When Are the Best Seasons to Rent Your Place to Traveling Nurses?

Travel nurses play a crucial role in filling staffing gaps at hospitals and healthcare facilities across the country. For property owners, understanding the seasonality of travel nurse demand can make a significant difference in maximizing occupancy and rental income. While the need for travel nurses is year-round, certain factors drive demand more heavily during specific periods. This guide will break down these drivers and provide actionable tips for landlords looking to attract travel nurse tenants.

Why Hospitals Hire More Travel Nurses in Certain Seasons 

Increased Patient Volume and Seasonal Illnesses (December-February, March-May)

• Why the Demand?
  • Seasonal illnesses like the flu and respiratory infections spike in winter, increasing hospital admissions.
  • Allergies and seasonal conditions often peak in spring and summer, requiring additional staff.
• When It Happens:
  • Winter months (December-February) see surges due to flu season and COVID.
  • Spring (March-May) brings increased patient volume from seasonal allergies and warmer weather activity.
• Tips for Landlords:
  • Ensure heating and cooling systems are functional and reliable.
  • Advertise proximity to hospitals and highlight flexible lease terms.

Staff Vacations and Time Off (June-August, December-January)

• Why the Demand?
  • Permanent healthcare staff often take vacations during the summer months and winter holidays.
  • These planned absences create predictable staffing gaps filled by travel nurses.
• When It Happens:
  • Summer (June-August) and winter holidays (December-January) see higher demand for temporary healthcare workers.
• Tips for Landlords:
  • Emphasize your property’s convenience for short-term stays.
  • Offer flexible check-in/check-out dates to match varying assignment schedules.

Budget Cycles and Hospital Planning (March-May, September-November)

• Why the Demand?
  • Many hospitals reassess staffing budgets in spring and fall, leading to increased hiring of travel nurses.
  • End-of-year budget use can create a sudden uptick in hiring temporary staff.
• When It Happens:
  • Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) align with budget review periods.
• Tips for Landlords:
  • List your property early in spring and fall to capture hospital-driven hiring cycles.
  • Highlight month-to-month lease options for added flexibility.

Geographic Demand and Climate-Related Trends (December-February, Year-Round)

• Why the Demand?
  • Warmer regions attract more healthcare demand during winter months as patients migrate seasonally.
  • Rural and underserved areas often see consistent demand throughout the year.
• When It Happens:
  • Southern regions experience peak demand during winter.
  • Northern regions often see higher demand during flu season and harsh winter months.
• Tips for Landlords:
  • Market properties in warmer climates as ideal winter stays.
  • Highlight accessibility and proximity to key healthcare hubs.

Year-Round Drivers of Travel Nurse Housing Demand

While some trends are seasonal, several factors ensure consistent demand for travel nurse housing throughout the year:

• Healthcare Staffing Shortages: Persistent gaps in staffing create continuous demand.
• Disaster Response Deployments: Events like hurricanes, pandemics, or natural disasters trigger immediate demand for temporary healthcare staff.
• Specialized Assignments: Some specialties, such as critical care or labor and delivery, maintain year-round staffing needs.

Tips for Attracting Travel Nurse Tenants

1. Offer Fully Furnished Rentals: Travel nurses prefer ready-to-move-in properties with essential furnishings.
2. Flexible Lease Terms: Month-to-month lease options are highly attractive for short-term assignments.
3. Highlight Proximity to Hospitals: Include details about nearby hospitals and healthcare facilities in your listing.
4. Ensure Reliable Utilities and Amenities: Strong Wi-Fi, in-unit laundry, and secure parking are essential.
5. Use Targeted Platforms: List your property on platforms like RotatingRoom to connect directly with travel nurses.

The demand for travel nurse housing follows predictable patterns tied to hospital needs, seasonal health trends, and staffing cycles. While winter and summer often see the sharpest spikes in demand, spring and fall bring consistent opportunities tied to budget cycles and regional factors. By aligning your property offerings with these trends and catering specifically to the needs of travel nurses, you can maximize occupancy and create a reliable income stream.

Ready to list your property?Connect with travel nurses seeking quality housing by showcasing your rental on RotatingRoom today!