ICU Travel Nurse Housing How to Find the Best Short Term Rentals
Travel nursing offers healthcare professionals a unique opportunity to work in diverse settings, often in high-demand specialties like the ICU. While the job itself can be incredibly rewarding, one of the biggest challenges many travel nurses face is finding suitable short-term housing. With the right agency, like AMN Healthcare, finding ideal housing on assignment can be a breeze.
Travel Nurse Housing Platforms
There are several platforms specifically designed to cater to the needs of travel nurses. These websites and apps often feature listings with short-term leases and are near major hospitals.
- Furnished Finder - This platform is a favorite among travel healthcare workers. It allows you to connect directly with property owners offering short stays. Furnished Finder features listings that are pre-screened, ensuring safety and suitability for travel nurses.
- Travel Nurse Housing - Similar to Furnished Finder, Travel Nurse Housing provides short-term furnished rental listings specifically for medical professionals. Many listings here are located close to hospitals and medical centers.
- Gypsy Nurse Housing - Gypsy Nurse offers housing resources as part of its wider travel nursing community, including listings and advice.
Traditional Rental Platforms
While these platforms aren’t tailored specifically to travel nurses, they offer a wide range of short-term accommodations.
- Airbnb and Vrbo - These platforms list furnished properties, many of which can be rented for weeks or months at a time. Some hosts even offer discounts for long-term stays.
- Zillow - Though often associated with long-term leases, Zillow also features temporary housing options, especially sublets.
- Agency Support – AMN Healthcare has a dedicated department solely focused on helping travelers with setting up housing. Your recruiter will help you navigate this. Also check out this blog about travel nurse accommodation options.
Hotels and Extended Stays
For ultimate convenience (and often flexible terms), consider extended-stay hotels. Brands like Extended Stay America, Marriott’s Residence Inn, and Homewood Suites by Hilton are excellent options offering amenities like free Wi-Fi, kitchenettes, and often discounts for healthcare professionals.
What to Look for in ICU Travel Nurse Housing
When looking for short-term housing, it’s important to consider factors that will make your temporary home functional, comfortable, and a good fit for your demanding lifestyle.
Proximity to Hospital Assignments
Being close to your workplace not only saves time but also makes those late-night shifts less stressful. Ideally, aim for accommodations within a 15-to 20-minute commute from the hospital.
Furnished vs Unfurnished
Most short-term rentals catering to travel nurses are furnished, which eliminates the hassle of moving large items. Be sure to check the listing for essentials like a bed, couch, and kitchen tools to avoid surprise expenses.
Flexible Lease Agreements
Confirm that the rental terms align with your assignment. Many ICU travel nurse contracts are 13 weeks long, so it’s helpful if the housing lease caters to this time frame.
Essential Amenities
Given the demanding nature of ICU work, your housing should provide an environment where you can recharge. Here are a few features to prioritize.
- Reliable Wi-Fi: For staying connected and unwinding with your favorite shows.
- Laundry Facilities: Whether in-unit or on-site, convenient laundry is a must.
- A Quiet Environment: Look for neighborhoods and properties free of excessive noise to ensure your rest isn’t disrupted.
- Kitchen Access: A functional kitchen can save you money by allowing you to prepare your meals.
Affordability
Striking the right balance between affordability and comfort is key. Many travel placement agencies offer housing stipends, so use these funds wisely to secure a great place within your budget.
Tips for Finding Deals and Saving Money
Short-term housing can get pricey, but with a few smart strategies, you can keep costs under control.
Negotiate with Property Owners
Don’t hesitate to negotiate rental terms. Some landlords, particularly on platforms like Furnished Finder or Airbnb, are open to giving healthcare professionals a discount, especially for longer stays.
Leverage Your Agency Stipend
Most travel nurse contracts include a housing stipend. Know the amount your agency provides and aim to stay within that budget. If you find housing for less than your stipend, you might get to pocket the difference!
Stay Off the Beaten Path
Housing closer to the hospital may be more expensive, so try extending your search to neighborhoods a bit farther out, provided they’re still within a reasonable commute.
Use Rewards Programs
Some extended-stay hotels offer loyalty programs that allow you to earn points for free accommodations over time. If you’re staying with a particular hotel chain consistently, this can save you money in the long run.
Taking the Stress Out of Housing
The life of an ICU travel nurse is already demanding enough without having to worry about where to live. With these practical tips and resources, you’ll be better equipped to find short-term rentals that meet your needs, budget, and lifestyle.
