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Travel Nursing in Ohio
Ohio is one of the strongest travel nursing markets in the Midwest, powered by the Cleveland Clinic, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, and University of Cincinnati Medical Center, all nationally ranked institutions. ProMedica in Toledo, Kettering Health Network in Dayton, and Summa Health in Akron add depth to the market. Ohio's seven major metro areas each maintain their own robust healthcare ecosystems, creating assignment diversity uncommon in most states.
Ohio joined the Nurse Licensure Compact, making it accessible for compact license holders. The state offers a low to moderate cost of living, with affordable housing in all major metros. Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati each offer distinct cultural identities with professional sports, dining scenes, and arts communities. Ohio's central location makes it easy to reach neighboring states for weekend trips.
Quick Stats
Agencies
60+
Avg Weekly Pay
$2,200-$3,400/wk
Compact License
Yes
Ohio is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). Nurses with a multistate compact license can practice in Ohio immediately.
Top Cities
ClevelandColumbusCincinnatiToledoDayton
Top Agencies for Ohio
These agencies are known for strong Ohio assignment inventories, competitive pay, and solid recruiter support.
Licensing Information
Ohio participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). Travel nurses with a multistate compact license can practice in Ohio immediately. Non-compact nurses must apply through the Ohio Board of Nursing.
Processing Time: Endorsement applications typically take 4 to 6 weeks.
Tips for a Smooth Application
- Verify compact license status before accepting an Ohio assignment.
- Ohio's Board of Nursing has improved processing times with online applications.
- Cleveland Clinic assignments are highly competitive; apply early.
- A criminal background check through the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation is required.
Popular Cities in Ohio
Cleveland
The Cleveland Clinic is consistently ranked among the top hospitals in the world. University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center adds another nationally ranked option. Travel nurses here gain world-class clinical experience at moderate cost of living.
Columbus
Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center is the state's largest academic medical center. Columbus is Ohio's fastest-growing city with a vibrant arts, food, and nightlife scene.
Cincinnati
UC Medical Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital (ranked #3 nationally), and TriHealth serve the Queen City. Cincinnati offers a unique urban culture, affordable housing, and proximity to Kentucky.
Toledo
ProMedica Toledo Hospital and Mercy Health serve Northwest Ohio. Toledo offers very affordable housing and Lake Erie access.
Dayton
Kettering Health Network and Premier Health serve the Dayton metro. The birthplace of aviation offers affordable living and a moderate volume of travel assignments.
Popular Specialties in Ohio
ICU
Cleveland Clinic and OSU Wexner Medical Center maintain world-class ICUs with premium-pay demand for experienced critical care nurses.
ER
Ohio's multiple urban trauma centers create consistent ER travel demand across all major metros.
OR
Cleveland Clinic's surgical programs, including heart surgery, drive premium OR travel nurse demand.
Med Surg
Ohio's large hospital networks maintain substantial med surg travel demand across the state.
Housing Notes
Ohio housing is very affordable. Cleveland averages $900-$1,300/month. Columbus is $1,000-$1,400. Cincinnati ranges from $900-$1,300. Toledo and Dayton are $700-$1,000. Agency stipends of $1,400-$2,000/week exceed costs in all Ohio metros.
Nursing Schools in Ohio
Top nursing programs for those looking to build or advance their career.
Case Western Reserve University Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing
Cleveland, OH
BSNMSNDNPPhD
AccreditedOnline
Average Pay by Specialty
Weekly gross pay ranges for travel nurses in Ohio, based on current market data.
| Specialty | Weekly Pay Range |
|---|---|
| ICU | $2,600-$3,600/wk |
| ER | $2,400-$3,400/wk |
| OR | $2,500-$3,500/wk |
| Med Surg | $2,000-$2,800/wk |
| Telemetry | $2,200-$3,000/wk |
| L&D | $2,300-$3,200/wk |
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Ohio is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact.
Cleveland Clinic is consistently ranked among the top 5 hospitals in the country. Travel assignments there offer exceptional clinical experience, particularly in cardiac care and surgery.
Yes. Ohio has a low cost of living across all major metros. Agency stipends typically exceed actual expenses, making Ohio excellent for savings.
Cleveland and Columbus offer the highest volume and pay. Cincinnati provides a unique cultural experience. All three are affordable and offer distinct advantages.
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