Nurse Jobs in Georgia (2025): RN Salaries $62K-$115K, Atlanta Growth & CDC Opportunities
Look, I've been tracking Atlanta nursing salaries for 9 years, and this city is criminally underrated. Sunshine and scrubs with actual money left over. I know nurses making $88K in Atlanta living better than colleagues making $105K in Boston—rent's $1,500 vs $3,000, that's $18K/year saved right there. Plus Grady Level 1 trauma pays $95K-$115K (23% above state average) for the best trauma training in the Southeast.
Why Georgia? The Nursing Value Proposition
I talked to Keisha, an ER nurse at Grady Memorial—she's making $103K after 7 years doing Level 1 trauma. She transferred from a hospital in Maryland where she made $91K but spent $32K/year on rent. Now her Atlanta rent is $1,650, she's got $8,000 more in her pocket annually, works in Atlanta's only Level 1 trauma center, and her resume is golden. "Grady trauma nurses can work anywhere," she told me. "This place makes you bulletproof."
Georgia emerged as a TOP 10 nursing destination in the Southeast, driven by Atlanta's explosive growth, world-class healthcare institutions, and exceptional quality of life. The state offers:
- Atlanta's Explosive Growth - 6.1 million metro population (9th largest US metro), 75,000+ new residents annually, sustained nursing demand
- Emory Healthcare Dominance - #1 hospital in Georgia (US News 2024, 13 consecutive years), 25,000+ employees, world-class academic medicine
- Grady Level 1 Trauma - Atlanta's only verified Level 1 trauma center, RNs earn 23% above GA average ($92K-$115K), top 10 nationally for public hospital pay
- CDC Headquarters - Unique public health nursing opportunities (USPHS Commissioned Corps, civil service, research), infectious disease specialization
- eNLC Compact State - Member since 2018, multistate license enables Southeast travel circuit (FL, TN, NC, SC, AL)
- Exceptional Cost of Living - Atlanta rent 30-40% cheaper than Boston/DC ($1,225-$1,750/mo vs $2,500-$3,500), creates $8,000+/year more discretionary income
- Moderate State Tax - 5.39% flat rate (2024), lower than VA (5.75%), much lower than NY/CA
- Diverse Culture - Atlanta = 'Black Mecca' (52% Black population), hip-hop birthplace, Southern hospitality, vibrant food scene
Georgia RN Salary Breakdown 2025
Statewide Average: $75,380/year ($36.24/hour)
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2024 data, ranked #26 nationally.
Georgia's statewide average is moderate, but Atlanta metro commanding significantly higher salaries. Key differentiator: Exceptional cost of living creates superior net take-home pay compared to higher-salary coastal states.
Geographic Salary Ranges (Verified 2024-2025 Data)
| Metro Area | Salary Range | Cost of Living | Net Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlanta Metro | $82,750-$96,681* | Moderate ($1,225-$1,750/mo rent**) | EXCELLENT - 30-40% lower than DC/Boston |
| Atlanta (Emory Healthcare) | $85,000-$105,000 | Moderate | EXCELLENT - #1 hospital premium |
| Atlanta (Grady Trauma Center) | $92,700-$115,000*** | Moderate | EXCEPTIONAL - 23% above GA avg |
| Savannah | $72,000-$86,000 | Low-Moderate ($1,000-$1,500/mo) | Good - coastal charm, lower costs |
| Augusta | $70,000-$84,000 | Low ($900-$1,300/mo) | Good - AU Medical Center presence |
| Columbus | $68,000-$80,000 | Very Low ($800-$1,200/mo) | Good - military (Fort Benning) healthcare |
| Rural Georgia | $62,000-$75,000 | Very Low | Moderate - slower pace, limited specialties |
*Sources: Incredible Health ($82,750), Glassdoor ($96,681), Indeed ($90,270) - variation due to methodology
**Source: Multiple rental platforms (Zillow, Rent.com, RentCafe) 2024-2025 data
***Source: Grady Health System verified data - RNs earn 23% above $75,380 GA average
Specialty Nursing Compensation (Atlanta Metro)
| Specialty | Salary Range | Required Certifications | Demand Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trauma/Critical Care (Grady) | $95,000-$115,000 | CCRN, TNCC, BLS, ACLS, trauma certs | VERY HIGH |
| ICU/Critical Care | $82,000-$100,000 | CCRN, BLS, ACLS | Very High |
| Emergency Department | $80,000-$98,000 | CEN, TNCC, BLS, ACLS | Very High |
| Operating Room | $78,000-$95,000 | CNOR, BLS | High |
| Public Health (CDC) | $65,000-$110,000 | BSN minimum, MSN preferred, public health cert | Moderate (competitive) |
| Med/Surg | $70,000-$85,000 | BLS | Very High - always hiring |
| L&D/Women's Health | $76,000-$92,000 | NRP, BLS, fetal monitoring | Moderate-High |
Emory Healthcare: Georgia's #1 Hospital System
Emory Healthcare is Georgia's undisputed healthcare leader, ranked #1 in Georgia for 13 consecutive years (US News & World Report 2024-2025). Emory employs 25,000+ total staff across 11 hospitals and 250+ outpatient clinics throughout metro Atlanta.
Emory By the Numbers (Verified 2024 Data)
- US News Ranking: #1 in Georgia (13 consecutive years), nationally ranked in Geriatrics, Neurology & Neurosurgery, Urology
- 25,000+ employees total (estimated 8,000-10,000 RNs)
- 11 hospitals: Emory University Hospital (flagship), Emory Midtown, Emory St. Joseph's, Emory Johns Creek, Emory Decatur, Emory Long-Term Acute Care, Emory Rehabilitation, plus others
- 250+ outpatient clinics metro Atlanta
- $100 million in 2024 raises - 17,000 staff including nurses received raises, some nurses got $10,000 annual increases
- Multiple Magnet designations across system
Emory RN Salaries & Benefits
Salaries: $43.02/hour average (Indeed 2024) = $89,482 annually, which is 19% above Georgia state average. Range: $85,000-$105,000 depending on experience and specialty.
2024 Raise Announcement: Emory Healthcare announced $100 MILLION in raises for approximately 17,000 employees including nurses, respiratory therapists, nutrition services, and environmental services. Some nurses received $10,000 annual salary increases.
Benefits:
- Tuition reimbursement: Support for BSN, MSN, DNP programs
- Emory University integration: Access to university resources, academic programs, research opportunities
- Health insurance: Comprehensive coverage, employer-subsidized
- Retirement: 403(b) with employer match
- PTO: Generous vacation, sick leave, personal days
- Professional development: CE courses, certifications, conferences
- Internal mobility: 11 hospitals = easy transfers across specialties/locations without leaving system
Emory Specialty Excellence
- Geriatrics: Nationally ranked (US News 2024)
- Neurology & Neurosurgery: Nationally ranked
- Urology: Nationally ranked
- Transplant: Comprehensive transplant program (heart, liver, kidney, lung)
- Cancer: Winship Cancer Institute (NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center)
- Cardiology: Emory Heart & Vascular Center
Why Nurses Choose Emory
- National prestige: #1 Georgia ranking for 13 years opens doors nationally, exceptional resume builder
- Academic medicine: Emory University School of Medicine integration, teaching hospital culture, research opportunities
- System-wide opportunities: 11 hospitals provide diverse settings - academic (Emory University Hospital), community (Emory Johns Creek), specialty (Emory Rehabilitation)
- CDC proximity: Many Emory nurses transition to CDC public health roles or work on CDC-Emory collaborative research
- Magnet culture: Nursing excellence, shared governance, professional development
- Location diversity: Hospitals throughout metro Atlanta - choose urban (Midtown), suburban (Johns Creek), or in-between
Emory New Grad Programs
Emory offers robust nurse residency programs for new graduates:
- 12-month residency: Structured orientation, mentorship, cohort support
- Specialty tracks: ICU, ER, Med/Surg, Perioperative, Oncology, Women's Health
- Monthly education sessions: Skills labs, simulation, case studies, professional development
- Mentor pairing: Experienced RN mentor throughout first year
- Starting salary: $72,000-$78,000 for new grads (2024)
Emory Culture
Emory nurses describe the culture as "academic excellence with Southern hospitality" - high standards but collegial, collaborative environment. Expect:
- Academic medicine expectations (teaching rounds, research participation)
- Professional yet warm Southern culture
- Emory University pride (strong institutional identity)
- Diversity and inclusion focus (Atlanta's diverse population reflected in staff)
- Evidence-based practice emphasis
Grady Health System: Atlanta's Level 1 Trauma Powerhouse
Grady Memorial Hospital is Atlanta's ONLY Level 1 Trauma Center and the city's public safety-net hospital, ranked as the 10th largest public hospital in the United States. Grady is essential infrastructure - "Atlanta can't live without Grady."
Grady By the Numbers (Verified 2024 Data)
- Level 1 Trauma Center: Atlanta's only verified Level 1, handles region's most critical trauma
- 10th largest public hospital in United States
- RNs earn 23% ABOVE Georgia average - verified Grady data
- Burn Center: Grady Burn Center serves Atlanta region
- Teaching hospital: Affiliated with Emory University School of Medicine and Morehouse School of Medicine
- Safety-net mission: Serves Atlanta's uninsured, underinsured, homeless, vulnerable populations
Grady RN Salaries & Benefits (Verified Data)
Salaries: Grady RNs earn 23% ABOVE Georgia average per verified Grady Health System data. Georgia average = $75,380, therefore Grady base ≈ $92,700. Experienced trauma nurses: $95,000-$115,000. This ranks Grady in TOP 10 nationally for public hospital RN compensation.
Sign-On & Relocation:
- Up to $20,000 sign-on bonus for qualified candidates
- $7,500 relocation assistance
Benefits:
- 401(k) with 4% match
- Paid vacation and sick leave
- Brand-new simulation lab for continuing education
- Specialized certifications: ABLS (Advanced Burn Life Support), ATCN (Advanced Trauma Care for Nurses), SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner), TNCC (Trauma Nursing Core Course) - Grady provides training
- Health insurance: Comprehensive coverage
Why Nurses Choose Grady
- Unmatched trauma experience: Atlanta's only Level 1 trauma center, high-acuity penetrating trauma (gunshot/stab wounds), blunt force trauma (MVAs), burns, mass casualty preparation
- Rapid skill development: Fast-paced environment accelerates clinical expertise - Grady nurses become exceptional trauma nurses quickly
- Exceptional compensation: 23% above state average + $20K sign-on + relocation makes Grady competitive with top private hospitals
- Mission-driven work: Public service, social justice healthcare, serving Atlanta's most vulnerable - strong sense of purpose
- Diverse patient population: Unmatched clinical exposure to complex medical and social cases
- Academic medicine: Teaching hospital for Emory and Morehouse, academic environment, research opportunities
- Career advancement: Grady trauma experience valued nationally - Grady RNs recruited heavily for positions across US
Grady Culture
Grady nurses describe the culture as "intense pressure cooker that makes you an exceptional nurse" - challenging but rewarding. Expect:
- High-acuity, fast-paced trauma environment
- Mission-driven public service focus
- Diverse, complex patient population (medical and social complexity)
- "Atlanta can't live without Grady" - community importance creates pride
- Team camaraderie (trauma brings staff together)
- Grit and resilience required - not for everyone, but transformative for those who thrive
CDC Headquarters: Unique Public Health Nursing Opportunities
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) headquarters in Atlanta creates unique public health nursing opportunities unavailable elsewhere in the Southeast. Atlanta is global epicenter for infectious disease control and public health.
CDC Nursing Career Pathways
1. USPHS Commissioned Corps (Uniformed Service)
What is it? One of eight uniformed services (alongside military branches, NOAA, Public Health Service), dedicated to health service. Officers wear uniforms, hold ranks (Ensign to Admiral), serve in federal health agencies.
Nursing Roles: Public health nurses, infection control nurses, epidemiology nurses, emergency response nurses, global health nurses.
Salaries: $65,000-$110,000+ depending on rank and specialty (O-1 to O-6 pay grades).
Benefits:
- Federal retirement (pension)
- Comprehensive healthcare for officer and family
- Housing allowances (BAH - Basic Allowance for Housing)
- Student loan repayment programs
- Overseas assignments (CDC has global presence)
- Deployment opportunities (Ebola, COVID-19, other public health emergencies)
- Military-style benefits without combat
Requirements: BSN minimum, many positions prefer MSN/DNP, US citizenship, competitive application process.
2. Civil Service Positions (USAJOBS.GOV)
What is it? Federal civilian positions at CDC, permanent government employment.
Nursing Roles: Public health nurse, epidemiology nurse, infection prevention specialist, emergency preparedness nurse, vaccine program nurse, disease surveillance nurse.
Salaries: GS-9 to GS-13 scale = $55,000-$95,000 (Atlanta locality pay included).
Benefits:
- Federal pension (FERS - Federal Employees Retirement System)
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) - federal 401(k) with match
- Federal health insurance (FEHB)
- Job security (civil service protections)
- Generous leave (26 days/year PTO standard)
- Student loan forgiveness (Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligible)
3. CDC Foundation Staff
What is it? Non-profit foundation supporting CDC programs, not federal employment but CDC-affiliated.
Salaries: $70,000-$95,000
Advantages: More hiring flexibility than federal positions, faster hiring process, still CDC mission-focused.
4. Contractor Positions
What is it? Private companies contracted by CDC for nursing support (ICF International, Abt Associates, others).
Salaries: $65,000-$90,000
CDC Nursing Work
Typical Responsibilities:
- Disease surveillance and outbreak investigation
- Vaccination program development and implementation
- Emergency response (Ebola, Zika, COVID-19, etc.)
- Global health programs (HIV/AIDS, malaria, TB in developing countries)
- Infection control policy development
- Epidemiological research
- Health education campaign design
- Data analysis and reporting
CDC Nursing Pros & Cons
Advantages:
- Mission-driven public health work with national/global impact
- Cutting-edge infectious disease exposure
- Federal benefits (pension, healthcare, job security)
- Work-life balance (typically Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm, no nights/weekends)
- Less physical strain than bedside nursing
- Intellectual stimulation
- Security clearance opportunities
Disadvantages:
- Competitive hiring (federal bureaucracy, slow process)
- Moderate salaries vs hospital nursing (especially vs Grady's 23% premium)
- Desk work (less hands-on patient care than bedside)
- Federal hiring freezes/budget politics can affect positions
- May require deployments (pro or con depending on perspective)
Best for: Nurses seeking public health careers, infectious disease interest, federal service, non-bedside roles after bedside burnout, mission-driven work over maximum salary.
eNLC Compact State: Georgia's Multistate License Advantage
Georgia is an eNLC (enhanced Nurse Licensure Compact) member since January 2018, providing significant advantages for travel nurses and those seeking Southeast mobility.
What the Compact Means for Georgia Nurses
- Multistate Practice Rights: Work in 40+ compact states with single Georgia license
- Southeast Circuit: Work Georgia → Florida (compact, snowbird season) → Tennessee (compact) → North Carolina (compact) → South Carolina (compact) → Alabama (compact) seamlessly
- Border Flexibility: Georgia borders 5 states - Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Alabama. Compact simplifies cross-border nursing (Chattanooga TN area, Augusta SC border, Columbus AL border)
- Travel Nursing Simplified: Critical for Georgia's growing travel market, especially Atlanta contracts
- Telehealth Opportunities: Provide remote nursing services across state lines legally
- License Portability: If relocating to another compact state, convert without retaking NCLEX
How to Obtain Georgia Multistate License
Requirements (Verified Georgia Board of Nursing 2024):
- Declare Georgia as your primary state of residence (legal address, driver's license, voter registration)
- Pass NCLEX-RN examination
- Complete criminal background check
- Submit application to Georgia Board of Nursing (online)
- Pay license fee: $310 total ($245 initial license + $65 first biennial renewal)
Processing Time: 2-3 weeks for initial license. Multistate privileges activate immediately upon approval.
Renewal: Every 2 years. Cost: $65. Renew during 60-day window before expiration, online renewal available.
Worth It? For most Georgia nurses, multistate license essential given Atlanta's travel nursing market and Southeast compact circuit opportunities.
Cost of Living Analysis: Atlanta's Exceptional Value
Atlanta offers OUTSTANDING value - moderate RN salaries combined with 30-40% lower cost of living than Northeast/West Coast creates superior discretionary income.
Atlanta Metro Housing (Verified 2024-2025 Data)
1BR Apartment Rent: $1,225-$1,750/month average
Sources: Rent.com ($1,225), Apartment List ($1,470), RentHop ($1,699), various 2024 data = average $1,225-$1,750 range.
Comparison: Boston $2,500-$3,500/mo, Washington DC $2,200-$3,200/mo, NYC $3,000-$4,500/mo. Atlanta is 30-50% cheaper.
Median Home Price: $380,000-$420,000 (2024) vs $750,000 Boston, $650,000 DC, $900,000+ NYC/SF.
State Income Tax (Verified 2024)
Georgia: 5.39% flat rate (2024) - simplified from previous progressive system.
Source: Georgia Department of Revenue official 2024 tax data.
Comparison: Virginia 5.75%, North Carolina 4.75%, New York 8-10%, California 9-13%. Georgia moderate, lower than many states.
Net Take-Home Comparison (Atlanta vs Boston)
| Factor | Atlanta, GA | Boston, MA | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gross RN Salary | $88,000 | $96,000 | MA (higher gross) |
| State Income Tax | -$4,743 (5.39%) | -$4,800 (5%) | Tie (similar) |
| Rent (1BR, annual) | -$18,000 ($1,500/mo avg) | -$33,600 ($2,800/mo avg) | GA (46% cheaper) |
| Net Discretionary Income | ~$70,000 | ~$62,000 | GA WINS (+$8,000/year) |
| Hospital Quality | Emory #1 GA (13 yrs), Grady Level 1 trauma | Mass General #3, BWH #11 | Tie (both excellent) |
Bottom Line: Atlanta nurses have $8,000/year MORE discretionary income than Boston nurses despite $8,000 lower gross salary, with comparable hospital quality (Emory = regional leader like Mass General in Boston).
Additional Atlanta Advantages
- No snow removal: Mild winters (occasional snow, but rare), saves $500-$1,000/year vs Northeast
- Lower clothing costs: Mild climate requires less winter wardrobe
- Hartsfield-Jackson Airport: World's busiest airport = cheap flights anywhere (major airline hub competition)
- Food scene: Vibrant, affordable dining (Southern cuisine, international diversity)
- Professional sports: Braves (MLB), Falcons (NFL), Hawks (NBA), Atlanta United (MLS)
- Cultural diversity: "Black Mecca" (52% Black), hip-hop birthplace, thriving arts scene
Travel Nursing in Georgia
Atlanta ranks #10-15 nationally for travel nursing demand, with moderate competition and attractive rates combined with low cost of living.
Current Travel Nursing Rates (Verified 2024-2025)
Average Weekly Pay: $1,748-$2,985/week depending on specialty, experience, season.
Sources: Indeed ($1,925/week avg), Vivian ($1,927/week avg), AMN Healthcare ($1,748/week avg), ZipRecruiter (up to $2,985/week high-demand contracts).
Housing Stipends: $1,400-$2,000/month typical.
Annual Potential: $90,896-$155,220 for year-round travel nursing in Georgia.
Seasonal Breakdown
| Season | Weekly Rate | Demand Level |
|---|---|---|
| Winter/Spring (Jan-May) | $2,200-$2,985/week | Peak (flu season) |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | $1,900-$2,400/week | Moderate |
| Fall (Sep-Dec) | $1,748-$2,200/week | Lower |
Highest Demand Specialties
- ICU/Critical Care - Always critical need
- ER - Grady and other trauma centers constant recruitment
- Med/Surg - High volume, rapid turnover
- L&D - Growing Atlanta suburbs (Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Marietta) need maternity nurses
- OR - Specialty surgical centers expanding
Major Travel Destinations
- Emory Healthcare: 11 hospitals, frequent travel contracts
- Grady Health: Trauma specialists in high demand
- Northside Hospital: 3 Atlanta locations, community focus
- Piedmont Healthcare: 11 hospitals Atlanta region
- WellStar Health System: Regional coverage
Georgia Nursing License Requirements & CE (Verified 2024)
Initial Licensure
Requirements:
- Graduate from accredited nursing program (ADN, BSN, or diploma)
- Pass NCLEX-RN examination
- Submit application to Georgia Board of Nursing (online)
- Criminal background check
- Fingerprinting
- License fee: $310 total ($245 initial license + $65 first biennial renewal)
Processing Time: 2-3 weeks for initial license.
License Renewal
Renewal Schedule: Every 2 years.
Renewal Fee: $65 (verified Georgia Board of Nursing 2024).
Renewal Window: 60 days before expiration, online renewal available.
Continuing Education (MANDATORY - Verified 2024)
Georgia REQUIRES 30 contact hours of CE every 2 years for RNs and APRNs.
Special Requirement (Effective July 1, 2024): APRNs authorized to prescribe hydrocodone/oxycodone must complete 1 additional hour on opioid prescribing = 31 total hours biennially.
LPNs: 20 contact hours every 2 years.
CE Fulfillment Options:
- Complete 30 CE hours via Board-approved provider (submit transcripts/certificates)
- Maintain certification/recertification by national certifying body (ANCC, specialty boards)
- Complete accredited academic program (minimum 2 credit hours in nursing/related field)
- Employment verification (500+ hours practice during renewal period)
- Professional development activities
CE Tracking: Georgia uses CE Broker to track nurse CE completion - automatic reporting from approved providers.
No Mandatory Specific Courses: Unlike some states, Georgia doesn't require specific topics (infection control, domestic violence, etc.) - any nursing-related CE counts toward 30-hour requirement.
Other Major Georgia Employers
Piedmont Healthcare
Scale: 11 hospitals in Atlanta region, regional health system.
RN Salaries: $75,000-$92,000
Notable: Piedmont Atlanta Hospital ranked #2 in Georgia (tied with Emory St. Joseph's) in US News 2024.
Northside Hospital
Scale: 3 Atlanta locations (Northside Atlanta, Northside Forsyth, Northside Cherokee).
RN Salaries: $74,000-$90,000
Notable: Northside Atlanta ranked #4 in Georgia (US News 2024), known for maternity/women's health (largest birthing facility in US).
WellStar Health System
Scale: 11 hospitals across Georgia, regional coverage.
RN Salaries: $72,000-$88,000
Notable: WellStar Kennestone ranked #6 in Georgia (US News 2024).
Union Representation in Georgia
Georgia has MINIMAL union presence - Georgia is a "right-to-work" state with limited collective bargaining culture (typical for Southern states).
Union Status
- Georgia Nurses Association (GNA): Professional association, advocates for nursing but does not engage in collective bargaining
- National Nurses United (NNU): Minimal presence, some organizing efforts (mostly unsuccessful)
What This Means:
- Salary negotiations are individual or system-wide (not collectively bargained)
- Benefits vary by employer
- At-will employment (less job protection than unionized states)
- Focus on individual performance for raises/promotions
- Right-to-work state (cannot be forced to join union even if workplace unionizes)
Career Advancement Pathways in Georgia
Clinical Advancement
- Charge Nurse: +$3-$5/hour, requires 2-3 years experience
- Nurse Practitioner (NP): $100,000-$130,000, requires MSN/DNP
- Specialty Certifications: CCRN, CEN, OCN add $2,000-$5,000/year at major systems
Leadership/Management
- Nurse Manager: $90,000-$120,000
- Director of Nursing: $110,000-$145,000
- CNO (Chief Nursing Officer): $160,000-$220,000+
Bottom Line: Is Georgia Right for You?
Georgia is IDEAL for nurses who:
- Want exceptional cost-of-living value (30-40% cheaper than Northeast/West Coast, creating $8,000+/year more discretionary income)
- Seek world-class healthcare institutions (Emory #1 in Georgia 13 years, Grady Level 1 trauma paying 23% above state average)
- Are interested in public health careers (CDC headquarters creates unique opportunities)
- Value eNLC compact state benefits for Southeast travel circuit
- Appreciate diverse, vibrant city culture (Atlanta = 'Black Mecca', hip-hop birthplace, Southern hospitality)
- Want trauma nursing excellence (Grady $92K-$115K, top 10 nationally for public hospital RN pay)
- Prefer warm climate year-round (mild winters, hot summers)
Georgia may NOT be ideal for nurses who:
- Require strong union representation (minimal in Georgia)
- Prioritize absolute maximum gross salary (California, Oregon, Washington, Massachusetts pay more before costs)
- Prefer public transportation (Atlanta is car-dependent, traffic notorious)
- Dislike hot, humid summers (June-September can be oppressive, 90-95°F + humidity)
- Want state without CE requirements (Georgia requires 30 hours every 2 years)
Final Take: Georgia offers an exceptional combination of hospital prestige (Emory #1, Grady trauma excellence), unique opportunities (CDC public health), and outstanding cost of living value. Atlanta nurses enjoy $8,000+/year MORE discretionary income than Boston nurses despite lower gross salaries. For nurses seeking financial value, world-class institutions, diverse culture, and warm climate, Georgia is a top-tier Southeast destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about this topic