Finding housing is one of the biggest decisions travel healthcare professionals make before starting a new assignment. During your assignment, your housing becomes your home while you’re working in a new city.

Whether you’re about to become a first-time traveler or you are an experienced travel healthcare professional, finding a short-term stay that fits your budget, schedule, and lifestyle will make your assignment much more comfortable.

Here are a few things to consider when searching for travel healthcare housing.

1. Start Your Search Early

Once you finalize where your assignment will be, start looking at housing options as soon as possible. Ideal neighborhoods and furnished short-term rentals can fill quickly, especially in large cities or areas with high demand for healthcare professionals.

Starting as early as you are able to will give you more time to compare prices, locations, amenities, and lease terms instead of settling for the first available option.

2. Consider Your Commute

The last thing you want in your new town is a long commute. Look for housing within a reasonable distance of your healthcare facility and consider your expected work schedule. If you’ll be working long shifts, a shorter commute can give you more time to rest and enjoy your days off.

Tip: before booking, check the actual travel time during the hours you’ll typically be commuting, not just the distance.

3. Know Your Budget

Housing costs can vary significantly depending on the city, neighborhood, length of stay, and what amenities are included.

Before choosing a rental, consider your overall assignment budget and factor in expenses such as:

• Monthly rent
• Utilities
• Parking
• Internet
• Pet fees
• Security deposits
• Transportation costs

A slightly less expensive rental may not be the better deal if it comes with additional fees or requires expensive parking or transportation.

4. Look for Flexible Lease Options

Look for short-term or furnished housing options that align with the length of your assignment. Flexible lease terms can also be helpful if you may consider extending your assignment.

Always read the lease carefully before signing so you understand the cancellation policy, deposit requirements, and what happens if your assignment dates change.

5. Decide Which Amenities Matter Most

Think about what will make your temporary home feel the most comfortable.

Amenities you may want to prioritize:

• Furnished living spaces
• In-unit laundry
• Reliable Wi-Fi
• Parking
• A full kitchen
• Pet-friendly accommodations
• Access to public transportation
• A quiet or residential neighborhood

These will vary largely based on personal preference. Focus on the features that will make the biggest difference during your assignment.

6. Research the Neighborhood

The right housing isn’t just about the property. The surrounding neighborhood matters, too.

Before booking, research nearby grocery stores, restaurants, recreation, gyms, parks, and other places you may use regularly. If you’re traveling to an unfamiliar city, look into the area during both daytime and nighttime hours.

You can also ask your TactStaff recruiter or use online forums to ask other travel healthcare professionals about neighborhoods they recommend.

7. Be Careful When Booking Online

Online housing platforms can make finding short-term housing easier, but it’s important to do your research before sending money or signing an agreement.

Potential red flags could include a listing that is unusually inexpensive, requests for payment outside a trusted platform, or has a landlord who refuses to provide additional information about the property.

Whenever possible, verify the property, read reviews, and make sure you understand exactly what is included in the rental price.

Find a Short-Term Stay That Works for You

The right travel healthcare housing should give you a comfortable place to recharge between shifts without creating unnecessary stress or expenses.

Take the time to compare your options, consider your commute and budget, and choose a location that fits your lifestyle. And if you’re unsure where to start, your TactStaff recruiter can be a helpful resource as you prepare for your next assignment.

Ready to explore your next travel healthcare opportunity? Check out our available jobs, connect with a TactStaff recruiter and start planning your next assignment.