Choosing to work in a remote or rural area in Canada comes with some great benefits, especially for nurses looking to grow in their careers, have a good balance between work and personal life, and make more money. So, if you’re thinking of making the jump from city nurse to rural nurse – here 3 benefits of going rural:
Nurses in small towns usually work with a smaller group of people, so it feels more like a close-knit team. This makes it easier for you to give really good, personalized care to your patients. Working closely with the same people every day means you can build strong relationships and work together better, which can be super satisfying.
In rural areas, you’ll also likely handle more complex cases due to the lack of specialists. This gives you the chance to take on a wider range of tasks, helping you develop your skills and find greater satisfaction in your job. With fewer specialists available, you’ll also have the opportunity to take on various roles and responsibilities that you might not encounter in the city in one single role. This diversity in your work can be very fulfilling.
Another benefit of working in rural areas is the connection you can build with the local community. When you work as a nurse in these regions, you often get to know your patients on a personal level, forming strong bonds with the people you care for. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the positive impact you’re making in the lives of those around you.
Imagine being able to tailor your work hours to fit your life. In rural areas, this could mean options like part-time hours, job sharing, or even just starting and ending your day when it works best for you. It allows you to attend family events, take care of your kids, or pursue further education without feeling like you have to choose your career or your personal life, helping to create a more balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
Plus, the supportive nature of rural healthcare teams flexibility. In smaller communities, colleagues often understand and accommodate each other’s needs, creating a workplace culture that prioritizes well-being. This mutual support helps the team work better together and creates a positive work environment where everyone feels valued and understood.
Many provinces in Canada offer financial incentives to healthcare providers considering a move from urban centers to rural areas. These incentives are designed to improve work-life balance and make the transition to rural practice more appealing. Here are some common perks you might see as a rural nurse:
Housing allowances are a common incentive, helping to offset the cost of living in rural areas where housing may be more expensive and less accessible. This financial support can make it easier for you to find suitable accommodations and settle into your new community faster.
Travel allowances covering costs associated with relocating and commuting within rural areas are another way the government is encouraging nurses to move to rural and remote areas. This support can significantly ease your transition, whether you’re relocating, commuting, or traveling back to visit family and manage personal commitments.
Moving to a new place can be expensive, but some provinces offer relocation bonuses to help out. These bonuses give you money to cover moving costs, making the move easier and less stressful for new grads and experienced professionals alike.
For many recent graduates who are weighed down by student loans, loan forgiveness programs can be a huge draw to make the move to rural Canada. These programs help lighten the financial load by offering partial or even full forgiveness of student loans if you choose to work in these high-need communities.
This not only makes a career in rural healthcare more financially doable but also a lot more appealing. For new graduates, the chance to cut down on student debt while making a meaningful impact on the health of a community can be a powerful incentive to choose rural work over urban options.
Rural retention programs are also a big deal. They give extra money to healthcare workers who stay in rural areas for a long time. This helps keep skilled professionals in these communities so people continue to get the care they need. For nurses, it’s a great way to get recognized and rewarded for your dedication while making a real difference in the community.
Some of the best bonuses come as signing bonuses. These are usually available for nurses with specialized skills or those needed in high-demand regions. These bonuses provide additional financial incentives if you’re willing to work in areas with critical shortages.
If you’re still looking for some motivation, check out this video “Why Rural?” by Alberta Health Services. It highlights the unique benefits of pursuing a rural nursing career.
Overall, working as a nurse in a rural area is really special and rewarding. You get to make a big difference in small communities that really need your help. Plus, there are lots of financial and professional benefits, like support and growth opportunities. If you’re looking for a career that’s both meaningful and offers a chance to grow, being a nurse in a remote or rural part of Canada could be perfect for you.
AUTHOR
Megan Avalos is an avid reader and loves to sneak away when she can for a quiet moment with a coffee and her latest book. When she's not lost in pages, she's busy chasing her two wonderful boys and making the most of outdoor adventures.
With 14 years of experience in insurance account management, Megan specializes in underwriting, risk assessment, client engagement, and operational enhancements. Beyond insurance, she loves writing about the latest deals, travel, and trends. Connect with her on LinkedIn.