With its stunning scenery, rich history, and Southern charm, Georgia is one of the most popular destinations in the nation for a number of reasons.
But it’s not just a tourist destination: Georgia is among the most coveted places in the country for travel nurses.
Whether you’ve already accepted a post in Savannah or you’re exploring healthcare centers in Atlanta, we’re here with everything you need to know about travel nursing in Georgia. Read on for why it’s a top spot for both green and accomplished travel nurses—and how to make the most of your time in the Peach State.
Understanding the Georgia Healthcare Landscape
Type “travel nurse Georgia” into Google, and you’re bound to be given list after list praising the state’s superior hospitality, world-class cuisine, and electrifying culture. While these traits (as well as others) are a huge part of its appeal—more on this, later—Georgia is also a superb place to pursue professional development in nursing.
It’s home to a handful of renowned healthcare facilities, including:
- Emory University Hospital – Located in the heart of Atlanta—an iconic city that brims with creativity and historical significance—Emory University Hospital is at the forefront of neurology, cardiology, and heart surgery. The prestigious hospital is also known for treating its nurses exceptionally well: It’s a three-time recipient of the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)’s Magnet designation, which recognizes distinctions in the realms of nursing teamwork, professionalism, and patient care.
- Piedmont Atlanta Hospital – Recognized as the leading acute-care healthcare facility in the Atlanta metro by the U.S. News and World Report, Piedmont Atlanta Hospital may be ideal for emergency room nurses who want to refine their skills. Transplant medicine, oncology, sports medicine, women’s health—all are also handled at this century-old hospital.
Georgia’s esteemed healthcare centers aren’t only in Atlanta, either. From rural clinics in its more remote areas to the Piedmont Athens Regional Medical Centers in Athens, there are a host of facilities where you can flex—and strengthen—your skills while enjoying Georgia’s one-of-a-kind lifestyle.
The Benefits of Choosing Georgia for Travel Nursing Assignments
In addition to the potential opportunity to hone your talents at a first-rate healthcare facility, there are a handful of other reasons to zero in on Georgia for your next travel assignment:
- Ideal climate – Whether you’re eager to escape a cold snap in your home state or want to witness the glory of fall, Georgia boasts some of the most moderate weather in the nation. Summer days hover in the 90s, while temps in the winter rarely fall below 50 degrees. And yet, each season in the Peach State is distinct—and each arrives with its own unique pleasures. A word of caution, though: some summer days can be downright muggy, so plan to fulfill an assignment in another season if you’re sensitive to humidity.
- Excellent outdoor adventures – From verdant mountain peaks to immaculate, sandy beaches, Georgia’s natural world (and the recreational activities they inspire) is one of its greatest defining features. Whether you’re an avid cyclist, passionate about hiking, or have always wanted to cross a suspension bridge by foot, you’re bound to find much to love about Georgia’s outdoor environment.
- Manageable cost of living – On a mission to save more of your hard-earned money rather than put it towards rent? Travel nursing in Georgia may be your answer: The Peach State’s cost of living is 10% below the national average. Housing, utilities, food, clothing—all are reasonable and may seem especially so if you’re based in California, New York, or Hawaii (a.k.a., three of the most expensive states in the nation).
Georgia is also a natural fit for travel nurses who are self-described sports buffs—the state is home to the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons and the MBA’s Atlanta Braves.
Licensing and Credentialing: Navigating the Requirements in Georgia
“Travel nursing Atlanta” is a popular search query for dozens of reasons, but chief among them is the fact that it’s a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state—meaning, healthcare organizations accept multi-state licenses.
Other requirements for travel nursing in Georgia include:
- Fingerprints and a background check
- Physical exams
- Vaccine records
- Drug screening
First-class travel nursing recruiting companies like Host Healthcare can help you ensure you have everything in order to jump into your assignment without any bureaucratic snags—and start enjoying all that Georgia has to offer.
Top Cities for Travel Nursing in Georgia
If you’re into small-town vibes or big-city living, Georgia’s got you covered with all sorts of places to explore. A few of the most alluring places for travel nursing in Georgia include:
- Atlanta – Atlanta doesn’t just house the most acclaimed medical facilities in the state: it’s also an amazing city, period. Affectionately known as “The Big Peach,” Georgia’s capital (and signature city) overflows with fascinating historical sights, immersive museums, great shopping, and a bevy of award-winning restaurants. Don’t be daunted by the idea that Atlanta is a concrete jungle, either. From Piedmont Park to the BeltLine, Atlanta possesses abundant green spaces and ample opportunities to spend time outside.
- Savannah – Nestled on the shore of the Savannah River, Savannah has earned its reputation as one of the most stunning cities in the country for a good reason. Immense oak trees and moss-covered architecture are just two examples of its impressive beauty. As one of the oldest cities in the nation, it oozes historical charm but also has one of the most happening arts scenes in the South. Savannah is also noted for two top-tier medical facilities: the St. Joseph’s/Candler Health System and Memorial University Medical Center.
Other choice spots from travel nursing in Georgia include:
- Cumming
- Gainesville
- Athens
- Canton
- Milledgeville
Exploring Georgia’s Culture and Cuisine During Your Assignment
We don’t need to tell you that one of the biggest thrills of travel nursing is the chance to experience a fresh culture, local cuisines, and new adventures.
But Georgia elevates the concept—it abounds with exciting opportunities. During your time off, consider:
- Hiking the Appalachian Trail – You may not have the time to explore all 78 miles of the Appalachian Trail that runs through Georgia, but even a few miles on this legendary path will provide you with striking scenery and encounters with a variety of wildlife.
- Checking out Lookout Mountain – Rising more than 2,000 feet above sea level, Lookout Mountain—the southernmost tip of the Appalachian Plateau—peers out across seven states and boasts majestic gardens, steep bluffs, and even a waterfall.
- Sampling Southern eats – With five Michelin-starred restaurants, Atlanta is the definitive destination for both traditional and innovative Southern cuisine. And yet, delicious fare can be found throughout the state. Whether you’re in the mood for shrimp and grits, peach cobbler, or fried green tomatoes, you’re certain to find venues that will tickle your taste buds.
- Strolling through Atlanta Botanical Gardens – Come March, Georgia springs alive with flowers ranging from tulips to daffodils. Atlanta Botanical Gardens is one of the most optimal spots to revel in these and other blossoms. The thirty-acre site booms with roses, conifers, herbs, and orchids.
Housing Options: Finding Accommodations for Your Assignment
Here’s another reason to Google “travel nursing in Georgia.” Housing in The Peach State is 23% lower than the national average.
Translation? You may be able to score a sweet spot for nearly a quarter less than other parts of the country.
Plus, if you partner with an agency like Host Healthcare, you’ll receive personalized housing assistance and support. Just be sure to consider your commute when you make your decision. The less time you spend on the road, the more time you’ll have to relish Georgia’s distinctive culture.
Health and Wellness Resources for Travel Nurses in Georgia
There’s truth in the cliche that you must put on your oxygen mask first—and few professionals know this better than travel nurses. Self-care is imperative for all professionals, but it takes on next-level importance when you’re traveling as a nurse. With this in mind:
- Explore your facility’s (and agency’s) wellness options – Most healthcare organizations offer health and wellness resources, whether that’s discounted gym memberships or group counseling. Not to mention, Host Healthcare provides its nurses with day-one benefits so that you never have to fear being away from your home base without coverage.
- Prioritize the essentials – Being on assignment may naturally push the basics of sound health—sufficient sleep, adequate exercise, solid nutrition—to the wayside. Nevertheless, you should always make a concerted effort to treat yourself well by making time for these essentials. You’ll have more confidence and competence inside and outside of your workplace.
Savor Georgia’s Magic with Host Healthcare
Between its mesmerizing vistas and outstanding medical facilities, Georgia has plenty to offer travel nurses—especially those who want to boost their professional development while experiencing the true meaning of Southern hospitality.
If that sounds like you, Host Healthcare may be your golden ticket to travel nursing in Georgia. Our award-winning staffing agency pairs qualified nurses like you with diligent recruiters who carefully assess your wants and needs to find you leading placements throughout the country. Because we have exclusive access to thousands of jobs in every state, you’re sure to find your ideal position. Plus, we also offer housing assistance, day-1 benefits, 24/7 support, and more.
Embrace life as a travel nurse in Georgia and apply to Host Healthcare today.
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“Healthcare.” Savannah Chamber, 27 Feb. 2023, www.savannahchamber.com/economic-development/healthcare/. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.
Jividen, Sarah. “Travel Nursing in Georgia: Top Paying Specialties & Cities 2023.” Travel Nursing, Sarah Jividen BSN, RN, 16 June 2023, www.travelnursing.org/travel-nursing-in-georgia-top-paying-specialties-cities/. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.
“Appalachian Trail in Georgia.” Atlanta Trails, 11 Nov. 2022, www.atlantatrails.com/georgia-appalachian-trail/. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.
Lookout Mountain – New Georgia Encyclopedia, www.georgiaencyclopedia.org/articles/counties-cities-neighborhoods/lookout-mountain. Accessed 20 Mar. 2024.
Franklin, Jennifer Bradley. “This Southern U.S. City Now Has Michelin-Star Restaurants for the First Time.” Travel + Leisure, Travel + Leisure, 2 Nov. 2023, www.travelandleisure.com/atlanta-georgia-first-ever-michelin-guide-8386464l. Accessed 20 Mar. 2024.
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Registered Nurse
Years of Experience: 10
Specialties: PreOp & ICU: Medical/Surgical, Burn & Medical/COVID
Hannah stated her nursing career 10 years ago, going straight to the ICU as a new grad. She spent 6 years primarily in Medical/Surgical ICU before traveling with Host Healthcare from Jan 2020 – July 2021. During her time as a travel nurse, she worked in the Burn ICU and Medical/COVID ICU. She has since spent over 2 years in PreOp before recently stepping away from bedside.