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Orlando, Florida, offers an attractive combination of career opportunities and exceptional quality of life, making it a compelling location for living in the Sunshine State. Renowned for its many theme parks, mild year-round weather, abundant outdoor activities and thriving arts and cultural scene, it’s easy to see Orlando’s appeal to nurses and allied health professionals. The city’s robust healthcare industry and lack of state income tax are also key factors that draw staff and travel healthcare professionals (HCPs) to this vibrant community that celebrates various cultures, traditions and cuisines. Explore nursing jobs in Orlando if you’re searching for travel or staff nursing or allied health jobs in a sunny city filled with fun, fantasy and fabulous family-friendly attractions around every corner.
Top Hospitals in Orlando, FL
With numerous renowned hospitals, medical centers and research institutions, Orlando’s flourishing healthcare industry provides HCPs with a wealth of job opportunities and avenues for career advancement. The city’s leading institutions offer state-of-the-art facilities, exceptional patient care, cutting-edge research and specialized units across medical fields. The following hospitals typically rank among the top healthcare employers in Orlando.
AdventHealth Orlando
AdventHealth Orlando (formerly Florida Hospital Orlando) is the flagship campus of AdventHealth’s (FKA Adventist Health System) Central Florida Division. It’s the largest hospital owned by AdventHealth, with over 2,900 beds per the American Hospital Directory, and one of the largest healthcare providers in Central Florida. U.S. News & World Report recognized AdventHealth Orlando as the No. 1 hospital in Orlando and No. 2 in the state in 2022-2023. It was also rated high performing in four adult specialties and 17 procedures or conditions. The tertiary-care facility offers a comprehensive range of medical services, including specialized centers that might appeal to healthcare professionals in cardiology, oncology, orthopedics or neuroscience.
Orlando Health – Orlando Regional Medical Center
Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) employs 36,000 people at the flagship hospital of the not-for-profit Orlando Health healthcare system. The short-term acute care teaching hospital serves as Central Florida’s only Level I trauma center and is one of the most extensive tertiary facilities in the region. It ranked as the No. 2 hospital in Orlando and No. 8 in the state, rating high performing in 13 procedures or conditions in 2022-2023. ORMC earned Magnet status for its nursing excellence in 2023 but has provided advanced medical, emergency, surgical and rehabilitative care for more than 100 years. Nurses and allied professionals regularly caring for oncology, stroke, vascular, heart, neuroscience, trauma, orthopedic and surgical patients may be particularly attracted to this facility’s state-of-the-art technology and continuum of care.
Nemours Children’s Hospital
Nemours Children’s Hospital is a not-for-profit children’s hospital inside Orlando’s Lake Nona Medical Center, providing specialized pediatric care across various medical disciplines. Known for its expertise in pediatric oncology, cardiology, gastroenterology and other specialties, Nemours ranked as the No. 5 children’s hospital in Florida and No. 15 in the Southeast United States in 2022-2023. The teaching hospital also ranked nationally in pediatric orthopedics and diabetes and endocrinology. Healthcare professionals in the pediatrics field may be drawn to Nemours for its reputation of being one of the nation’s safest pediatric hospitals and providing children with a full spectrum of care, from the womb and throughout the child’s life.
Average Nurse and Allied Health Pay Rates in Orlando
Vivian had nearly 1,200 postings for various nursing or allied health jobs in and around Orlando, FL, in late June 2023. Positions included staff and travel roles at top hospitals and other healthcare facilities throughout the city and across the state. The following table demonstrates the average and maximum pay for RNs and allied health workers employed in Orlando during this period.
| Discipline | Average Pay Rate | Max Pay Rate |
| Staff Registered Nurse | $40.15/hour | $58/hour |
| Travel Registered Nurse | $1,815/week | $2,992/week |
| Staff Allied Health Professional | $27.15/hour | $32/hour |
| Travel Allied Health Professional | $1,990/week | $3,266/week |
Top paying staff nursing jobs in Orlando in late June 2023 included pediatric CVICU, PICU and operating room positions, while high earners within travel nursing jobs included progressive care unit, OR and CVOR nurses. In-demand staff allied health jobs based on salary included MRI, ultrasound and cath lab technologist. During this period, travel allied health jobs in Orlando with above-average pay included CVOR, surgical and interventional radiology technologists.
Cost of Living in Orlando, FL
According to Sperling’s Best Places, Orlando’s overall cost of living is just 3% above the national average and housing costs are less than 1% higher than the norm. Compared to other major cities, Orlando has a relatively affordable housing market, with a wide range of housing options, from apartments to suburban homes. Combine the city’s favorable cost of living with the fact that Florida doesn’t collect state income taxes, and it’s easy to see why Orlando is quickly becoming a premier destination for healthcare professionals seeking an excellent quality of life without breaking the bank.
Top Locations to Live in Orlando, FL
Orlando, Florida, boasts a diverse array of neighborhoods that appeal to various preferences, making it an ideal destination for HCPs seeking a place to call home temporarily or long-term. From vibrant urban districts like Downtown Orlando, with its lively atmosphere and thriving nightlife, to the more tranquil suburban settings of areas like Lake Nona or Winter Park, the city has a neighborhood to suit every lifestyle. Consider the following neighborhoods for their own unique characteristics and amenities. Average home prices and rental rates used are from Movoto Real Estate and RentCafe as of late June 2023.
- Downtown Orlando: As part of the city center, Downtown Orlando offers an energetic urban atmosphere that often appeals to young professionals in the medical field. Residents enjoy a wide variety of dining options, entertainment venues and shopping spots, with the added convenience of being near AdventHealth Orlando, Orlando Regional Medical Center and other medical facilities. Housing options include a mix of apartment buildings, high-rise condos and bungalow-style single-family homes, with the average home price around $200,000 and rental rates between $1,200 and $2,178 monthly.
- Winter Park: Healthcare professionals with families may prefer the charming suburban setting found in Winter Park, just north of Orlando. With its tree-lined streets, diverse dining options, boutiques, parks, lakes and outdoor leisure activities, it’s a community ideal for outdoorsy health professionals. Housing options include apartments, bungalows and personable lakefront homes, with home prices around $400,000 to buy or about $1,716 monthly to rent.
- Lake Nona: The Lake Nona neighborhood also appeals to professionals and families, especially those seeking a modern, planned community with plenty of recreational spaces, excellent schools and a lively entertainment scene. It boasts something for every budget: apartments, townhouses, condos, single-family homes and large estates. Average home prices start at around $320,000, with average rental costs at $2,152.
- Baldwin Park: Healthcare professionals and families who enjoy walkable communities may be lured to Baldwin Park. This neighborhood offers sleek, spacious suburban living near downtown, with well-maintained parks, highly rated schools and lots of outdoor attractions, stores and restaurants within easy distances. Housing choices include apartments, cottages and townhouses renting for around $2,400 per month to expansive Mediterranean-style homes on large properties, with home prices starting at about $400,000.
- College Park: This neighborhood’s historic charm and local boutiques appeal to a mix of residents, from artists to families to young professionals. Its proximity to downtown and the many healthcare facilities in the area also make it preferred by medical professionals seeking all the benefits of living near the city center without the common disadvantages. Housing choices include modern apartments, bungalows and luxury homes, including Mediterranean Revival homes near the shores of Lake Ivanhoe. Median home prices in College Park run about $275,000, while the average rental costs close to $2,300 monthly.
Popular Orlando, FL Attractions
Orlando has a wonderful mix of attractions catering to all ages and interests. From thrilling rides at world-famous theme parks to captivating exhibits at local museums and time spent at nearby beaches, the city offers something for everyone. Whether you immerse yourself in the vibrant local entertainment scene or the serene natural settings, HCPs find a multitude of popular places to enjoy on their days off, whether they’re long-term residents or just passing through on a short travel gig.
Amusement Parks: Orlando is synonymous with stunning amusement parks, such as Walt Disney World Resort’s magical attractions and iconic characters, Universal Orlando’s immersive adventures in the world of movies and SeaWorld Orlando’s adorable aquatic animal encounters. With more than a dozen theme parks in Orlando, there’s no shortage of fun and adventure where kids, young and old, can enjoy everything from an enchanting castle to exhilarating rides that go up, down and all around. The city is like a non-stop carnival, making it a fabulous location for healthcare workers with families wanting to create unforgettable memories.
The Beaches: Although there aren’t any beaches within Orlando, there are numerous magnificent beaches only an hour or two from the city. HCPs can shred some waves, relax on the golden sands with a good book or enjoy many other outdoor adventures where the water is pristine and the air is clean. Because Orlando is centrally located, you can head in either direction to hit the beaches on the Atlantic or Gulf Coast.
Less than an hour away, visit Daytona Beach, dubbed the “World’s Most Famous Beach” for its 23 miles of hard-packed white sand shoreline, iconic beach experience and long history of being a mecca for racing enthusiasts. Other popular beaches on the Atlantic Coast include Cocoa Beach and New Smyrna Beach. On the Gulf side, visit the crystal-clear waters of Clearwater Beach, also home to a popular aquarium.
Enola Park: This charming park offers a little slice of heaven right in the middle of Downtown Orlando. Nurses and allied health professionals can relax and recharge after work, surrounded by nature, with Enola Lake at the center. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along scenic pathways or a tranquil ride along the water on a swan-shaped paddleboat. The park is also home to majestic real-life swans, the most famous fountain in the city, an authentic Chinese Ting (pagoda-like structure) from Shanghai and the Walt Disney Amphitheater, where you can catch a concert, movie or play. Cute cafes surrounding the park offer a great place to grab a bite after an enjoyable day outdoors.
The World of Chocolate Museum: Chocolate fans won’t want to miss this delectable treat. The World of Chocolate Museum is an interactive museum that takes you on a journey through chocolate’s history, art and science, with fascinating displays and exhibits that make it a veritable paradise for chocolate lovers. Delight in the tasty ambiance and marvel at the mouthwatering chocolate sculptures. Then, learn all about the chocolate-making process before diving into some delicious chocolate samples that indulge your taste buds in the yummiest way. Even the staunchest chocolate connoisseur will leave with a newfound appreciation for the wonders of chocolate and their sweet tooth completely satisfied.
Orlando’s Foodie Scene
With its melting pot of cultures, Orlando boasts a thriving foodie scene that caters to diverse palates and satisfies every craving. Known for its eclectic culinary offerings, the city features a broad range of international cuisines, from Latin American delights to Asian fusion. Indulge in flavorful Cuban dishes like succulent roast pork or the vibrant flavors of Caribbean cuisine such as mouthwatering jerk chicken or fresh seafood dishes. You’ll also find a rich tapestry of Asian flavors, from savory Thai curries to delectable Vietnamese pho.
On the local front, Orlando embraces farm-to-table concepts with fresh, locally sourced ingredients highlighting the sustainable side of its culinary landscape. Whether you’re seeking upscale dining or comfort food, Orlando’s amazing array of cuisines reflects the city’s multicultural heritage and promises a tantalizing adventure for food lovers.
Getting Around Orlando, FL
Orlando provides a comprehensive public transportation system to facilitate commuting to work. Healthcare professionals who prefer not to drive can catch a ride on a Lynx Bus. Lynx operates a network of buses with extensive routes covering the city and surrounding areas, ensuring convenient access to hospitals and medical facilities popular with nurses and allied health professionals.
The SunRail commuter train offers an additional option for transportation, serving the Downtown Orlando area and connecting to other suburbs. Travel nurses and allied health professionals needing a quick way in or out of the city can utilize the Orlando International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the United States.
Nurses and allied health professionals seeking staff or travel jobs in Orlando or anywhere in Florida can count on Vivian Health to help them find their perfect job. Our platform connects healthcare professionals with top employers by focusing on salary transparency, a speedier hiring process and matching the ideal candidate with the ideal job to make finding healthcare jobs faster and easier than ever. Take the next step on your career journey with Vivian today.
