Travel nursing offers an incredible opportunity to explore new places while earning competitive pay. However, the key to maximizing your earnings isn’t always choosing the highest-paying contt, it’s choosing locations where travel nurse pay is strong and the cost of living is lower.
In 2026, many travel nurses are strategically choosing assignments in cities where housing, transportation, and daily expenses are more affordable. This approach can significantly increase take-home income while still offering exciting travel opportunities.
If you're searching for your next assignment, explore the latest travel nurse jobs available at Anders Group, a trusted healthcare staffing agency connecting nurses with hospitals nationwide.
Travel nurse compensation packages often include housing stipends, tax-advantaged per diems, and competitive hourly rates. However, if rent and everyday expenses are extremely high, much of that income can disappear quickly.
Choosing a city with lower housing costs and reasonable living expenses allows travel nurses to:
Here are some of the best cities in 2026 where travel nurses can enjoy strong pay combined with a lower cost of living.
Tulsa has become a popular destination for travel nurses looking to maximize income. The city offers affordable housing, a growing healthcare system, and consistent demand for travel nurses.
Why travel nurses choose Tulsa:
With competitive pay and lower living expenses, Tulsa offers an excellent pay-to-cost-of-living ratio.
Travel Nurse Jobs in OklahomaKnoxville offers travel nurses a balance of outdoor adventure and affordable living. Located near the Great Smoky Mountains, it’s an attractive destination for nurses who enjoy hiking and scenic views.
Benefits for travel nurses:
Des Moines is often overlooked, but it offers one of the strongest pay-to-cost-of-living advantages in the Midwest.
Why Des Moines is appealing:
Many travel nurses report being able to save significantly during contracts here.
Travel Nurse Jobs in IowaLittle Rock provides travel nurses with affordable living and steady hospital demand. The city's lower housing costs allow nurses to stretch their stipends further.
Highlights:
Omaha combines a strong healthcare industry with affordable living costs. Several large medical centers create consistent demand for travel nurses.
Why nurses like Omaha:
Wichita is another Midwest city offering strong pay relative to everyday expenses. Housing is significantly cheaper compared to larger metropolitan areas.
Benefits:
Texas remains one of the most popular states for travel nurses, and San Antonio offers a strong combination of competitive pay and moderate living costs.
Why it stands out:
Albuquerque has become increasingly popular among travel nurses thanks to its unique scenery and lower housing costs compared to many western cities.
Reasons nurses consider Albuquerque:
Sioux Falls offers travel nurses excellent financial advantages due to its low cost of living and growing healthcare industry.
Advantages:
Boise has gained popularity among travel nurses who want access to outdoor activities while still enjoying reasonable living costs.
Why Boise is attractive:
If your goal is to maximize savings during your assignment, consider these strategies:
Working with an experienced recruiter can also help you find assignments that offer the best financial opportunities.
The right travel nursing assignment can provide both financial rewards and exciting new experiences. By choosing destinations with strong pay and lower living costs, travel nurses can make the most of every contract.
If you're ready to explore your next opportunity, browse the latest travel nurse job openings at Anders Group and discover assignments available across the United States.
Start your next adventure today with Anders Group.