1 opening at $3,048/week in Santa Maria, CA — L&D. Pay by specialty, what it costs to live there, and 7 furnished places to stay.
1 opening at $3,048/week right now.
7 furnished rentals available for travel nurses.
Prices in Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA (Metropolitan Statistical Area) run 9% higher overall.
| Category | Index | vs national |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 108.8 | 9% higher |
| Housing | 151.4 | 51% higher |
| Utilities | 149.8 | 50% 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 | $2,100 | HUD Fair Market Rent 2025, utilities included |
| One bedroom | $2,390 | HUD Fair Market Rent 2025, utilities included |
| Two bedroom | $2,700 | HUD Fair Market Rent 2025, utilities included |
| Three bedroom | $3,600 | HUD Fair Market Rent 2025, utilities included |
| Typical asking rent, all sizes | $2,215 | Zillow Observed Rent Index 2025 |
The federal ceiling on tax-free lodging reimbursement in Santa Maria is $205–$262 per night, plus up to $92 a day for meals (GSA, FY2026). That is a maximum, not what agencies pay.
California is not a Nurse Licensure Compact state, so you need a California license to work here even if you hold a multistate license.
Average weekly package (base + stipends): $2,771 based on 3 reports.
1 hospital in Santa Maria is hiring travel nurses, 1 opening in all. Each page lists the openings by specialty with advertised weekly pay, cost of living and housing nearby.