7 openings from $2,179–$2,657/week in Santa Cruz, CA — NICU, Med-Surg, Emergency Room. Pay by specialty, what it costs to live there, and 4 furnished places to stay.
7 openings from $2,179–$2,657/week right now.
4 furnished rentals available for travel nurses.
Prices in Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA (Metropolitan Statistical Area) run 10% higher overall.
| Category | Index | vs national |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 109.9 | 10% higher |
| Housing | 164.3 | 64% higher |
| Utilities | 152.7 | 53% higher |
| Groceries and goods | 105.2 | 5% higher |
| Services | 100.3 | at the national average |
Source: BEA Regional Price Parities, 2024, where 100 is the national average.
| Unit | Monthly | Measure |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | $3,480 | HUD Fair Market Rent 2025, utilities included |
| One bedroom | $3,670 | HUD Fair Market Rent 2025, utilities included |
| Two bedroom | $4,810 | HUD Fair Market Rent 2025, utilities included |
| Three bedroom | $5,990 | HUD Fair Market Rent 2025, utilities included |
| Typical asking rent, all sizes | $3,995 | Zillow Observed Rent Index 2025 |
The federal ceiling on tax-free lodging reimbursement in Santa Cruz is $149–$181 per night, plus up to $86 a day for meals (GSA, FY2027). That is a maximum, not what agencies pay. Look up the exact rate for any ZIP code.
California is not a Nurse Licensure Compact state, so you need a California license to work here even if you hold a multistate license. Check your license with the compact checker.
Average weekly package (base + stipends): $2,771 based on 3 reports.
See all 7 openings in Santa Cruz
1 hospital in Santa Cruz is hiring travel nurses, 7 openings in all. Each page lists the openings by specialty with advertised weekly pay, cost of living and housing nearby.