35+ Different Nursing Jobs for High Pay, Low Stress & Travel

Beyond the Bedside: Exploring 35+ Different Nursing Jobs for Every Lifestyle & Salary Goal

Introduction

When people think of nursing, they often picture someone in scrubs working long hours at the bedside in a hospital. However, there are many different nursing jobs that don’t fit this stereotype. Whether you're looking for a high-paying role, a low-stress job, or a unique career, nursing has many options to fit your needs. This article will help you understand the variety of different nursing jobs available today.

In this guide, we will explore 35+ different nursing jobs that cater to every type of lifestyle and salary goal. From jobs with high income and independence to roles where you can work from home or travel, we’ll help you find the best nursing job for your situation.

What Are the Different Nursing Jobs and Which One Is Right for You?

There are many types of nursing jobs beyond the traditional hospital setting. The demand for healthcare professionals is growing, and nurses can now work in areas like technology, law, business, and education. Let's explore some of the best different nursing jobs and help you find the right fit for you.

1. The Career Climber: High Salary, Autonomy, and Leadership

If you want a high salary, independence, and leadership opportunities, these nursing jobs may be perfect for you.

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

Salary: $195k - $235k

Education: Doctorate required by 2025

Role: CRNAs give anesthesia to patients during surgery. They have the most autonomy and often work on their own, making decisions about anesthesia care.

Best For: Nurses who love pharmacology, enjoy working independently, and want a high-paying job.

Nurse Practitioner (NP)

Salary: $120k+

Specialties: Family Practice, Psychiatric, Neonatal, Adult-Gerontology

Role: Nurse practitioners are similar to doctors. They diagnose patients, prescribe medicine, and provide care in various specialties.

Best For: Nurses looking for a role with more independence and higher pay.

Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM)

Salary: $107k - $132k

Role: CNMs provide care for women during pregnancy, childbirth, and after delivery. They also offer gynecological services.

Best For: Nurses passionate about women's health and want to work with expecting mothers.

Nursing Administrator / Director of Nursing

Salary: $97k - $117k+

Role: These nurses manage healthcare teams, budgets, and help make decisions about hospital policies and procedures.

Best For: Nurses who want to work in leadership, shaping healthcare policies and managing healthcare teams.

2. The Switcher: Low Stress, 9-to-5 Schedule, Remote/Desk Work

If you’re feeling burned out from working at the hospital or want more time for yourself, these roles offer lower stress, 9-to-5 schedules, and sometimes the option to work from home.

Informatics Nurse

Salary: $85k - $98k

Role: Informatics nurses use technology to manage patient data, improve Electronic Health Records (EHR), and work on improving healthcare systems.

Why It Works: This job is desk-based, so there is no direct patient care and the stress is lower. It’s a good option for those interested in technology.

Aesthetic / Plastic Surgery Nurse

Salary: $89k - $93k

Role: These nurses assist with cosmetic surgeries like Botox, fillers, and laser treatments. They also help with the recovery process.

Why It Works: This job has regular hours, and the work environment is controlled and calm compared to a hospital.

School Nurse

Salary: $62k - $65k

Role: School nurses take care of children in schools, handle minor injuries, and keep track of immunization records.

Why It Works: You get weekends, holidays, and summers off, with less stress compared to hospital work.

Occupational Health Nurse

Salary: $73k

Role: Occupational health nurses focus on helping workers stay healthy. They treat workplace injuries, help with safety training, and conduct health checks.

Why It Works: This is a 9-to-5 job, usually in a corporate environment, which means fewer emergencies and no night shifts.

Nurse Case Manager / Utilization Review Nurse

Salary: $88k

Role: Nurse case managers help plan long-term care for patients, manage insurance, and assist with discharge planning from the hospital.

Why It Works: These roles are often desk-based, with some remote work opportunities, and there is little to no direct patient care.

3. The Explorer: Adrenaline, Travel, and Unique Environments

If you're looking for a career that offers excitement, travel, and unique experiences, these nursing jobs can give you what you need.

Forensic Nurse

Salary: $64k

Role: Forensic nurses work with law enforcement to treat victims of violence, collect evidence, and sometimes testify in court.

Best For: Nurses who are interested in working with the law and healthcare, and enjoy the excitement of forensic work.

Flight Nurse

Salary: Competitive, higher than ICU

Role: Flight nurses provide critical care to patients being transported by helicopter or airplane. They must work in challenging conditions and respond quickly to emergencies.

Best For: Nurses who thrive under pressure and enjoy adventure.

Travel Nurse

Salary: $100k+

Role: Travel nurses take temporary jobs at hospitals in various locations, helping to fill staffing shortages. This is a great option for nurses who like to travel and explore new places.

Best For: Nurses who enjoy seeing new places and don’t mind short-term assignments.

Emergency Room (ER) Nurse

Salary: $66k - $80k

Role: ER nurses work in fast-paced environments, treating patients with urgent medical conditions. They have to think quickly and work efficiently under pressure.

Best For: Nurses who enjoy variety and excitement and can handle high-stress situations.

4. Entry-Level & Fundamentals: Starting Your Nursing Career

If you’re just starting your nursing career, here are some of the basic nursing roles that can help you get your foot in the door.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Salary: $39k

Role: CNAs help patients with basic needs, such as bathing, dressing, and monitoring vital signs. They are often the first point of contact for patients.

Best For: Those just starting out in nursing who want to gain hands-on experience.

Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse (LPN/LVN)

Salary: $62k

Role: LPNs and LVNs provide basic care under the supervision of RNs. They often take care of tasks like giving medications and checking patient vital signs.

Best For: Nurses who want to start working quickly, with the option to continue their education for advancement.

Registered Nurse (RN)

Salary: $77k - $93k

Role: RNs are responsible for patient care, administering medications, and managing patient treatment plans. RNs work in a variety of healthcare settings, from hospitals to schools and clinics.

Best For: Nurses who want to be licensed and have the option to work in many different areas of healthcare.

5. Comparing Nursing Roles at a Glance

Role	Salary	Education	Stress Level	Best For
CRNA	$200k+	Doctorate	High	High earners, autonomy
Informatics Nurse	$90k+	BSN/MSN	Low	Tech lovers, low-stress desk job
School Nurse	$65k	BSN	Low	Work-life balance, no weekend shifts
Travel Nurse	$100k+	ADN/BSN	High/Medium	Adventurous, loves to travel
ER Nurse	$80k	ADN/BSN	High	Fast thinkers, chaos lovers

How to Choose the Right Nursing Job for You

Choosing the right nursing job depends on your career goals. Ask yourself the following questions:

• Do I want patient contact? Some roles, like informatics nurse or school nurse, involve little to no patient care.
• Is salary my top priority? If you're looking for a high income, consider becoming a CRNA or Nurse Practitioner.
• Do I prefer a 9-to-5 schedule or a more flexible one? If you want a steady routine, school nursing or case management might be right for you.
• Am I willing to work under pressure or in high-stress environments? ER, flight, and forensic nurses often face intense situations.

Conclusion

Nursing offers a wide array of career options beyond the traditional hospital setting. Whether you’re interested in high-paying roles, low-stress positions, or exciting adventures, there's a nursing job that fits your lifestyle. By carefully considering your salary goals, work-life balance, and personal interests, you can find the perfect nursing job to suit your career aspirations.