Florida is a prime destination for travel nurses thanks to its warm climate, world-class healthcare facilities, and vibrant lifestyle. But when is the best time for travel nurses to head to the Sunshine State, and what should they expect? From seasonal demand to work schedules and tax guidelines, we’ll cover everything travel nurses need to know about embarking on an assignment in Florida in 2025
Are Travel Nurses Needed in Florida?
The short answer is yes! Florida has a high demand for travel nurses year-round, but specific times of the year see even greater need. The state’s large elderly population creates a consistent demand for healthcare services, particularly in areas like long-term care, emergency care, and critical care. During the winter months, often referred to as “snowbird season,” the influx of retirees escaping colder climates further drives up healthcare demand.
Beyond seasonal changes, Florida is home to some of the nation’s top healthcare facilities, including teaching hospitals and trauma centers, which often require additional staff to cover patient surges, traveler flocks, and unexpected needs.
Key industries, like tourism and agriculture, also prompt increases in healthcare staffing. For instance, Florida’s hurricane season (June through November) can lead to a heightened need for emergency room nurses and critical care specialists.
Whether you’re looking for a long-term assignment or a short contract, Florida is an attractive option for travel nurses in 2025.
What Is the Schedule for a Travel Nurse?
Travel nurse schedules can vary depending on the facility and the specific role. Typically, contracts last anywhere from 8 to 13 weeks, though this can be flexible. Most travel nurses work shifts of 36 to 48 hours per week, often split across 12-hour shifts.
These schedules can sometimes include weekends, nights, or holidays, especially for nurses in high-demand departments like emergency or critical care. That said, travel nurses often have more control over their scheduling preferences compared to permanent staff, making it easier to fit assignments into personal plans.
If you’re planning to work in Florida, expect busy but fulfilling shifts. Thanks to the state’s thriving tourist industry and large population, healthcare facilities are bustling hubs of activity.
Do Travel Nurses Get Vacation Days?
Yes, travel nurses can absolutely take vacation days! However, unlike traditional healthcare employment, vacation time is not automatically built into most travel nursing contracts. Instead, if you’d like some downtime between assignments, you’ll need to plan accordingly.
The flexibility of travel nursing is one of its most significant advantages. Most travel nurses will schedule time off between contracts to recharge, explore new places, or spend quality time with family and friends. If you’re working in Florida, that might mean setting aside a week (or more) to enjoy its beaches, theme parks, or state parks.
Contracts may also vary in terms of paid time off (PTO). Some agencies offer PTO as a perk, so be sure to discuss vacation policies with your recruiter during the hiring process.
What Is the 12-Month Rule for Travel Nurses?
The 12-month rule is an essential tax guideline for travel nurses. It states that you cannot work in the exact general location, or “tax home,” for more than 12 months in 24 months while maintaining your eligibility for tax-free stipends.
Why does this matter? Many travel nurses rely on tax-free housing, meals, and per diem stipends as a key benefit of the profession. Working in one area for too long could jeopardize those tax-free advantages.
For travel nurses heading to Florida in 2024, it’s crucial to carefully track your assignments and consult a tax professional to ensure compliance with these guidelines.
Is Travel Nurse Pay Tax-Free?
Travel nurse pay has both taxable and non-taxable components. Your base hourly wage is considered taxable and will be subject to income tax in the state where you work. However, stipends for housing, meals, and incidentals are often tax-free—provided you meet specific criteria, such as maintaining a tax home elsewhere.
It’s important to note that travel nurses must file non-resident tax returns in every state where they’ve worked, including Florida. While the state has no income tax on wage income, you’ll still need to comply with federal tax rules and ensure accurate reporting.
For more guidance, consult a tax professional specializing in travel nursing to maximize your take-home pay and minimize stress during tax season!
Is Florida a Good Place to Work as a Travel Nurse?
Yes, Florida is an ideal destination for travel nurses! The state offers excellent pay rates, diverse healthcare opportunities, and plenty of entertainment when you’re off the clock.
Here’s why you might want to consider Florida for your next assignment:
- Top-Notch Healthcare Facilities: Florida is home to renowned hospitals and trauma centers, providing opportunities to enhance your skills and experience.
- Lively Culture: From sunny beaches to iconic attractions like Disney World, there’s no shortage of things to do and see during your downtime.
- Nurse-Friendly Pay: Travel nurses in Florida often earn competitive pay rates, particularly in high-demand specialties.
If you’re looking for both professional growth and personal adventure, Florida is hard to beat.
What type of nurse is in the most demand in the USA?
Demand for nurses remains high across the United States, and some specialties are particularly sought after. Here’s a list of the most in-demand nursing roles in 2024:
- Nurse Practitioners: Addressing physician shortages, nurse practitioners provide both primary and specialty care.
- Critical Care Nurses: Essential in ICUs and emergency settings.
- Neonatal Nurses: Experts in caring for newborns and premature infants.
- Emergency Room Nurses: Highly skilled in handling acute and emergency care situations.
- Mental Health Nurses: Critical for supporting patients with mental health challenges.
- Long-Term Care Nurses: Meeting growing needs due to the aging population.
Other in-demand specialties include cardiac care, surgical nursing, and home health nursing. The most sought-after nurse roles often depend on regional healthcare needs, but Florida—like much of the U.S.—sees consistent demand in many of these areas.
Plan Your Florida Travel Nurse Adventure
Florida stands out as a prime destination for travel nurses in 2024, offering exciting opportunities, competitive pay rates, and the chance to make a profound impact. Whether you’re chasing sunny days or sharpening your skills in world-class healthcare facilities, Florida has something for everyone.
If you’re a travel nurse ready to map out your next adventure, start planning your trip to Florida now. And remember to keep an eye on demand cycles and tax guidelines to maximize your experience and earnings. The Sunshine State is ready to welcome you with open arms—and endless possibilities!