If you’re a nurse considering a move to Houston, Texas, you’re in for an exciting adventure. Houston and the surrounding neighborhood offer plenty of opportunities for healthcare professionals and their families. You will never be bored in Houston. There is always something to do. To help you make a smooth transition, we’ve compiled a list of 10 essential tips for nurse relocating to Houston.
1. Research the healthcare market – essential tips for a nurse relocating to Houston
As a nurse, before making your move, take the time to research the healthcare market in Houston. Houston is home to renowned medical centers and hospitals, such as the Texas Medical Center, which is the largest medical complex in the world. Familiarize yourself with the major hospitals, healthcare systems, and specialty facilities in the area. Understanding the demand and the types of nursing positions available will help you focus your job search effectively. A nurse can effectively use online search tools like Indeed, DaVita careers, Houston Methodist, Memorial Hermann, and have you heard of HCA Healthcare? There are too many hospitals and healthcare facilities to choose from.
2. Obtain nurse licensure – essential tips for a nurse relocating to Houston
To work as a nurse in Houston, you’ll need to obtain a Texas nursing license. Start the licensure process early to avoid any delays in starting your new job. The Texas Board of Nursing is the regulatory authority responsible for issuing licenses. Visit their website for detailed information and requirements to ensure you meet all the necessary criteria for taking a nurse licensure.
3. Explore neighborhoods – essential tips for a nurse relocating to Houston
Houston is a one-of-a-kind city where a number of neighborhoods are booming. Single-family residential homes and multi-family residential communities, even active 55+ neighborhoods are sprouting. You can never go wrong with Houston because it is also close to the widely acclaimed cities e.g., The Woodlands, Spring, Tomball, Porter, and Katy. A nurse in Houston can never go wrong because there are a lot of opportunities that will cater to healthcare professionals. Doctors, pharmacists, technicians, EMTs, physical therapists, surgical technicians, and all other medical professionals have a spot here. You must consider commute time, safety, proximity to job location, and cost of living when choosing a place to call your home. All of these are a plus when you call this neighborhood your home. Popular neighborhoods for healthcare professionals include the Texas Medical Center area, Midtown, Montrose, and Heights. Diversity is at its best because you can explore the cultures of different ethnicities through the groceries, restaurants with tons of buffet options, theatre, museums, and most of all, great school districts which promote music and arts.
4. Connect with local nursing associations – essential tips for a nurse relocating to Houston
A nurse joining local nursing associations can be highly beneficial for networking and professional development. Organizations like the Texas Nurses Association and the Houston Area Nurse Practitioners offer resources, support, and networking opportunities for nurses in Houston. By connecting with fellow nurses, you can gain insights into the local healthcare scene, learn about job opportunities, and stay updated on industry news. American Nephrology Nurses Association (ANNA) is also another organization that provides networking through practice, management, and leadership conferences. It helps the nephrology nurse be up to date on the latest trends in kidney care.
5. Consider traffic and commute times – essential tips for a nurse relocating to Houston
Houston is known for its traffic, so it’s important to factor in commute times when planning your daily routine. The city’s extensive highway system can experience heavy congestion during peak hours. Consider living close to your workplace or exploring public transportation options, such as the METRO bus and rail system, to minimize the stress of long commutes. But if you plan wisely travel time should not be an issue because there are multiple routes to get to your destination. Every area has a job opportunity where you can live nearby. As a nurse, one can work any shift – morning, afternoon, or night, so depending on your schedule, planning is important to avoid traffic.
6. Embrace the local culture – essential tips for a nurse relocating to Houston
Take advantage of Houston’s numerous museums, theaters, and festivals to immerse yourself in the local culture. The Museum District is home to world-class museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, and the Children’s Museum of Houston. Exploring Houston’s culinary scene is also a must-do, as the city offers a wide range of international cuisines – Filipino, South American, Cuban, Afghan, Malaysian, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Vietnamese, Ethiopian, Indian, Mexican…you name it, it’s all in this city. A nurse, their fellow nurses, and their families can indeed enjoy what Houston has to offer.
7. Prepare for the climate – essential tips for a nurse relocating to Houston
Houston has a warm and humid climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Be prepared for the heat by dressing in lightweight, breathable clothing and staying hydrated. Summers can be particularly hot, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C). Additionally, don’t forget to pack sunscreen and bug repellent to protect yourself from the sun and mosquitoes when spending time outdoors. But why fear, majority of the homes here have centralized air-conditioning for the hot weather and centralized heating for the cold weather. You can never go wrong. You are pretty much covered. As a nurse, would you believe that using scrubs has been my go-to even at home because the outfit feels lightweight, and I have my own separate scrub set at home and at work?
8. Network with colleagues – essential tips for a nurse relocating to Houston
Building a professional nurse network is crucial for career growth. Attend nursing conferences, seminars, and local events to connect with other healthcare nurse professionals in Houston. The city hosts various healthcare-focused nurse events, including the Annual Texas Nurses Association Conference and local chapter meetings. Networking can open doors to new job opportunities, provide mentorship, and create a support system in your new city.
9. Take advantage of continuing education opportunities – essential tips for a nurse relocating to Houston
Houston has a strong healthcare education system, offering a variety of continuing education opportunities for a nurse. Explore local universities, community colleges, and online platforms that offer courses and certifications to enhance your skills and advance your career. Institutions like the University of Houston, Houston Community College, and Lone Star College provide nursing education programs and resources for professional development. Scholarships are also available for any prospective student thinking of going into healthcare. Lone Star College is one of the most sought-after community colleges geared toward nursing. It is a very competitive school where only the best students get in.
10. Enjoy outdoor activities – essential tips for a nurse relocating to Houston
Houston boasts an abundance of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. Visit the Houston Zoo, which houses over 6,000 animals from around the world. Explore the parks and gardens scattered throughout the city, such as Hermann Park, Memorial Park, and Discovery Green. For a scenic experience, take a stroll or go biking along Buffalo Bayou Park, a 160-acre green space that stretches along the bayou. You can explore the bayou on foot, or by renting bicycles, kayaks, or canoes. What an enjoyable way to relax and enjoy yourself without breaking your bank account. Engaging in outdoor activities will help you relax, recharge, and appreciate the beauty of your new surroundings.
Relocating to Houston as a nurse can be an exciting and rewarding experience. By following these 10 essential tips, you’ll be well-prepared to embrace your new role and enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer. Remember, as a nurse in Houston, your skills and dedication are highly valued. Best of luck with your relocation and your nursing career in the heart of Texas! Reach out to our Houston Suburb Group and our expert REALTOR® is here if you need help with any nursing opportunities, neighborhood tips, and EXPERIENCE LIVING IN HOUSTON, TEXAS!
Jeanette San Luis is a blog contributor. A double degree major in BS Chemical Engineering and BS Nursing, graduated Magna Cum Laude and Summa Cum Laude respectively. She has won numerous accolades and was named one of Houston Chronicles TOP 150 Outstanding Nurses in 2016 and 2017.
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