Understanding Regional US Breakdown

From housing to communication, we wanna make sure that we equipped you with the right tools to feel confident and prepared. Today's topic is all about location, a very popular topic among all of our candidates. I know it's a big decision to make on where you're gonna live.

So because where you live in the United States can have such a big impact on your lifestyle, your finances, and just your overall experience, we'll be breaking down the key differences between the four major US regions. United States is absolutely huge, and maybe not all of you are aware how big it actually is. So there's the northeast, the south, the Midwest, and the west. So that includes everything from climate and housing options to cultural pace and then cost of living.

So joining us today to walk through these regional insights is Chad Hyatt, international employee supervisor.

I'm so excited to have Chad on the broadcast today. How are you doing?

Oh, I'm doing good. I'm excited to be on here today.

Good. Good. Well, we've got a lot to talk about, so let's get into it.

Absolutely. So thanks, Courtney, for having me. This topic is so important because choosing the right location goes beyond just picking a state. It's about understanding the day to day lifestyle that comes with that choice.

That could be the weather, housing availability, transportation, and even how close you are to schools and grocery stores. All of those things can shape how comfortable you and your family will feel on your new community. Alright.

Well, before we dive into today's topic, we actually want to hear from all of you that are watching. So I kinda mentioned some of the fun features that we have on the broadcast, and we are gonna do a poll. So we wanna know which US region that you are most interested in living in. So there's the Northeast, the South, the Midwest, and the West.

So we're gonna give everyone a minute here to put in their results. I love to see all the answers coming in.

Alright.

So Chad and I are actually located in the Midwest. So like I mentioned earlier, our office is here in Cincinnati. So we're in Ohio.

I personally have only ever lived in the Midwest, but I've gotten to travel a lot. And it's always cool to see all the differences between each reason. I'm actually seeing a lot of people going towards the northeast and the south.

Alright. We've got more coming in from the Midwest here.

And by no shock, it looks like, oh, it keeps changing between the northeast and the south. But I know a lot of you are interested in warm weather, so the south is usually, I feel like a popular region from our health care professionals. Oh, gonna get everyone one more minute to come in.

Chad, what's your favorite region in the United States?

I like the south. I do like the south. That's a good place to vacation too.

Yeah.

So Definitely easy for us Midwestern's because we're able to either fly or drive.

Not a bad commute.

Yeah. And if you drive, you get to go through all the wonderful mountains, which is nice. Good scenic trip too.

Yeah. Absolutely beautiful. Okay. So we are going to wrap up our poll here.

Alright. And then, Chad, I'm gonna hand it off to you so that way we can kinda dive into these regions.

Awesome. Okay. I'm so I'm really excited to talk about this because like she said, there's so many different things with the different regions. So before we dive into all the details for each reason region, it's important to know that job orders for these different areas can open and close regularly.

While we'll highlight each region to help you envision life there, this doesn't always mean there's current openings in every state. Our goal is to give you the knowledge and confidence to make an informed decisions so when the right opportunity becomes available, you're ready.

So now let's start with the Northeast. So that will include New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut.

Things that can help us drive the opportunities up in the Northeast is it's a region full of opportunity for nurses who are eager to grow, connect, and thrive. It offers access to some of the most respected hospitals and healthcare systems in the United States, many of which are known for innovation, patient centered care, and team collaborations.

For nurses who are ready to be part of a fast paced, high impact environments, the Northeast delivers both challenge and reward.

What to expect from the community and culture. This region is home to incredibly diverse cities and neighborhoods where international nurses often find vibrant cultural communities, whether it's access to Filipino grocery stores, Indian festivals or churches, and mosques that speak your language. You'll feel a sense of welcome and familiarity, in these places. Nurses in the northeast often form close bonds with their coworkers and local communities, building friendships and support systems that last for years.

What to expect kind of from a cost aspect from these areas?

Urban areas in the northeast are more densely populated, which means housing can be compact and competitive, but many international nurses choose to live just outside of major cities where neighborhoods are more affordable and still offer convenient access to transit, shopping, schools, and health care. It's all about finding the right balance between convenience, lifestyle, and comfort in these areas, and we're here to help you explore your options.

What kind of support networks are are nurses can expect? With long established immigrant communities across many cities and towns, the northeast is one of the most welcoming regions for globally trained nurses.

You'll find places to worship, shop, eat, and celebrate that reflect your cultural background. Community groups, international grocery stores, and local events make it easy to stay connected while building your new life.

And then from a lifestyle aspect, life in the northeast is dynamic, energetic, full of things to do. You can walk or take public transit and to restaurants, museums, or parks.

You'll find excellent schools, historic landmarks, weekend getaways, and international airports nearby. If you enjoy living in a culturally rich, connected environment, this region offers a lifestyle that's active, inspiring, and full of variety.

There's a lot happening up in the northeast. I've only gotten to go to gosh. I'm trying to think, like, New York, but I haven't really gotten to venture much much further. And you're starting to sell me I wanted to travel more up to the northeast.

It is a an amazing area, especially I've always wanted to go up there in the fall because of the the changing of the leaves for spring even. Yeah.

That that just offers amazing sights for sure.

I feel like that would be a pretty drive in the fall.

Absolutely.

So, yeah, the winters are colder, but the region is built for it.

Cities are well equipped for snow. Homes are properly insulated, and public services continue to run.

Most nurses adjust quickly, and many even come to enjoy the change in seasons, especially fall and spring, which are especially beautiful. I I truly can't you know, when it comes to seeing, like, trees covered in snow, that's just such a peaceful sight in my opinion.

Yeah. And you'll you'll definitely get it up there for sure.

If you're looking for cultural diversity, strong communities, and the energy of a connected, fast paced, or fast moving environment, the Northeast might be the right place for you.

Make sure to ask your idea if the northeast could be a good match for your goals, especially if you're looking for a place where you can grow personally and professionally while becoming part of a global community.

Yeah. Definitely. I know a lot of you voted in the poll for the Northeast. So if you're interested there, make sure to tell your current assignees so that way we can help find a perfect location for you to start your life in the US.

I know in the chat here, we're definitely seeing some comments about the south. I know Evans is really excited to hear about the south, and I think that might be next on our list. Right?

It is. So, moving to the south, this is obviously a great vacation spot and and also a great place to live as well. That will include states like Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, and Tennessee.

The South offers an inviting combination of warm climate, growing cities, and thriving health care systems. It's one of the most popular regions for international nurses to build long, successful careers.

Whether you're drawn to coastal towns, major metro areas, or quiet suburbs, the south provides a wide variety of placement options to suit different lifestyles and family needs. With steady pace and expanding health care networks, many nurses feel confident starting their US journey here.

The South is known for its strong sense of hospitality and close knit communities. Many international nurses feel welcomed quickly by neighbors, coworkers, and local organizations. From church gatherings and cultural festivals to neighborhood potlucks, people in the South often go out of the way to make newcomers feel at home. There they're vibrant immigrant communities across the region, including Philippine, Indian, African, and Caribbean populations that provide emotional support, cultural connection, and social belonging. I personally love driving anywhere down south. If you stop at a restaurant, you feel like you're gonna connect with any anybody working at a gas station. They're they're just gonna talk your your ear off for a while, but it's so nice.

Yeah. No. I completely agree. There's something about the south. They know their hospitality down there. I mean, the minute that you're in their area, they make you feel like that you're at home. So I think that is spot on.

Absolutely. Compared to other regions, the south also offers more space for your budget.

Many nurses find that housing is more affordable and that it's easier to find family friendly neighborhoods with yards, good schools, and nearby amenities. Even in larger cities like Houston or Charlotte, there are many suburban options that provide the balance of comfort, convenience, and community. Transportation is primarily by car, so many areas offer free or low cost parking and short commutes, which is awesome.

Yeah. Definitely a bonus.

For sure.

Because there's so much to do outside there. It's great to have, you know, affordable parking nearby to to actually go and drive and see all the great things.

Yeah.

Many southern cities and towns are proud of their diverse populations and actively support globally trained health care professionals. You'll find community groups, places of worship, specialty grocery stores, and online communities that make adjusting to the US life easier.

In some areas, international nurses make up a large portion of the hospital staff, so you're never alone in your journey.

The south offers a slower pace of life that many nurses and families appreciate. Outdoor living is possible year round with plenty of parks, walking trails, beaches, and backyard gatherings. Faith and family traditions are central in many of the communities, creating a strong sense of belonging, whether you enjoy a quiet weekend, nature filled evenings, or city fun with family friend vibes, you can find rhythm here.

Definitely. And Chad and I have even mentioned that it's a place that we in the Midwest frequently go on for vacation. So if you don't end up living somewhere in the south, you can definitely add it to your list of places to go visit either during the winter when you're trying to look for some warmth, or in the summer if you're looking for a nice place to take your family on vacation.

Absolutely. It's it's a great breakaway from the winter weather when you when you need it for sure. Yeah.

While some parts in the south are prone to hurricanes or seasonal storms, most communities and hospitals have strong safety protocols in place. Homes are built to handle the climate, and local teams are experienced in preparing for and managing weather related events.

Nurses tell us that once they settle in and understand the local systems, these risks feel manageable and are outweighed by many benefits of life in the south.

And and I can't stress it enough. They are well equipped for hurricanes down there. They surprise me every year because I've got grandparents that live down there, and it's just like, you know, you guys should come up up north, and they're just no. They're fine.

Yeah. Something that they that they go through, and it doesn't happen, you know, as often as maybe just like your typical rainstorm. But it always shocks me too how well prepared everyone is because I think, you know, the thought of that can be scary for us who don't necessarily have to go through that frequently or maybe ever. So they are definitely equipped to handle any sort of weather that affects them.

Absolutely. So if you're looking for warm weather, family friendly communities, and a welcoming place to start your US journey, the South definitely will be your perfect match. Ask your IDA if the South could be a great fit on your lifestyle preferences, comfort needs, and the type of community you're hoping to join.

Definitely.

Alright. Now a little bit homely here. We're gonna move to the Midwest. So this will include states like Ohio, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, Missouri, Wisconsin, and Minnesota.

The Midwest is often called the heartland of the US and for good reason. It's where many of our international nurses build strong, lasting careers and find a deep sense of community. Known for its balanced lifestyle, friendly pace, and high quality of life, the Midwest offers an ideal environment to grow professionally and build a stable life for yourself or your family. With a mix of large metro areas and welcoming small towns, there's something for everyone in the Midwest.

Yeah. It's definitely, I think, a good place to raise a family. And I know a lot of our health care professionals either are maybe wanting to start a family or they already have children, and so that's something that is at the forefront of their priorities when looking for a good place to live in the United States. Absolutely.

I I'm actually glad I live in the Midwest. I think it's it gives you a great balance of everything. And Yeah. I wouldn't live anywhere else, I don't think.

Yeah. It's definitely a good place to call home.

For sure. Midwestern communities are known for generally generally kind, respectful, and welcoming to newcomers. It's not uncommon for neighbors to introduce themselves, coworkers to offer help on your first day, or strangers to greet you with a smile. Many towns have thriving immigrant populations and active community organizations that support international health care professionals.

Nurses often say that they quickly feel part of the fabric of their communities here, and many choose to stay long after their contract ends.

And another really awesome part about the Midwest is it's the most of one of the most affordable regions in the US. With lower housing prices and a lower overall cost of living, many nurses are able to rent or purchase spacious homes often with yards and access to good schools without sacrificing proximity to work, stores, or services. Whether you're in a major city like Chicago or a smaller town in Ohio or Indiana, you'll find your budget goes further here.

Yeah. Definitely. I do feel like it is a very affordable, you know, region to to live in that allows you to go out and have fun.

Absolutely. It gives you a lot more, when it comes to stretching that budget, when it just comes to having a better house.

Plus, I I think there's so many places in the Midwest within driving distance of so many cool locations. Take a weekend trip somewhere, it's awesome.

Yeah.

And it's also great for, you know, the support systems it has here from religious centers and international groceries to cultural festivals and online communities. The Midwest is home to a growing number of globally trained nurses and professionals. You'll often find Filipino, Indian, and African communities with strong support systems in both urban and rural settings. Nurses here are embraced by their teams and communities with many sharing they feel truly at home in this region.

Life in the Midwest is centered around connection, comfort, and balance.

Many nurses appreciate the manageable traffic, peaceful neighborhoods, local farmers markets, seasonal events, and family focused environments. From summer lake days to cozy winter gatherings, the rhythm of life here supports both personal well-being and professional focus.

I will say the local farmer markets are always my favorite thing to hit up on the weekends in the summer. It's just nice to see the neighborhood kinda come together, and most of them happen every single weekend. So make sure to you know, whenever you find out where you're living, look up all the different events that go on during the weekend, in your area. Because other than the local farmer's markets and different seasonal events, there's usually, like, free concerts. You know, if you have kids, there could be fun events for your kids. So there's always a lot happening.

And then especially what was it with the fall, you have different fall festivals. Every weekend, I feel like in Ohio, there's a festival different festival, completely different than the ones from the previous weekend somewhere else. That's Yes. That's also super fun.

Yeah. So you can make a bucket list and check out all of them if you really wanted to.

Absolutely.

And and, of course, with winters in the Midwest, they can be snowy and cold, but cities and towns are well prepared.

Homes are built for the climate. Public service services will continue to run, and hospitals remain fully operational. Many nurses find that with proper clothing and support from their communities, winter becomes a cozy, even joyful season. The beauty of fall and spring adds to the charm of this region.

Yes. Definitely a place where you get all four seasons.

Yes. You will not miss out if if you are somebody that wants to see a difference in in in climate. Midwest is perfect for you.

Yeah.

If you're looking for a welcoming, affordable, and family friendly place to grow, both personally and professionally, the Midwest may be perfect region to call home.

Talk to your IDA about opportunities in the Midwest if you're looking for stability, connection, and a region where international nurses are embraced and supported at every step.

So now it's also another exciting location. I feel like all all the locations are really exciting, but now we're gonna go to the west, which would include California, Arizona, Colorado, Washington, Oregon, Nevada, and Utah.

The western US is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, active lifestyles, and innovative spirit. It's a region where personal freedom, cultural diversity, and forward thinking health care intersect.

International nurses placed here often experience a strong sense of inclusion, vibrant community life, and access to some of the most progressive and well resourced health care systems in the country.

For those who value flexibility, outdoor living, and cultural variety, the West offers a truly dynamic place to begin your US journey.

The west is the one of the most diverse culturally rich regions in the US. You'll find a strong Filipino, Indian, African, and Caribbean, and Latin American communities, especially in California, Washington, and Nevada. Many nurses say they feel at home almost immediately, surrounded by familiar languages, places of worship, cuisine, and cultural celebrations.

Community organizations, cultural festivals, and professional support networks are easy to find, making it simple to build both friendships and belonging.

As for cost, major metro areas like San Francisco, Seattle, Los Angeles will have a higher housing cost, but many nurses live in surrounding suburbs or smaller towns that offer more affordable options while keeping them close to work and amenities. Public transit, carpooling, and biking are common, and many facilities are located in areas where commuting is manageable with some planning. Our team is here to help you consider trade offs and make informed choices that align with your lifestyle and priorities.

From Los Angeles to Phoenix to Portland, the West's long been home to immigrant communities who actively support one another. You'll find mentorship opportunities, nurse led community groups, cultural organizations, and events designed to help connect and thrive. These networks are especially helpful during your first months in the US, giving you access to advice, friendship, and emotional support.

Yes. Definitely a big factor to have, you know, the support. And I know a lot of our health care professionals also have families out west. At least that's what I hear whenever I, you know, get the pleasure to talk with them on the phone. And so I know support is a really big thing, but if you end up moving to an area where maybe you don't have family, like Chad said, these networks are especially helpful in helping you with that transition and making it a little bit easier.

Absolutely.

And and when it comes to the west, it is ideal for nurses who enjoy nature, wellness, and balance. Whether you love hiking, skiing, surfing, or simply relaxing outdoors, this region encourages healthy, active living.

Cities often have strong environmental values, fresh food markets, and green spaces. The lifestyle is often more casual and flexible with focus on well-being both inside and outside of work.

Some western areas experience challenges like wildfires, earthquakes, or drought, but cities and health care facilities are highly prepared with safe safety systems and emergency protocols. Nurses quickly learn how to stay informed and protected, and these risks do not interfere with daily life. For most residents, many find that their quality of life, cultural support, and personal freedom make these risks manageable and worthwhile.

Definitely. And if you're thinking of questions about a specific area you wanna live in, those are always good questions that you could always ask during an interview, with your facility. You know, they're the ones that live and work there currently, so they can always maybe give you some tips or advice if you end up at that facility in that area.

Yeah. If you like outdoors, I mean, the west is amazing because it kinda offers a little bit of everything, big forest, hiking, and and the red rocks, so many things, city life.

It it's really awesome out in the West.

And if you're looking for diversity, progressive values, and access to nature and innovation, the West might be your ideal place to launch your American journey. Ask your ID IDA about placements in the west if you're drawn to vibrant cities, multicultural communities, and a lifestyle that blends career growth and personal wellness.

So that really concludes going over the four regions. So let's go through some tips to help your research and choose the right place for you or your family.

The great thing is there's so many online tools like niche dot com, Zillow, and best places dot net to explore cost of living, schools, housing, and crime rates. You can also look at Google Maps and Street View to get a feel for the neighborhoods, hospitals, and amenities.

You can join many community groups on Facebook or Reddit to hear from people who live there. You can also ask your health care cell support team. We or they are happy to help share information about the United States with you and what you've seen other nurses enjoy in the areas.

Always consider your personal needs. Do you prefer warm or cold weather? Do you wanna be near airports, schools, or religious communities? Are you relocating with children?

You know, these are really great things to consider. This is your life outside of work, and it should reflect your values, comfort, and lifestyle goals.

So to close out today's segments, here's a couple takeaways.

Each US region offers unique strengths, whether it's cultural diversity in the northeast, community comfort in the Midwest, warm hospitality in the south, or vibrant lifestyles in the west. There's a place that can match your values and visions for life in the US.

Where you live shapes your experience. From climate and cultural to housing and transportation, understanding each region helps you make informed decisions that support both your personal happiness and your professional success.

You do not have to navigate this alone. Use trusted tools, talk to your health care self support team, and take time to explore what matters most to you and your family. The right fit is out there, and we're here to help you find it.