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Travel Nurse Modern Snowbirds: Why Arizona Is THE Move This Winter
- noordinarypath
- Oct 4
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 4
Your one stop guide for jobs, housing, RV spots, and weekend adventures this winter
I’m a travel nurse recruiter who’s also lived the traveler life with my ICU-nurse husband and our crew. We’ve wintered in Arizona more times than I can count, and every single season reminds me why the Valley practically runs on travelers from October through April: warm, dry days; patio nights; and more things to do than you can possibly fit into a 13-week contract.
This guide puts everything in one place so you can work and actually live well here this winter. You will find current jobs with start dates October through February, quick licensure notes, and a clear snapshot of where locals can and cannot take assignments. I also linked our best city guides, RV and boondocking spots that allow under 55, and easy weekend ideas from Phoenix to Tucson to Sedona, Flagstaff, and Prescott.
A quick reality check. Pay here will not lead the nation, but the cost of living is reasonable and the dividends in sunshine are real. The units I see most often right now are PCU, ICU, Med Tele, and L and D, with some ED as well. If you live in the Phoenix area, read the locals policy section below. I will help you target the systems that accept locals and help you figure out a good strategy.
Scroll, skim, and click what you need. If you want a short list that fits your unit, shift, and dates, send me a note. I am in your corner, and Arizona is ready for you. 🌵☀️
Start Here to become a Modern Snowbird
🔎 Browse current AZ jobs (rolling starts now → Feb): Search over 300 jobs
✍️ Work with/Contact Kristin (Team NOP): Let's Chat!
📨 Get Industry Updates and Market News: Subscribe Here
Phoenix Guides
🎥 Watch the playlist: The Modern Snowbird’s Guide to Phoenix
Only-in-Phoenix picks
Hospital reviews
Tucson Highlights
(Tucson city guide coming soon—bookmark this page; I’ll link it here when it’s live.)
Other AZ Cities to Explore
Flagstaff
Sedona / Verde Valley
Payson/Tonto National Forest
Prescott
Grand Canyon Area
Havasu
Elevation note: Northern AZ = higher elevation. Expect chilly nights and occasional snow days mid-winter—pack layers.
Housing & Extended Stay
Phoenix housing & extended-stay picks (neighborhood notes, monthly ideas)
RV & Boondocking
RV winter tips (quick)
Pleasant days, chilly nights—use a heated hose; keep propane topped.
Stake awnings; the desert can get gusty.
Expect dust; keep filters handy.
Seasonal Things to Do
Hospitals & Local Policies
What is a “local traveler” in Phoenix?
A local traveler is someone who lives within commuting distance and takes an assignment fully taxed (no tax-free stipends for housing/meals). That means:
Your pay is an all-taxable hourly rate (typically $50–$70/hr right now, specialty dependent).
Because it’s fully taxed, both you and the agency pay more in employment taxes. Even if the rate looks similar to non-local offers, your take-home will be smaller than a package with stipends.
Many facilities have local radius rules (e.g., 50 miles). Some don’t take locals at all; others accept locals at the same or adjusted rate.
Recruiter Notes: Phoenix-Metro locals policy (as of Oct 2025)
Banner Health: No AZ travelers (locals not accepted).
Dignity Health: 50-mile radius.
Tenet/Abrazo (Goodyear, Glendale, Scottsdale, Downtown): Locals accepted
Valleywise: Locals accepted at a discounted rate.
Phoenix Children’s: Locals accepted
HonorHealth: Limited agency needs; has an internal travel program.
Mayo Clinic: Locals accepted
Atlas Adventure Perk
Phoenix is the perfect place for an Adventure! At Atlas we offer all new travelers an adventure of their choice up to $400. Our family got to do one when John was traveling and it was an unforgettable experience! We put this perk to work with a hot air balloon ride! 🎈
Other FAQs
How far ahead should I apply?
AZ hospitals often book 4–6 weeks ahead but in snowbird season, many will release start dates for the entire Oct–Apr season in the fall so you can apply early.
Do I need my AZ license first?
No. Most facilities allow submission before a license is in hand. AZ is a compact state and it's also a walk-through state meaning if you don't have a compact license, you can get your AZ license pretty quick. And a bonus? l can reimburse your AZ license once you are placed and start working.
What units are hottest?
There are several specialties available but the ones we see the most often are PCU, ICU, Med-Tele, L&D, and ED. Phoenix Childrens often posts a ton of Peds jobs in early Fall as well.
Ready to Become a Modern Snowbird?
If Arizona is calling, I would love to help you land the right fit and make the most of your season here. Browse what you need above, reach out if you want a short list tailored to your unit and dates, and come enjoy the sunshine and easy living that make winter in this state so special. See you in the desert. 🌵☀️
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