Airbnb vs. Rental vs. Extended Stay: Which is Best for Travel Nurses?

Travel nurses know how frequently life can change with each new assignment. Whether you’re moving across the state or across the country for a job, finding the right place to live while on contract is crucial. With so many options available—like Airbnb, rental apartments, and extended-stay hotels—how do you decide which one is the best fit for your lifestyle and budget? Let’s break down the pros and cons of each option to help you choose wisely.

Airbnb vs. Hotel: What’s Right for Travel Nurses?

Airbnb for Travel Nurses  

Airbnb offers a wide variety of options, from cozy rooms to full apartments. For travel nurses, this flexibility can be appealing, especially when contracts vary in length. You may be able to find an Airbnb for traveling nurses that offers long-term stays at discounted rates. If you’re looking for a place that feels more like a home, with a kitchen and personal touches, Airbnb could be the perfect fit.

Pros:  

• Flexibility in choosing a type of space.
• Often located in residential areas, giving you a local living experience.
• Can come fully furnished and stocked with essentials.

Cons:  

• Availability may vary depending on location and season.
• Higher cleaning fees or service charges can add up over time.
• May not have all of the amenities of a home, like a kitchen

VRBO vs. Hotel

Similar to Airbnb, VRBO (Vacation Rentals By Owner) offers short-term rentals but with a focus on full homes rather than individual rooms. For travel nurses who crave more privacy and space, VRBO might be a better alternative to a hotel.

Pros:  

• Larger spaces, often full homes with multiple amenities.
• More privacy than a traditional hotel or Airbnb.
• You may be able to split a space with coworkers.

Cons:  

• Prices can be higher, especially for full-home rentals.
• Limited availability in some areas compared to hotels.

Extended Stay Hotels for Travel Nurses

What is an extended-stay hotel? An extended-stay hotel is designed specifically for guests who need to stay for longer periods, including people who are traveling for work. These hotels usually offer discounted rates for longer stays and often include amenities like kitchenettes, weekly housekeeping, and on-site laundry.

How Much Are Extended Stay Hotels?  

Prices vary widely depending on location, but extended-stay hotels are generally more affordable for longer stays compared to nightly hotel rates. On average, you can expect rates to be lower than a typical hotel, especially when booking for a month or longer.

Pros:

• Affordable, especially for longer stays.
• Convenience with on-site amenities like housekeeping, laundry, and often free breakfast.
• Fully furnished and move-in ready.

Cons:

• Limited space compared to a rental apartment or Airbnb.
• Less privacy, as it still operates like a hotel with shared spaces and regular foot traffic.

Short-Term Rentals for Traveling Nurses

Renting an Apartment as a Travel Nurse

Short-term rentals are often a top choice for travel nurses. These rentals can offer more space, privacy, and the comforts of home. Depending on the length of your assignment, you can sign flexible leases that range from a few months to a year. Apartments tend to be more cost-effective than Airbnb for longer stays, especially when you factor in discounts on utilities and rent over time.

Pros:

• More space and privacy compared to extended stay hotels or Airbnbs.
• Cost-effective for long-term stays.
• Flexibility to personalize the space, especially with furniture and decor from services like CORT.

Cons:  

• Longer leases may be required depending on availability.
• You may need to furnish the apartment yourself if it’s not already furnished.

Airbnb Alternative: What Should Travel Nurses Consider?

Airbnb may not always be available or cost-effective for some travel nurses, especially during peak travel seasons. In those cases, short-term rental apartments or extended-stay hotels are excellent alternatives. Whether you choose a rental, hotel, or an Airbnb alternative, it’s essential to consider the length of your stay, the amenities you need, and your budget.

So, Which Option is Best?

It depends! If you value flexibility and a “home away from home” feel, Airbnb or VRBO might be your top choice. If convenience and affordability are priorities, an extended-stay hotel can offer you everything you need with less hassle. Finally, short-term rental apartments are often the most practical option if you want the best value and space for longer assignments.

What If Your Contract Specifies Housing?

Sometimes, your contract might specify where you must live, such as an extended-stay hotel or hospital-provided housing. This can take a lot of the guesswork out of finding a place to stay, and it may even come with perks like proximity to the hospital or discounted rates. However, if your contract provides a housing stipend instead, you’ll have the flexibility to choose your own accommodation. In these instances, weighing the pros and cons of Airbnb, short-term rentals, and extended-stay hotels will help you make the best decision for your budget and lifestyle.

Create Your Temporary Home with CORT

If your job as a travel nurse has you moving from one hospital to the next, having a stable, comfortable place to come home to every night is important. If you decide that a rental apartment is right for you, turn to CORT to furnish your temporary home base with high-quality furniture and decor. Stop by your local CORT showroom or get started online.

And when you’re ready to find that next apartment, ApartmentSearch is your go-to for finding the top apartments in your next destination. Use our advanced filters to prioritize the amenities you value most! Visit ApartmentSearch today to get started.