Hidden Gem Cities for High-Paying Travel Nurse Jobs for 2026

If your 2026 plan includes chasing higher pay, less competition, and better days off, consider stepping off the major-market treadmill. These underrated cities are offering excellent travel nurse jobs — competitive pay, lower living costs, and lifestyle perks that make every assignment feel like a mini adventure.

Why choose hidden gem cities for Travel Nurse Jobs in 2026?

As traditional hotspots become saturated, many hospitals in smaller markets are increasing pay and bonuses to attract skilled nurses. Choosing a lesser-known destination can mean:

• Higher relative pay packages and better stipends
• Lower housing and living costs, improving overall take-home pay
• Tighter-knit teams and more meaningful clinical exposure
• Better access to outdoor recreation, shorter commutes, and quality of life

Hidden gem cities to consider for Travel Nurse Jobs (and why they pay well)

Boise, Idaho — Big pay with small-city living

Boise’s hospitals are expanding services to keep up with regional growth, which means competitive travel nurse contracts across specialties (ICU, med-surg, ER). Expect lower rent than coastal markets and quick access to hiking, river floats, and an active downtown scene.

Search Travel Nurse Jobs in Idaho

https://jobs.andersgroup.org/travel-nurse-jobs?industry=Registered%20Nurse&

Greenville, South Carolina — Growing systems, steady demand

Greenville blends modern hospitals with Southern affordability. Regional expansions create demand for travel RNs in perioperative, ICU, and med-surg areas — often with attractive stipends and extension potential.

Search Travel Nurse Jobs in South Carolina

Albuquerque, New Mexico — Culture, sun, and strong stipends

Desert scenery, a lower cost of living, and hospitals that compete for talent make Albuquerque a smart pick. Travel nurses often report robust per-diems and plentiful specialty openings.

Search Travel Nurse Jobs in New Mexico

Fargo, North Dakota — Top Midwest pay opportunities

Fargo is a surprising high-pay market for critical care, ER, and step-down specialties. Strong hospital systems and lower housing costs mean more saved income at the end of your contract.

Search Travel Nurse Jobs in North Dakota

Spokane, Washington — PNW lifestyle without the Seattle rent

Spokane delivers Pacific Northwest scenery, lakes, and ski resorts while offering competitive pay packages that can rival coastal markets — a great compromise for outdoorsy nurses.

Search Travel Nurse Jobs in Washington

Des Moines, Iowa — Stability, safety, and solid contracts

Des Moines offers consistent openings and welcoming teams. Contracts here can be extended and repeated — ideal if you want long-term relationships and reliable scheduling.

Search Travel Nurse Jobs in Iowa

Reno, Nevada — Western pay with Lake Tahoe on your days off

Reno’s proximity to outdoor destinations plus competitive regional pay makes it attractive for travel nurses who want adventure between shifts — great for winter and summer assignments alike.

Search Travel Nurse Jobs in Nevada

How to choose the right hidden gem Travel Nurse Job for 2026

1. Match specialty demand: Look for markets hiring your skill set — ICU, ER, labor and delivery, etc.
2. Compare total compensation: Don’t just look at hourly pay — include stipends, housing, and travel reimbursements.
3. Factor in cost of living: A slightly lower hourly rate can outperform big-city offers when rent and food are cheaper.
4. Check extension potential: Smaller hospitals often want to keep good travel nurses on longer, which can mean more guaranteed hours and bonuses.
5. Consider lifestyle fit: If you value outdoor time, proximity to nature may outweigh a marginal pay difference.

Quick checklist: Negotiating the best Travel Nurse Job offer

• Ask for a full compensation breakdown (hourly, stipend, benefits, bonuses).
• Confirm housing options and whether the agency provides or reimburses housing.
• Clarify guaranteed hours, call expectations, and orientation pay.
• Check state licensure requirements and expedite any needed compact or state RN licenses.

Ready to explore high-paying travel nurse jobs in these hidden gem cities? Anders Group lists up-to-date openings across all specialties — search assignments and apply directly to see exact pay packages and start dates.

Find Travel Nurse Jobs on the Anders Group Job Board

Need help picking a market? Contact an Anders Group recruiter for market-specific pay trends and housing support.

Note: Pay, demand, and stipends change by season and specialty. Always confirm the full compensation package for any travel nurse job offer.