignment.

At Anders Group, we understand that finding the right assignment is about more than just finding an open position. It’s about finding the right location, facility, schedule, compensation, and support along the way.

If you’re thinking about making a move in 2027, here are 11 states to consider for your next travel physical therapy assignment.

Why Start Planning Your 2027 Travel PT Assignment Now?

Planning ahead can give you more time to explore destinations, discuss your preferences with a recruiter, prepare for licensing requirements, and determine what matters most in your next assignment.

Before beginning your next search, consider:

• Your ideal location: Do you want to experience a major city, enjoy outdoor adventures, or live somewhere near the beach?
• Your clinical goals: Are you interested in gaining experience in acute care, outpatient therapy, rehabilitation, or another clinical setting?
• Your schedule: Think about your preferred assignment length, start date, and work schedule.
• Your financial goals: Consider pay packages, housing options, travel expenses, and the overall cost of living.
• Your personal priorities: Think about proximity to family, weekend activities, weather, and the lifestyle you want outside of work.

Having a general idea of what you’re looking for makes it easier for your recruiter to help identify opportunities that align with your goals.

11 States to Consider for Your Next Travel Physical Therapy Assignment in 2027

1. California: Combine Career Opportunities With Coastal Living

California offers an incredible variety of experiences for travel physical therapists. From the beaches of Southern California to the outdoor recreation of Northern California, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your time outside of work.

Explore destinations such as San Diego, Los Angeles, Sacramento, and San Francisco. Whether you enjoy hiking, exploring coastal communities, visiting national parks, or experiencing city life, California offers something for almost every lifestyle.

Why consider California?

• Diverse communities and healthcare environments.
• Beaches, mountains, and outdoor recreation.
• Major metropolitan areas and smaller communities.
• Opportunities to explore different parts of the state between assignments.

Explore Travel Physical Therapist Jobs in California →

2. Colorado: Make Outdoor Adventure Part of Your Lifestyle

If you love the outdoors, Colorado deserves a spot on your 2027 travel assignment list. Known for its beautiful mountains, hiking trails, skiing, and active lifestyle, Colorado is a great destination for physical therapists who enjoy spending their free time exploring.

Consider cities such as Denver, Colorado Springs, Fort Collins, and surrounding communities.

Why consider Colorado?

• Access to hiking, skiing, and outdoor activities.
• Beautiful mountain scenery.
• Active communities and a variety of lifestyle options.
• Opportunities to experience both city and mountain living.

Explore Travel Physical Therapist Jobs in Colorado →

3. Florida: Enjoy Sunshine and Coastal Communities

Looking for warmer weather and plenty of sunshine? Florida is a popular destination for travelers who enjoy beaches, outdoor activities, and year-round opportunities to explore.

From Tampa and Orlando to Jacksonville and Miami, Florida offers a range of communities and experiences. You can spend your weekends enjoying the Gulf Coast, visiting local attractions, or relaxing along the Atlantic shoreline.

Why consider Florida?

• Warm weather and beautiful beaches.
• Coastal cities and growing communities.
• Outdoor recreation throughout the year.
• A variety of destinations and lifestyles.

Explore Travel Physical Therapist Jobs in Florida →

4. Georgia: Experience Southern Charm and City Life

Georgia offers a combination of Southern hospitality, vibrant cities, and beautiful outdoor destinations. Atlanta is a major metropolitan destination with restaurants, entertainment, sports, and cultural attractions.

You can also explore Savannah’s historic charm, enjoy the mountains in North Georgia, or discover smaller communities throughout the state.

Why consider Georgia?

• A mix of metropolitan and smaller-town communities.
• Southern food, culture, and hospitality.
• Access to parks, mountains, and coastal destinations.
• Opportunities to explore a variety of lifestyles.

Explore Travel Physical Therapist Jobs in Georgia →

5. Illinois: Discover More Than Just Chicago

Illinois offers more than the excitement of Chicago. While the city provides world-class restaurants, museums, entertainment, and cultural experiences, the state also has smaller communities that offer a different pace of life.

For physical therapists who enjoy city living, Chicago is an exciting destination. Those looking for something quieter may enjoy exploring communities throughout central and southern Illinois.

Why consider Illinois?

• Access to a major metropolitan area.
• Diverse dining, entertainment, and cultural experiences.
• Opportunities to explore smaller communities.
• Four distinct seasons.

Explore Travel Physical Therapist Jobs in Illinois →

6. Massachusetts: Combine History, Culture, and New Experiences

Massachusetts is an excellent option for physical therapists who enjoy history, walkable communities, and New England charm.

Boston offers a mix of historic landmarks, professional sports, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Beyond the city, you can explore Cape Cod, coastal communities, and charming New England towns.

Why consider Massachusetts?

• Rich history and cultural attractions.
• Walkable cities and communities.
• Access to coastal destinations.
• Opportunities to explore other New England states.

Explore Travel Physical Therapist Jobs in Massachusetts →

7. Pennsylvania: Find a Mix of City Life and Scenic Getaways

Pennsylvania offers a diverse mix of urban experiences, historic destinations, and outdoor recreation. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh provide major-city amenities, while smaller communities offer access to beautiful parks, countryside, and historic towns.

It’s also a great location for travelers who want to explore nearby states during their time off.

Why consider Pennsylvania?

• Major metropolitan destinations.
• Historic towns and cultural attractions.
• Outdoor recreation and scenic countryside.
• Convenient access to other East Coast destinations.

Explore Travel Physical Therapist Jobs in Pennsylvania →

8. Texas: Explore Big Cities and Wide-Open Spaces

Everything is bigger in Texas, including the variety of experiences available to travel physical therapists. From Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston to Austin and San Antonio, Texas offers diverse communities, entertainment, food, and outdoor activities.

Whether you enjoy live music, professional sports, great restaurants, or exploring new cities, Texas has plenty to offer.

Why consider Texas?

• Large metropolitan areas and diverse communities.
• A variety of entertainment and dining options.
• Warm weather in many parts of the state.
• Opportunities to explore different regions and communities.

Explore Travel Physical Therapist Jobs in Texas →

9. Ohio: Discover Affordable Living and Welcoming Communities

Ohio is worth considering if you’re looking for a combination of city amenities, welcoming communities, and convenient travel opportunities.

Cities such as Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati each offer their own personality, from professional sports and entertainment to restaurants, parks, and cultural attractions.

Why consider Ohio?

• A variety of city and suburban environments.
• Parks, recreation, and cultural attractions.
• Access to the Great Lakes region.
• Opportunities to explore the Midwest.

Explore Travel Physical Therapist Jobs in Ohio →

10. Washington: Experience the Pacific Northwest

For physical therapists who love scenic landscapes and outdoor adventures, Washington is a destination worth exploring.

Seattle offers city life, waterfront attractions, restaurants, and cultural experiences. Outside the city, you can discover mountains, forests, lakes, and beautiful coastal destinations.

Why consider Washington?

• Incredible mountain and coastal scenery.
• Access to hiking, camping, and outdoor recreation.
• Vibrant cities and unique communities.
• Opportunities to explore the Pacific Northwest.

Explore Travel Physical Therapist Jobs in Washington →

11. Virginia: Explore History, Mountains, and Coastal Communities

Virginia is another great destination to consider when planning your 2027 travel physical therapy assignment. From the history and attractions of Richmond and Williamsburg to the coastal communities and scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, Virginia offers a little bit of everything.

Its location also makes it convenient for exploring Washington, D.C., Maryland, North Carolina, and other East Coast destinations.

Why consider Virginia?

• Historic towns and cultural attractions.
• Beautiful mountains and coastal communities.
• Access to major East Coast destinations.
• A mix of urban, suburban, and smaller communities.

Explore Travel Physical Therapist Jobs in Virginia →

Tips for Getting Ready for Your Next Travel PT Assignment

Once you have a few destinations in mind, it’s time to start preparing. A little planning can make your next transition much easier.

1. Start the Conversation With Your Recruiter

You don’t need to have every detail figured out before reaching out. Share your preferred locations, ideal start date, clinical interests, and what you’re hoping to get out of your next assignment.

2. Review Your State Licensing Requirements

Physical therapy licensing requirements vary by state. If you’re considering a new destination, research the licensing process early and discuss timelines and requirements with your recruiter.

3. Update Your Resume and Credentials

Make sure your resume reflects your most recent experience. Review your licenses, certifications, references, and other required credentials so you’re ready when the right opportunity becomes available.

4. Think About Housing and Travel

Consider where you want to live, how you’ll get to work, and what your housing budget looks like. Researching these details early can help you make a more informed decision.

5. Stay Flexible

Sometimes the best assignment is in a destination you hadn’t originally considered. Staying open to different locations, facilities, and start dates may give you more opportunities to find the right fit.

Find Your Next Travel Physical Therapy Assignment With Anders Group

Your next assignment should be about more than just your next paycheck. It’s an opportunity to grow professionally, experience somewhere new, meet new people, and create memories along the way.

At Anders Group, we believe relationships come first. Our recruiters work with you to understand your goals, preferences, and career plans so they can help you find opportunities that make sense for you.

Whether you’re ready to head to California, explore Colorado, enjoy the sunshine in Florida, or discover somewhere completely new, we’re here to help you plan your next move.

Ready to start planning your 2027 travel physical therapy assignment?

Explore our Physical Therapist Travel Jobs or connect with an Anders Group recruiter today.

Your next adventure could be just around the corner!

Anders Group — Relationships First.