Travel Nurse Jobs in Hawaii: Pay, Housing & What to know

Travel Nurse Jobs in Hawaii are some of the most sought-after assignments in the country. From tropical beaches and year-round warm weather to unique clinical experiences, Hawaii attracts travel nurses looking for both professional growth and lifestyle balance. However, working as a travel nurse in Hawaii comes with important considerations—especially around pay, housing, and cost of living.

This guide breaks down what travel nurses should know before accepting an assignment in Hawaii.

Why Travel Nurse Jobs in Hawaii Are So Popular

Hawaii consistently ranks as a top destination for travel nurses due to its:

• World-class natural scenery and outdoor lifestyle
• Year-round demand for healthcare professionals
• Diverse patient populations and unique care settings
• Opportunity to work in both urban hospitals and rural facilities

Because demand is high and openings can be competitive, preparation is key when pursuing travel nurse jobs in Hawaii.

Travel Nurse Pay in Hawaii

Pay for travel nurse jobs in Hawaii can vary widely based on specialty, facility type, and island location.

Key pay factors include:

• Nursing specialty (ICU, ER, OR, and L&D are often in highest demand)
• Island location (Oahu vs. Maui, Kauai, or the Big Island)
• Shift type and contract length
• Local staffing shortages

While base pay may appear comparable or slightly lower than some mainland crisis assignments, many travel nurses find the experience itself to be a major part of the value.

Housing for Travel Nurses in Hawaii

Housing is one of the most important considerations for travel nurse jobs in Hawaii. Due to limited inventory and high demand, housing costs are significantly higher than in most mainland states.

Common housing options include:

• Short-term furnished rentals
• Extended-stay hotels
• Private rooms or ohana units
• Shared housing with other travel healthcare professionals

Many travel nurses begin their housing search early and remain flexible on location to secure the best option.

Cost of Living: What to Expect

Hawaii has one of the highest costs of living in the United States. Travel nurses should budget carefully for:

• Groceries and dining
• Transportation and gas
• Utilities and internet
• Island-to-island travel

Understanding these expenses ahead of time helps travel nurses set realistic expectations and avoid surprises during their assignment.

Licensing Requirements for Travel Nurse Jobs in Hawaii

Hawaii is not a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state, which means travel nurses must obtain a Hawaii state nursing license before starting an assignment.

Licensing timelines can take several weeks, so it’s important to:

• Apply early
• Ensure all documentation is complete
• Account for processing time when planning start dates

What It’s Like Working as a Travel Nurse in Hawaii

Healthcare facilities in Hawaii often emphasize teamwork, cultural respect, and community-based care. Travel nurses may experience:

• Smaller care teams in rural or island settings
• Broader scopes of responsibility
• Strong emphasis on patient-centered care
• A slower pace compared to large mainland hospitals

Flexibility, adaptability, and cultural awareness go a long way in making a Hawaii assignment successful.

Is a Travel Nurse Job in Hawaii Worth It?

For many nurses, the answer is yes—especially those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience. While housing and living costs are higher, travel nurse jobs in Hawaii offer unmatched lifestyle benefits, professional growth, and the chance to work in a truly unique healthcare environment.

Travel nurses who plan ahead, budget carefully, and stay flexible tend to have the most rewarding experiences.

Final Thoughts

Travel Nurse Jobs in Hawaii combine career opportunity with an unforgettable destination. By understanding pay expectations, housing challenges, licensing requirements, and cost of living, travel nurses can make informed decisions and maximize the value of their assignment.

If Hawaii is on your travel nursing bucket list, preparation is the key to turning that dream assignment into a successful reality.