Finding short-term housing as a travel nurse can feel a bit like online dating — you’re searching for the perfect match, trying to avoid red flags, and hoping what you see online is actually what you’ll get in real life. With housing scams lurking in the shadows, it’s crucial to know how to spot the real deal.
From setting a budget you can confidently stick to, to reading between the lines of lease terms, to having a backup plan, these travel nurse housing tips will help you land a safe, comfortable spot to call home while on assignment.
Travel Nurse Housing Tips:
Travel Nurse Housing Tip #1: Set a clear budget
Before you start scrolling through housing listings, make sure you’re clear on what you can afford each month. In addition to rent, your budget should cover things like utilities, parking, pet fees, and any one-time move-in costs like deposits.
The good news? You may be eligible for a housing stipend that helps cover the cost of your temporary lodging. To ensure you set the right budget, make sure you understand how much you could potentially receive. That way, you can narrow down your housing search, avoid financial surprises, and focus only on options that work for both your wallet and your peace of mind.
Travel Nurse Housing Tip #2: Start your search early
When it comes to finding legit short-term housing as a travel nurse, time is one of your best tools. The earlier you start your search, the more options you’ll have, and you’ll be able to compare locations, prices, and amenities without feeling pressured into making a snap decision.
So, where to start? Tap into housing resources! Reach out to your travel nurse recruiter, lean on fellow travel nurse recommendations, and browse trusted platforms (think Airbnb, Furnished Finder, and corporate housing sites). The more time you have to research and verify, the greater your chances of finding a place that checks every box — safe, comfortable, and ready for move-in when you are.
Travel Nurse Housing Tip #3: Thoroughly read reviews
Reading reviews from previous tenants can be a lifesaver when it comes to avoiding fake or misleading housing listings. Pay close attention to patterns: one glowing review may be nice, but multiple complaints about the same issue are a red flag you shouldn’t ignore.
Other things to consider include the date of the review, whether the stay was verified, and if the reviewer’s situation — such as short-term living or traveling for work — aligns with yours. Taking the time to thoroughly read and analyze reviews can help you separate legit listings from scams.
Travel Nurse Housing Tip #4: Verify photos and listings
Photos online may be helpful to look at, but can also be deceiving — rooms may appear bigger, brighter, or more updated than they are.
To avoid this scenario, ask the landlord or property manager for current, high-res pictures or even a short video walkthrough. If something feels off — like stock photos in the listing, inconsistent details, or vague descriptions — treat it as a warning sign. Cover your back and cross-check the address on multiple platforms, read the fine print, and confirm that’s what advertised matches the actual property.
Travel Nurse Housing Tip #5: Understand lease terms
Short-term rentals can come with unique terms (ex., early termination fees, utility responsibilities, security deposit conditions, etc.) that aren’t always obvious at first glance. Take the time to read every section carefully and clarify anything that’s unclear. Knowing exactly what you’re committing to helps you avoid unexpected charges or disputes down the line.
Travel Nurse Housing Tip #6: Have a backup plan
Even with careful research, things may not always go as planned. That’s why having a backup plan is essential, whether it’s a short-term hotel, an extended-stay rental, or a trusted friend’s recommendation. Knowing your additional housing options ahead of time takes the stress out of last-minute housing emergencies and ensures you have a safe place to stay.
Not only does being prepared give you peace of mind, but it can also help you avoid common housing scams. Watch out for fake listings that ask for payment upfront, landlords who request personal information before verifying the property, and “too good to be true” deals that vanish when you try to confirm them. Having a solid backup plan acts as a safety net, protecting you from these pitfalls.
Finding short-term housing as a travel nurse doesn’t have to be stressful — or risky — if you approach it with a plan. By following these travel nurse housing tips, from setting a clear budget to having a backup plan, you can avoid scams and feel confident in your search. With the right preparation, your temporary home can feel just like that — home — so you can focus on thriving in your assignment.
