---
title: Best Travel Nurse Jobs for Summer 2026
description: Explore top travel nurse jobs for summer 2026 in northern states, offering great pay, low living costs, and a better lifestyle. Plan early for best options.
image: https://www.andersgroup.org/hubfs/Best%20Travel%20Nurse%20Jobs%20for%20Summer%202026.png
---

[Travel Nursing](https://www.andersgroup.org/travel-nursing-jobs-blog/tag/travel-nursing)

# Best Travel Nurse Jobs for Summer 2026

[By

- Anders Group, ](https://www.andersgroup.org/travel-nursing-jobs-blog/author/anders-group)  Apr 17, 2026

![Best Travel Nurse Jobs for Summer 2026](https://www.andersgroup.org/hubfs/Best%20Travel%20Nurse%20Jobs%20for%20Summer%202026.png)

If you're thinking about travel nurse jobs for summer 2026, now is exactly when you should start planning. The best contracts, especially in cooler northern destinations, are getting locked in earlier every year.

And here’s what we’re seeing from top travel nurses right now: they’re not just chasing pay—they’re choosing locations that give them better weather, lower living costs, and a better overall experience.

[Browse All Travel Nurse Jobs](https://www.andersgroup.org/travel-nurse-jobs) [Talk to a Recruiter](https://www.andersgroup.org/contact-us)

## Why Travel Nurses Are Heading North for Summer 2026

Summer assignments in northern states are becoming more popular for a few key reasons:

- **Cooler temperatures:** Avoid extreme heat and burnout
- **Seasonal demand:** Hospitals still need coverage during vacation season
- **Better lifestyle:** Outdoor activities, lakes, mountains, and walkable cities
- **Lower competition (in some areas):** Especially outside major metros

**Pro Insight:** Travel nurses who plan early get better housing options, faster offers, and more negotiating power.

## Top Northern Destinations for Travel Nurse Jobs

### Minnesota

Minnesota consistently offers a strong mix of pay, job availability, and lifestyle. Cities like Minneapolis and Duluth provide access to lakes, trails, and a vibrant summer culture.

- Strong demand across ICU, Med-Surg, and Tele
- Balanced pay vs cost of living
- Great for first-time and experienced travelers

[View Minnesota Jobs](https://jobs.andersgroup.org/travel-nurse-jobs-minnesota)

### Wisconsin

Wisconsin is one of the most underrated states for travel nurse jobs. It offers affordable housing and consistent hospital demand without the stress of large cities.

- Lower rent = higher take-home pay
- Easy-to-navigate cities
- Reliable contracts in core specialties

[View Wisconsin Jobs](https://jobs.andersgroup.org/travel-nurse-jobs-wisconsin)

### Michigan

If your goal is saving money while enjoying your assignment, Michigan is a top choice. With access to the Great Lakes and affordable living, it's a favorite among repeat travelers.

- Lower housing costs
- Strong demand in multiple specialties
- Great summer lifestyle

[View Michigan Jobs](https://jobs.andersgroup.org/travel-nurse-jobs-michigan)

### Washington

Washington offers premium contracts with some of the highest pay rates, combined with mild summer weather and incredible scenery.

- Higher-paying contracts
- No state income tax
- Great for experienced travelers

[View Washington Jobs](https://jobs.andersgroup.org/travel-nurse-jobs-washington)

### South Dakota

South Dakota is one of the best-kept secrets for travel nurses looking to maximize earnings.

- Very low cost of living
- Less competition for jobs
- Quick interview and offer timelines

[View South Dakota Jobs](https://jobs.andersgroup.org/travel-nurse-jobs-south-dakota)

## How to Maximize Your Travel Nurse Pay This Summer

Getting a high-paying contract isn’t just about the hourly rate. The most successful travel nurses focus on total compensation and strategy.

- **Choose lower cost-of-living areas** to stretch stipends further
- **Submit early** to access the best contracts
- **Stay flexible** on location and shift
- **Work with one strong recruiter** to move quickly

**Key Tip:** A slightly lower weekly rate in a cheaper city can often leave you with more money in your pocket.

## Housing Tips for Summer Travel Nurse Jobs

Housing can make or break your assignment experience. Here’s how top travelers approach it:

- Start searching early (4–8 weeks before your start date)
- Compare Furnished Finder, Airbnb, and extended stay hotels
- Look for areas just outside major cities for better pricing
- Always verify listings to avoid scams

## Ready to Lock in Your Summer 2026 Assignment?

The best travel nurse jobs won’t last long. Start early, explore your options, and get submitted before demand peaks.

[Search Jobs](https://www.andersgroup.org/travel-nurse-jobs) [Apply Now](https://jobs.andersgroup.org/browse-jobs)

###### Category

- [ Travel Nursing ](https://www.andersgroup.org/travel-nursing-jobs-blog/tag/travel-nursing)
- [ Healthcare Traveler Information ](https://www.andersgroup.org/travel-nursing-jobs-blog/tag/healthcare-traveler-information)

###### Popular Post

- [Best Cities for Travel Nurses in 2026: High Pay and Low Living Costs](https://www.andersgroup.org/travel-nursing-jobs-blog/best-cities-for-travel-nurses-in-2026-high-pay-and-low-living-costs)
- [Hidden Gem Cities for High-Paying Travel Nurse Jobs for 2026](https://www.andersgroup.org/travel-nursing-jobs-blog/hidden-gem-cities-for-high-paying-travel-nurse-jobs-for-2026)
- [Top 10 Travel Nurse Destinations for 2025](https://www.andersgroup.org/travel-nursing-jobs-blog/top-10-travel-nurse-destinations-for-2025)
- [What It’s Really Like to Work as a Travel Nurse in Alaska](https://www.andersgroup.org/travel-nursing-jobs-blog/travel-nurse-jobs-alaska)
- [Should You Stay or Go? Signs It’s Time for a New Travel Nurse Job](https://www.andersgroup.org/travel-nursing-jobs-blog/should-you-stay-or-go-signs-its-time-for-a-new-travel-nurse-job)

###### Subscribe

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