Moving to the United States to further your healthcare career is an exciting step, but it also involves a lot of logistics, including finding a place to live after your housing benefit ends. If you’re unfamiliar with the U.S. housing market, navigating rental options, understanding neighborhoods, and choosing a home that meets your needs can feel overwhelming. Global Nurse Partners will assist you in your search for a permanent home; however, it’s still beneficial to understand how renting works, what factors to consider when selecting a neighborhood, and how to find housing that fits your lifestyle and budget. We offer some guidance below that we hope you find helpful.
Renting 101: What to Expect
In the U.S., renting is a common option, especially for people who are relocating or starting a new chapter. Most rental homes and apartments require a lease, typically for 12 months, though shorter or longer options are sometimes available. You’ll likely be asked to fill out a rental application and provide documentation such as proof of employment, references, and sometimes a credit history. Some landlords may ask for a higher security deposit from new tenants with limited credit history.
Renting terms often include the monthly rent, a security deposit (usually equal to one month’s rent), and sometimes additional costs for utilities such as electricity, water, and internet. Be sure to read your lease agreement carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear!
Types of Housing Options
In the U.S., rental housing comes in many forms. You might consider:
- Apartments: These are units in a building or complex, often with shared amenities like gyms, pools, or laundry facilities. Some include utilities in the rent.
- Condos or townhomes: These may be rented from individual owners and can offer more space or a quieter setting.
- Single-family homes: If you’re moving with family or prefer more privacy, renting a standalone house might be ideal.
Each option has pros and cons depending on your budget, commute, and lifestyle. When considering a rental, it’s important to ask about maintenance policies, parking availability, and safety features.
Finding the Right Neighborhood
Selecting a neighborhood that fits your needs is one of the most crucial aspects of your housing search. Since our healthcare professionals are placed nationwide, we recommend starting with these key considerations, no matter where you’re relocating:
- Commute to work: Living closer to your healthcare facility might make daily life easier if you’ll be working night shifts or rotating schedules.
- Transportation: Some cities have excellent public transit, while others require a car. Make sure to explore how you’ll get to work and run errands.
- Safety: Online tools like local crime maps or neighborhood forums can offer insight into the safety of an area.
- Schools and family resources: If you’re moving with children, research nearby schools, childcare options, and parks.
- Community and culture: Many healthcare professionals find comfort in neighborhoods with diverse populations or communities that reflect their own cultural backgrounds.
Tips for the Housing Search
- Start early: Rental markets can move quickly, especially in cities. Global Nurse Partners will help you start your housing search well before your housing benefit ends.
- Use trusted websites: Platforms like Zillow, Apartments.com, or Rent.com can give you a broad look at available options. Be cautious of scams; never send money before seeing a lease or confirming legitimacy.
- Ask your employer or recruiter: Global Nurse Partners provides relocation assistance and a housing benefit for its healthcare professionals, and other organizations with international recruitment programs may offer similar support. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance.
- Consider short-term options: If you’re not ready to commit to a long-term lease, temporary housing alternatives like furnished apartments or extended-stay hotels can offer a chance to explore various neighborhoods before deciding on a new home. While temporary housing tends to be more expensive, the extra investment may ultimately prove worthwhile in the long run.
Our Commitment to Your Transition
Global Nurse Partners offers three months of housing, furniture, and utilities as part of our relocation package. This housing benefit is unique within a direct hire program and provides valuable support to new arrivals. Feedback indicates that this benefit reduces the stress of arriving in an unfamiliar area and gives newcomers time to explore and get comfortable before signing a lease with a landlord. Those familiar with the area or with family and friends nearby can choose our housing subsidy option to help cover setup costs, which is highly beneficial.
After arrival, our transition care program begins and provides help in securing a permanent home, usually a rental property.
Settling into life in the U.S. is a big transition, but finding the right housing can help you feel more comfortable and confident as you start your new role. Take time to explore your options, ask for help when needed, and focus on finding a place that feels safe, convenient, and welcoming.
Whether you’re heading to a major city or a small town, our team is here to support your journey every step of the way. Housing may be just one piece of the puzzle, but it’s a big one, and with the right tools and information, you’ll be well on your way to making a home in the U.S.