Top Cities in WA for Travel Nurses (That Aren’t Seattle)
When most people think of Washington State, Seattle instantly comes to mind—the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and coffee on every corner—but for travel nurses and healthcare travelers, the Evergreen State has so much more to offer beyond the Emerald City. From mountain views to river valleys and vibrant local communities, these Washington cities beyond Seattle’s city limits are perfect spots to explore or take your next assignment.
Ready to head to Washington for your next assignment? Check out our available allied health and travel nurse jobs in Washington and apply today!
“Washington has been a beautiful place to work and explore! I feel supported by my unit and my recruiter. I feel honored to have been integrated into such an amazing community and am enjoying every moment of this journey!”
– Bethany G., MedSurg RN, TNAA | TotalMed Traveler
Best Cities in Washington For Travel Nurses (Beyond Seattle)
Tacoma
Located just south of Seattle, Tacoma offers all the charm of the Pacific Northwest without the Seattle crowds and with a slightly lower cost of living. You’ll find incredible views of Mount Rainier, a revitalized, bustling waterfront, and a thriving arts scene anchored by the Museum of Glass and Tacoma Art Museum. The city has plenty of great coffee shops, breweries, restaurants, and nightlife for unwinding after a shift or relaxing on a day off.
Plus, Tacoma is perfectly positioned for weekend adventures. You’re just a short drive from Mt. Rainier, the Olympic Peninsula, and smaller cities like Puyallup, Auburn, and Covington, making it easy to explore South Sound communities or get out into nature for a quick hike or coastal escape.
Don’t miss:
- Point Defiance Park (almost as big as NYC’s Central Park)
- Ruston Way waterfront (keep an eye out for Orca pods)
- The secret bar inside McMenamin’s Elks Temple (you have to look for it!)
- Taking the ferry out to Vashon Island for a quaint island getaway
Yakima
About two hours east of the Cascades from Seattle, the Yakima Valley offers a totally different vibe—more sunshine, open skies, and rolling vineyards. It’s the perfect destination for travel nurses and allied health travelers who love wide-open spaces and a slower-paced routine (with plenty to get up to in their downtime).
Yakima is a great home base for weekend trips to Mount Rainier National Park, for enjoying outdoor recreation just outside your door, and for going on tasting tours at wineries and craft breweries.
Don’t miss:
- Yakima Farmers Market (amazing local produce and goods)
- Cowiche Canyon Trail (great for hiking)
- Sampling local wines and ciders (straight from the source)
- Skiing or snowboarding at White Pass (if you are lucky enough to be here in the winter)
Spokane
Located on the eastern edge of the state, Spokane is the perfect spot for everything travelers love about big cities with small-town friendliness. The Spokane River runs right through downtown, offering scenic trails and riverfront parks to explore between shifts.
Healthcare travelers and travel nurses often find Spokane among their favorite assignment destinations. Skiing, hiking, and outdoor adventures are all minutes away, and the city has many historical districts with great shopping, dining, and nightlife. Plus, with a lower cost of living and less traffic than Seattle, healthcare travelers can save more on their assignment and enjoy everything travelers love about WA state.
Don’t miss:
- Riverfront Park (river views, the historical Looff Carousel, and the iconic Garbage Goat)
- Walking or biking on the Centennial Trail
- Catching a show at The Bing
- Sipping a latte at Atticus Coffee (best in the city!)
Olympia
As Washington’s capital city, Olympia packs a lot into a small footprint. You’ll find waterfront parks, cozy coffee shops, and a community that celebrates sustainability and local art.
Olympia’s laid-back pace and proximity to both Puget Sound and the Olympic Peninsula make it an ideal location for travelers craving balance—work hard during your shifts, then escape into the forests or beaches.
Don’t miss:
- Strolling along Percival Landing or enjoying the view from one of the incredible seafood restaurants
- Visiting the Capitol Building for a historical glimpse into WA history
- Exploring and shopping in Olympia’s walkable downtown
- Weekend drives to Olympic National Park or Ocean Shores
Bellingham
Tucked between the San Juan Islands and the North Cascades, Bellingham is a dream spot for outdoor lovers. It’s known for its hiking trails, waterfront sunsets, and laid-back local vibe.
It’s also home to a strong healthcare community and makes a great base for exploring northern Washington and even venturing into British Columbia (with your passport, of course)—you’re less than a half hour from the border!
Don’t miss:
- Shopping and dining in the Fairhaven Historic District
- Savoring fresh oysters along Chuckanut Drive
- Exploring outdoor recreation all year round in the Mount Baker Ski Area
Vancouver
Right across the Columbia River from Portland, Vancouver, Washington gives you access to all the big-city culture of Portland, minus the Oregon traffic.
Vancouver offers a growing dining scene, riverfront parks, and quick access to both the coast and the Columbia River Gorge.
Don’t miss:
- Strolling through Vancouver Waterfront Park
- A step back into time to a 19th-century fur trading post at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site
- Weekend escapes to Cannon Beach or Mount Hood
Find Your Washington Travel Assignment With TNAA and TotalMed
Whether you’re looking for sunshine, snow-capped peaks, or saltwater views, Washington offers assignments that fit every lifestyle. With diverse healthcare facilities, endless recreation, and charming cities that feel like home, the Evergreen State might just be your next favorite destination.
When you travel with TNAA and TotalMed, you’re traveling with an 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.
Ready to make Washington your next travel healthcare destination? Check out our available allied health and travel nurse jobs in Washington and apply today!
