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Phoenix, Arizona | City Guide for Travel Healthcare Pros
- noordinarypath
- Apr 3
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 24
John and I fell in love with the Phoenix Metro area (which is VERY widespread). Below is some brief information about the city we fell in love with and some videos that we have shared about things to do and places to stay below.
Welcome to the Valley of the Sun! Phoenix offers year-round sunshine, stunning desert landscapes, and top-rated medical centers. Whether you love hiking saguaro-dotted trails, sampling Southwest cuisine, or exploring nearby weekend getaways, Phoenix is a dream base for travel nurses. 🌞🌵🩺
💰 Cost of Living
Phoenix remains more affordable than many major metros, especially in housing and groceries, but prices are climbing.
Cost of Living Index: 103 (just above the national average)
Average 1BR Rent: $1,200–$1,600/month depending on the area
Utilities: Around $200/month — higher in summer due to AC use
Gas: Typically hovers near the national average
No state tax on groceries or prescription medications
🌤️ Weather by Month
🛏️ Furnished Housing Options
1BR Casita Near Banner University – Furnished Finder
Quiet guesthouse with private entrance, kitchenette, washer/dryer, and shaded patio — close to hospitals and hiking trails.
2BR Condo in Midtown – Furnished Finder
Stylish space in a walkable neighborhood with modern amenities, pet-friendly, and near local shops and dining.
Monthly Airbnb – Southwest Studio Retreat
Fully equipped and centrally located — includes high-speed WiFi, smart TV, and parking.
🏨 Extended Stay Hotels
Extended Stay America – Phoenix Midtown
Great location near major hospitals, full kitchens, free Wi-Fi, and pet-friendly.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott – Phoenix Airport
Spacious suites with kitchens, airport shuttle, breakfast included — ideal for shorter commutes.
Homewood Suites – Phoenix Biltmore
Upscale extended-stay hotel with evening socials, grocery service, and pool — near dining and shopping.
🚐 RV Parks and Campgrounds
We've stayed in many places around the metro. This blog post goes into more detail, including a list of parks, especially for those under age 55.
🎉 Things to Do in Phoenix - These are only a few - the list is massive!
South Mountain Park – One of the largest city parks in the U.S. with scenic hiking trails
Desert Botanical Garden – Cactus blooms and desert education
Roosevelt Row – Art walks, murals, food trucks, and local markets
Old Town Scottsdale – Great shopping, food, and nightlife
Professional Sports – Catch the Suns, Diamondbacks, or Cardinals
🧳 Nearby Weekend Trips
Sedona (~2 hrs): Red rocks, hiking, vortexes, and spa weekends
Flagstaff (~2.5 hrs): Mountain vibes, skiing in winter, and Route 66 charm
Tucson (~1.5 hrs): Southwest culture, hiking, and Saguaro National Park
Prescott (~2 hrs): Small-town feel with beautiful lakes and pine forests
⏳ Summary
Phoenix is a desert gem that combines big-city opportunity with outdoor serenity. From respected healthcare systems to sunset hikes and brunch on the patio, this sunny destination offers a fantastic experience for travel nurses.
✅ Top facilities like Banner, Dignity Health, and Phoenix Children's
✅ Gorgeous winters and tons of sunshine
✅ Great housing for all lifestyles: apartments, hotels, or RV parks
✅ Perfect home base for weekend getaways
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.
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