Updated July 2025
For many, nursing is more than a job—it’s a calling. But even a calling can benefit from a change of pace. Working long hours in the same facility day after day can lead to burnout or restlessness. With local contract nursing jobs, you get the career flexibility and agency support typically reserved for travel nurses, but without the need to relocate. This means the work-life harmony needed to care for loved ones, get that certification, or focus on your health and well-being. To put it simply: local contract nursing lets you build the career you want, close to the life you love.
What is Local Contract Nursing?
Local contract nurses work temporary assignments at facilities near their permanent residence, usually within a 50-mile radius. Contracts are typically 8-13 weeks in length but can vary depending on the facility and its staffing needs. Unlike per diem roles, local contracts offer more predictable schedules and guaranteed hours, making them a stable option for nurses who want flexibility.
| Local Contract | Travel Nursing | Per Diem | |
| Length of Assignment | 8–13 weeks (varies) | 13 weeks (avg.) | Shift-by-shift |
| Commute Distance | Local (≤50 miles) | Nationwide | Local |
| Housing Provided | No | Usually | No |
| Guaranteed Hours | Usually | Yes | No |
| Pay Rate | Competitive | Higher (varies by need) | Varies by demand |
Why Choose Local Jobs Over Traditional Staff or Travel Roles?
Whether you’re looking to supplement your income, explore different work environments, or simply take more control of your schedule, local contract nursing jobs are a flexible, low-commitment alternative. Local contract nursing is perfect for nurses who:
- Want to test the waters with contract work before committing to travel nursing
- Need income between jobs or while pursuing further education
- Want the freedom to manage your own schedule or take breaks between assignments
- Have family, caregiver, or community obligations that keep them close to home
- Need to reduce hours without quitting nursing completely
The Benefits of Local Contract Nursing
More Work/Life Balance, Less Burnout
Local contracts give you room to breathe. You can choose short-term assignments like 13-week contracts, weekend-only shifts, or take extended breaks between roles. It’s a way to keep working in the field you love on a schedule that works for you.
Try New Career Settings Without Relocating
Thinking about trying a new unit or hospital, but don’t want to uproot your life? Local contract jobs let you gain experience in different settings without making a long-term commitment. It’s a low-pressure way to explore alternate career opportunities.
Serve Your Community, Stay Close to Home
These roles give you the chance to make a difference in your own community. Whether it’s filling a gap at an understaffed hospital or supporting a neighborhood clinic, you’re showing up for the people around you.
Grow Professionally Without Moving
Every assignment brings new challenges, new teams, systems, and workflows to learn. Local contracts allow you to keep building your skills and broadening your experience, all without leaving home.
Take Breaks When You Need Them
Not every season of life calls for a full-time, permanent role. Local jobs can give you more flexibility, whether you’re back in school, caring for family, or just need more time between shifts.
Agency Support Without Travel
Even working local contract nursing jobs, you’re not without full support and benefits. Many travel nurse agencies help with interviewing, logistics, housing & meal stipends, benefits, and more, so you can focus on your work and your goals.
Why Choose a Local Contract Through a Travel Nurse Agency?
While the term “travel nursing” often implies cross-country moves, most travel nurse organizations, like Medical Solutions or Matchwell, also offer local nursing contracts as W2 employees. So you still receive full benefits, dedicated recruiter support, and access to a giant database of jobs, without the travel requirement.
When you take local contract nursing jobs through a staffing agency, you unlock the best of both worlds:
- Expert guidance to help you navigate contracts, pay packages, and credentialing.
- W2 employment status, meaning access to healthcare, 401(k), and other benefits.
- A broad network of job options in your area that you may not find on your own.
- Flexibility to accept assignments based on your availability and interest.
- Opportunities to grow, pivot, or scale back with each new contract.
Frequently Asked Questions About Local Contract Nursing
Q: Do I still get benefits as a local contract nurse?
Yes. At Medical Solutions, local contract nurses are W2 employees. That means you’re eligible for full benefits, just like travel nurses.
Q: Can I still choose my schedule or shifts?
Absolutely. One of the main advantages of local contracts is flexibility. You can choose contracts that fit your availability, preferred shift times, and contract lengths.
Q: Is pay lower for local contracts than travel assignments?
Pay is competitive and often higher than traditional staff positions. While you may not receive the housing stipend that travel nurses receive (since you’re commuting), local contracts still offer strong hourly rates, especially for in-demand specialties.
Q: Can I take multiple local contracts back-to-back?
Yes! Many nurses treat local contracts as their full-time work model. You can take one assignment after another or build in time off between contracts.
Ready to Explore Local Contract Nursing Jobs?
If you’re drawn to the rewards of travel nursing but not the distance, a local nursing contract might be the perfect fit. With Medical Solutions, you can find meaningful work nearby, backed by a team that supports you every step of the way. Getting started is simple: browse open roles in your area, connect with a recruiter to talk through your options, and take the next step when you’re ready!
Browse Local Contract Nursing Jobs now or Talk to a Recruiter
