5 Underrated Healthcare Travel Assignment Destinations
Deciding where to go for your next travel healthcare assignment? Think beyond the usual hotspots! While popular states like California, Florida, New York, and Washington attract many travel nurses and healthcare travelers, there are hidden gems across the country offering incredible experiences, lower costs of living, and unique adventures.
Check out these five underrated states, packed with must-see spots, outdoor recreation, and unmatched charm. Discover why they’re worth exploring for your next healthcare travel or travel nurse assignment.
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Hidden Gem Travel Assignment Destinations
South Dakota
South Dakota is a treasure trove of natural beauty and adventure, perfect for healthcare travelers seeking peace and outdoor exploration. The state’s friendly communities and rich history make it an inviting destination.
Travel-Alike States
Montana, Wyoming, Utah, and Colorado.
Must-See Places
- Badlands National Park: Explore otherworldly rock formations and dramatic landscapes.
- Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway: A stunning drive with waterfalls and lush greenery.
- Custer State Park: Famous for its wildlife loop, where you can see bison, elk, and prairie dogs.
- Jewel Cave National Monument: Take a guided tour through the fifth-longest cave in the world and explore stunning calcite crystals.
- Falls Park in Sioux Falls: A serene spot featuring a cascading waterfall in the heart of the city.
Top Outdoor Recreation
- Hiking Black Elk Peak, the highest point in the state.
- Rock climbing the Needles at Custer State Park.
- Kayaking the flatwater of the Missouri River.
Cost of Living
- Approximately 11% lower than the national average.
- Housing is particularly affordable, with a median rent of around $800/month.
- Lower cost of living than Colorado, Utah, or Wyoming while offering similar outdoor appeal.
Did You Know?
South Dakota has more miles of shoreline than Florida—yes, really!
Learn more about what to do while on assignment in South Dakota, or check out our available jobs to secure your next assignment.
Alabama
Alabama offers a blend of rich cultural heritage, southern charm, and stunning natural landscapes. It’s a perfect destination for healthcare travelers who appreciate a slower pace and exploring America’s history.
Travel-Alike States
Florida, Georgia, or Mississippi.
Must-See Places
- Gulf Shores and Orange Beach: White sand beaches and warm waters.
- U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville: A must-see for space enthusiasts.
- Civil Rights Trail in Birmingham: Includes the 16th Street Baptist Church and more.
- Little River Canyon National Preserve: Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East.”
- Mobile’s Mardi Gras: The oldest Mardi Gras celebration in the U.S.
Top Outdoor Recreation
- Hiking in Cheaha State Park, the highest point in Alabama.
- Deep-sea fishing off Dauphin Island.
- Kayaking on the Sipsey River for calm paddling through lush forests.
Cost of Living
- Around 15% lower than the national average, with affordable food, housing, and utilities.
- Lower costs than Florida, Georgia, or Louisiana.
Did You Know?
Alabama is home to the longest natural bridge east of the Rockies, located in Natural Bridge Park.
Check out our available jobs and secure your next assignment in Alabama.
Oklahoma
Known for its welcoming spirit and vast open landscapes, Oklahoma offers healthcare travelers a unique blend of Western charm and modern amenities.
Travel-Alike States
Texas, Arkansas, or Missouri.
Must-See Places
- Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge: Stunning views, hiking, and wildlife.
- Tulsa’s Gathering Place: A 66-acre park with playgrounds, trails, and events.
- Route 66 Attractions: Check out quirky stops like the Blue Whale of Catoosa.
- Lake Murray State Park: Oklahoma’s largest state park, offering crystal-clear water, camping, hiking, and scenic views.
- Beavers Bend State Park: A hidden gem for camping, kayaking, and hiking.
Top Outdoor Recreation
- Hiking Turner Falls Park, featuring waterfalls and caves.
- Bass fishing on Lake Texoma.
- Rock climbing in Quartz Mountain Nature Park—a local favorite.
Cost of Living
- Nearly 15% below the national average, with affordable housing and utilities.
- Cheaper than Texas, Arizona, or Missouri, with similar hospitality and amenities.
Did You Know?
Oklahoma has more man-made lakes than any other state, with over 200 reservoirs perfect for water activities.
Check out our available jobs and secure your next assignment in Oklahoma.
Idaho
Idaho is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering healthcare travelers a balance of tranquility and adventure amid stunning landscapes.
Travel-Alike States
Washington, Montana, and Oregon.
Must-See Places
- Shoshone Falls: Known as the “Niagara of the West,” located in Twin Falls.
- Craters of the Moon National Monument: Explore volcanic landscapes and lava tubes.
- Sawtooth National Recreation Area: Incredible hiking, camping, and fishing.
- Coeur d’Alene Lake: Perfect for boating, paddleboarding, and lakeside relaxation.
- Freak Alley Gallery in Boise: The largest outdoor mural gallery in the Northwest.
Top Outdoor Recreation
- Biking the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, a 72-mile scenic path.
- Skiing in Sun Valley, one of the premier ski resorts in the U.S.
- Fly-fishing the world-famous Henry’s Fork on the Snake River.
Cost of Living
- Around 8% lower than the national average, especially outside Boise.
- Much more affordable than nearby Washington or Oregon.
Did You Know?
Idaho is home to the deepest river gorge in North America—Hell’s Canyon.
Check out our available jobs and secure your next assignment in Idaho.
Vermont
Healthcare travelers seeking scenic beauty, charming towns, and a relaxed pace will find Vermont a delightful assignment destination.
Travel-Alike States
Maine, New Hampshire, or New York.
Must-See Places
- Stowe Mountain Resort: A top-tier ski destination with year-round activities.
- Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour: A must-visit for ice cream fans.
- Lake Champlain: Enjoy sailing, fishing, and breathtaking sunsets.
- Shelburne Farms: Explore this working farm and historic estate.
- Quechee Gorge: Known as the “Grand Canyon of Vermont.”
Top Outdoor Recreation
- Hiking the Long Trail, America’s oldest long-distance trail.
- Skiing at Killington Resort, the “Beast of the East.”
- Cycling the scenic routes of the Green Mountains.
Cost of Living
- Slightly above the national average, but housing outside Burlington is affordable.
- Comparable to Maine or New Hampshire but cheaper than Massachusetts or Connecticut.
Did You Know?
Vermont has no billboards, ensuring uninterrupted scenic views everywhere you travel.
Learn more about what to do while on assignment in Vermont, or check out our available jobs to secure your next assignment.
Travel With TNAA on Your Next Assignment
Ready to explore these hidden gems on your next assignment? Whether you’re drawn to scenic landscapes, cultural experiences, or lower living costs, these five underrated states will surely include everything on your travel bucket list and more!
Plus, when you travel with TNAA, you’re traveling with an award-winning travel nurse agency that has your back every step of the way. Housing, credentialing, benefits, sick leave…we’ve got you covered. All you have to do is pack your bags and decide where you’re going.
Check out our available jobs and start your next adventure today!
