Travel nursing in New Hampshire: 5 Reasons to Explore the Granite State

With its quaint towns, rich history, and natural beauty, New England holds much appeal for locals and visitors alike. Nestled in the heart of this enchanting region is the state of New Hampshire. While you may be familiar with the state’s charm and beauty, you may not realize it’s one of the participating states in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) — making it an attractive destination for travel nurses.

Read on to learn more about travel nursing in New Hampire as well as life and leisure activities in the Granite State.

1. Nurse Licensure Compact Status

One of the major draws for travel nursing in New Hampshire is its status as an NLC state. The NLC is a multistate nursing license that allows nurses to practice across participating state borders without having to apply for a new license each time. The multistate license helps alleviate the cumbersome paperwork and costs involved in relocating, and it allows travel nurses more flexibility in choosing a state that provides the job opportunity, cost of living, and quality of life factors they desire.

2. Robust social, physical, and community health

New Hampshire routinely ranks well above average on quality of life indexes. In 2018, the state ranked in the top quintile (7^th overall, up from 22^nd in 2017) of the Gallup-Sharecare Well-Being Index. The survey evaluated all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia on five elements of well-being, including Purpose, Social, Financial, Community and Physical. Of these factors, New Hampshire ranked 4^th in the nation in Social (having supportive relationships and love in one’s life), 6^th in the nation in Physical (having good health and enough energy to get things done daily), and 8^th in the nation in Community (liking where you live, feeling safe, and having pride in your community).

The state’s largest city, Manchester, secured the 43^rd spot on US News & World Report’s ranking of The 50 Best Places to Live in America for 2019. Manchester, while smaller than most major metropolitan areas, delivers a “strong culture, youthful vibe, and political character.” The report credits the various local universities and colleges for cultivating the city’s young and educated atmosphere.

In addition, Hanover, NH, graced USA Today’s List of America’s 50 Best Cities to Live In. Hanover is the best educated city in the state with 83% of adults holding at least a bachelor’s degree. A smaller city, Hanover residents often walk to work — nearly 40% commute on foot every day.

3. Cost of living and economic opportunity

While cost of living in New Hampshire is higher than the national average, the state’s high median household income (among the highest in the nation) and low tax burden help offset the costs. Notably, there is no state sales tax and New Hampshire is one of seven states without a personal income tax, which can translate to higher take-home pay.

The state also ranked 2^nd in economic opportunity in U.S. News & World Report’s 2019 Best States study, due in large part to the state’s thriving high-technology sector and highly-educated workforce.

4. Healthcare and nursing in the Granite State

Within the Granite State’s tight borders reside just 32 hospitals and healthcare institutions, three of which are high performing in select specialties, procedures and conditions, according to U.S. News & World Report.

The impact of the nationwide nursing shortage is felt profoundly in New Hampshire, especially with respect to elder care. New Hampshire’s population is rapidly aging, and the state ranks among the top three in the country for highest median age. The aging population contributes to elder care needs in the state, as well as an aging nursing workforce.

5. Discover New Hampshire: Lakes, mountains, and towns

For exploration and recreation on days off, New Hampshire offers a wealth of possibilities. The state is dotted with charming towns and vast expanses of wilderness, perfect for sightseeing.

New Hampshire’s picturesque New England towns afford visitors access to museums, restaurants, shops, galleries, and events, such as maple sugaring in the spring and apple picking in the fall. The towns — and the drives between them — are an especially sought-after destination during the area’s spectacular fall foliage season.

For outdoor enthusiasts, New Hampshire’s lakes and mountain regions are veritable playgrounds for outdoor recreation. White Mountain National Forest, home to the region’s highest peak — Mount Washington — is a popular destination for hiking, biking, camping and winter sports. And the Lakes Region, including the state’s largest lake — Lake Winnipesaukee — is an idyllic setting for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water sports.

Include New Hampshire on your list of travel assignment destinations

The are many factors to consider when prioritizing your list of prospective travel nursing assignments. For quality of life, economic opportunity, ease of licensing, and beautiful local travel and leisure, this NLC state could be a strong prospect for your next travel nursing destination.

Interested in learning more about travel nursing? Call us for more information at 800.866.0407 or view today’s job openings.