PRN Nursing Jobs in Florida: Ultimate Guide [2024]

Florida offers numerous attractions and opportunities for healthcare professionals. Discover what living and working in Florida is like for nurses and nursing assistants.

Sun-soaked beaches, diverse communities, and a thriving healthcare sector make Florida a prime destination. Dive into this guide to unveil the world of nursing in the Sunshine State and understand why choosing Florida might be the best decision for your nursing journey. Whether you’re a Registered Nurse (RN), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), or Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), let’s explore the wonders of working in Florida, cheapest cities, PRN nursing jobs, and average incomes nursing professionals can expect to earn.

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Salary information throughout this guide comes from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (most recent data as of December 2023).

How Much Do Nurses in Florida Make?

Here’s a glance at the mean annual wages for nurses and nursing assistants in Florida:

• RN Salary in Florida: On average, RN jobs in Florida may earn you around $79,910 annually, though this figure can vary based on location, facility type, and specialization.
• LPN Salary in Florida: LPNs typically earn an average annual wage of $53,780, influenced by factors like location and work setting.
• CNA Salary in Florida: CNAs in Florida can expect a mean annual wage of around $33,390. Like other nursing roles, this income can vary based on several factors.

Why Florida for Nurses?

Healthcare within the medical centers in Florida provides many opportunities across different nursing domains. Whether you’re a seasoned RN, LPN, or CNA, Florida’s hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics have a wealth of positions waiting for you. With renowned healthcare centers in Florida, like Baptist Health and Jacksonville’s Mayo Clinic, there are endless possibilities for nursing professionals who want to pick up per diem shifts.  

Florida is a popular state for nurses and nursing assistants to work in. Keep reading to learn more about working in Florida as a nurse.

Best Nursing Programs in Florida

Are you evaluating nursing schools in Florida? Look at the first-time NCLEX pass rates.

The Florida Board of Nursing mandates nursing graduates to clear the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to get a Florida nursing license.

The Florida Board of Nursing adheres to rigorous benchmarks, guaranteeing your distinction is evident when prospective employers look up your nursing license.

First-Time NCLEX-PN Pass Rates in Florida

Source: National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) Report

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First-Time NCLEX Pass Rates for ADN Programs in Florida

Source: National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) Report

First-Time NCLEX Pass Rates of the Top BSN Programs in Florida

Source: National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) Report

Florida’s Bright Horizon for Nursing Careers

In the heart of the Sunshine State, amidst its allure, hospitals are posting jobs for nurses in various specialties and units, including the cardiovascular intensive care unit (CVICU), emergency room (ER), progressive care unit (PCU), intensive care unit (ICU), operating room (OR), and pediatrics. Furthermore, patient care techs (PCTs) and nurses can pick up high-paying PRN shifts in various healthcare facilities.

CNAs often view Florida not just as a vacation spot but as a vibrant stepping stone. While CNA jobs in Florida offer a unique challenge for solo living on the mean wage, they serve as a golden ticket for nursing students. Beyond the paycheck, these roles open doors to subsidizing your education and present a stellar platform to gather real-world healthcare experience before donning that graduation cap. For those looking at flexible roles, per diem nursing assistant jobs are an enticing option.

What’s a hot new trend for nurses and nursing assistants in Florida? You guessed it: per diem nurse jobs. In Florida, PRN nursing shifts, especially those for registered nurses, bring forth a financial windfall. Across its sun-kissed cities, nurses find their pockets brimming. In many places, RNs can earn over twice the living wage! For the solo adventurer nurse, Florida isn’t just about beaches and sunsets; it’s a haven to both relish its beauty and bolster that savings account.

Browse available PRN nursing jobs for RNs, LPNs, and CNAs in the following Florida cities:

• Tampa Bay
• Port Charlotte
• Lakeland
• Daytona Beach
• Jupiter

Delving into Florida’s Regions

From its tropical landscapes to its bustling cities, Florida offers diverse experiences.

Miami: The Vibrant Metropolis

As one of the nation’s most vibrant cities, Miami boasts a rich culture and a plethora of healthcare opportunities. Renowned hospitals in Florida, like Baptist Health and the University of Miami Health System, offer myriad nursing positions in this city.

Tampa: The Coastal Gem

Tampa’s mix of modernity and history provides a unique backdrop for nursing. With institutions like Tampa General Hospital, the city promises numerous opportunities.

Orlando: Theme Park Capital

Beyond its theme parks, Orlando has a thriving healthcare sector with facilities like Orlando Health, making it a hotspot for nursing professionals.

Jacksonville: Coastal Grandeur

Located on the northeast coast, Jacksonville has a burgeoning healthcare scene. Mayo Clinic and UF Health Jacksonville are just a couple of the city’s major healthcare facilities.

Naples: Beachside Serenity

For those seeking a calmer environment, Naples offers a mix of top-notch healthcare facilities and pristine beaches.

Securing Health Insurance in Florida for Nurses

For nursing professionals in Florida, procuring the appropriate insurance coverage is an indispensable step in safeguarding your professional and personal future. When initiating the insurance application process, it is imperative to have requisite documentation on hand, such as your Social Security number, verifiable proof of income, and pertinent details of household members. Be aware that your established residency status might influence your insurance eligibility in Florida.

Health and Other Types of Insurance in Florida

Health Insurance: It’s crucial to meticulously assess various health insurance offerings to ascertain alignment with your specific medical requirements. Key determinants, including premiums, deductibles, and coverage scope, should factor prominently into your decision-making process.

Professional Liability Insurance: Recognized in some quarters as malpractice insurance, this type of coverage is particularly beneficial for nurses on contract terms, encompassing travel nurses and those operating on a PRN basis. It protects against prospective legal repercussions stemming from your nursing activities.

Disability Insurance: In the unfortunate event of an inability to perform your duties due to injury or ailment, disability insurance provides a financial buffer. It’s noteworthy that per diem nurses, often devoid of the employment assurances of their staff counterparts, stand to gain significantly from this form of coverage.

Before endorsing any insurance agreement, it is paramount to conduct a thorough examination of the policy specifics, from the upper limits of coverage, deductible amounts, and co-payment obligations to the roster of in-network service providers. It is essential to ensure the selected plan is congruent with your health requisites and professional aspirations.

Florida’s Allure

Florida’s blend of beaches, culture, and urban landscapes provides a unique setting for nurses and nursing assistants. Whether you’re into water sports, cultural events, or simply soaking up the sun, Florida has something to offer.

Largo, with its lush Florida Botanical Gardens, beckons nature lovers to witness its radiant bloom. Hialeah, proud of its rich Cuban heritage, entices visitors with vibrant festivals and the legendary Hialeah Park Racing & Casino. Saint Petersburg, often dubbed the “Sunshine City,” boasts an eclectic arts scene, including the Salvador Dalí Museum, which houses a mesmerizing collection. Pembroke Pines, a stone’s throw from the Everglades, offers a serene escape amidst urban growth. Brandon, despite its bustling growth, remains rooted in a community vibe evident in its weekend markets. Clearwater, home to the award-winning Clearwater Beach, is a sandy haven for beachgoers. Lastly, Fort Myers, the “City of Palms,” provides a historical touch with Edison and Ford Winter Estates while embracing modern life with riverfront activities.

Want to know what else Florida has to offer? Here are some of the state’s top attractions:

• Beach Haven: Florida boasts over 1,300 miles of coastline, more than any other state in the contiguous US.
• Culinary Scene: Miami offers a blend of global cuisines, making it a food lover’s paradise.
• Space Coast: Cape Canaveral, home to the Kennedy Space Center, witnesses numerous rocket launches.‍
• Everglades: The Everglades is the largest tropical wilderness of any US national park.

What Are the Cheapest Cities in Florida?

Florida's quest for an affordable lifestyle offers as much variety as its scenic views. Take Sebring, for instance, a little slice of financial paradise where the cost of living in Florida               may be as gentle on your finances as a soft breeze. There's also Gainesville, buzzing with the youth and college energy, yet surprisingly easy on the purse, making it a hit with students and families alike. In Homosassa Springs, the cost of living feels as light as the famous springs that define the area. Ocala is not just about horse-loving; it's also about loving a good quality life amidst the rolling green pastures. And for those eyeing a relaxed environment, the Villages offer a lifestyle that's rich in amenities but not in cost. These places are not only budget-friendly, but will enrich your experience of Florida's diverse charm, from peaceful greenery to lively community squares.

Is Working in Florida the Right Choice for You?

With sun-kissed Miami Beach, the bustling vibe of Orlando, and the tranquil shores of Naples, Florida offers varied experiences. If you’re considering a nursing career in the Sunshine State, prepare for a rewarding journey both professionally and personally. Welcome to Florida, the nurse’s paradise.