_edited.png)
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania for Travel Nurses | Housing, Pay, Pros & Cons
- noordinarypath
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is a strong choice for travel nurses who want big-city hospital experience with walkable neighborhoods and rich history. It is especially good for nurses who enjoy urban living and top-tier medical systems, but the higher rent and parking challenges can be a drawback. Hospitals here are fast-paced and academically driven, which can be rewarding but demanding.
🍊 Cost of Living in Philadelphia
Cost of living is slightly above the U.S. average, especially in central neighborhoods
Rent typically ranges from $1,800 to $2,800 per month for a one-bedroom furnished unit
More affordable than NYC or Boston, but pricier than many Midwest cities
Can be a financially solid assignment if you secure a strong pay package or shared housing
Summary: Philadelphia can be worth it financially for travel nurses if housing is planned carefully and your contract includes competitive pay.
🌤️ Weather by Month
Philadelphia experiences all four seasons, so travel nurses should prepare for both humid summers and chilly winters.
Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Description |
Jan | 40°F | 26°F | Cold, occasional snow ❄️ |
Feb | 43°F | 28°F | Chilly, gray days |
Mar | 52°F | 35°F | Early spring, unpredictable 🌦️ |
Apr | 63°F | 44°F | Mild, great for walking 🌸 |
May | 73°F | 54°F | Warm, outdoor season begins |
Jun | 82°F | 64°F | Humid, summer crowds |
Jul | 87°F | 70°F | Hot, humid, AC needed ☀️ |
Aug | 85°F | 69°F | Similar heat, slower pace |
Sep | 78°F | 62°F | Comfortable, great weather 🍂 |
Oct | 67°F | 50°F | Crisp fall, scenic parks |
Nov | 56°F | 40°F | Cooling down, shorter days |
Dec | 45°F | 32°F | Cold, holiday season 🎄 |
🏡 Furnished Housing Options
AKA University City – Modern furnished apartments near major hospitals, includes Wi-Fi, gym, and easy commute.
The Left Bank Apartments – Riverside living with furnished units, parking options, and close access to Center City.
The Franklin Residences – Historic building with furnished studios and one-bedrooms in Center City, walkable to hospitals. https://www.franklinresidences.com
Tip: Look for housing near public transit lines to avoid parking headaches.
🏨 Extended Stay Hotels
Homewood Suites by Hilton Philadelphia Center City – Spacious suites with kitchens and quiet atmosphere, ideal for longer travel nurse stays.
Residence Inn Philadelphia Center City – Reliable extended stay option with full kitchens and easy hospital access.
Staybridge Suites Philadelphia Midtown – Comfortable long-term stay with kitchenettes and a quieter residential feel.
Tip: Ask about travel nurse or corporate rates for discounted long stays.
🚐 RV Parks & Campgrounds
Philadelphia South Clarksboro KOA – Full hookups and monthly stays available, about 20 minutes from downtown hospitals.
Timberlane Campground – Quiet setting with full hookups, about 30 minutes from Philadelphia.
Campus Park & Ride RV Parking – Basic RV parking option closer to the city, useful for short-term stays.
Tip: Confirm monthly availability, full hookups, and Wi-Fi before booking.
🎉 Things to Do
Walk through historic Old City and see the Liberty Bell on a day off
Explore Reading Terminal Market for quick meals between shifts
Jog or bike along the Schuylkill River Trail
Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art and run the famous steps
Check out local neighborhoods like Fishtown for food and nightlife
Spend a relaxing afternoon in Fairmount Park
🧳 Nearby Weekend Trips
New York City, NY, about 2 hours by train or car
Washington, DC, about 2.5 hours, great for quick city escape
Atlantic City, NJ, about 1 hour, beach and casinos
Pocono Mountains, PA, about 2 hours, hiking and nature
Baltimore, MD, about 2 hours, waterfront and food scene
⏳ Summary
Philadelphia is a strong assignment choice for travel nurses who want top hospital experience and city living, but it requires planning for housing and transportation.
✅ Excellent hospital systems and resume-building experience
✅ Walkable city with public transit access
✅ Great mix of history, food, and culture
⚠️ Higher rent and parking challenges require planning
Referral Program
Know someone who would love to take an assignment in Philadelphia? Send them my way!
You’ll earn an $800 referral bonus when they complete their assignment, and they’ll receive an extra $200 just for working with me.
Anyone can refer, friends, coworkers, or family, and there is no limit to how many bonuses you can earn.
Disclosure: The information provided in this guide is what I use to send my travelers and is obtained through ChatGPT, utilizing prompts I frequently use as a travel nurse recruiter. The content is designed to help travelers make informed decisions about potential destinations.
Comments