San Jose - the heart of Silicon Valley - is not only famous for technology but also home to some of Northern California’s largest hospitals. For travel nurses, finding the right housing during a standard 13-weekcontract can feel overwhelming: Where should you live to save commute time? Which housing option balances comfort and budget best?
Travel nurse housing in San Jose by VIAM Homes
In this guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about travel nurse housing in San Jose - from major hospital hotspots and average commute times, to housing types, rental costs, and step-by-step tips for securing safe and convenient accommodation.
Hospital Clusters & Best Areas for Travel Nurse Housing in San Jose
San Jose is home to several major hospital clusters. Choosing travel nurse housing in San Jose near your assigned hospital can save you valuable time, with average commutes ranging from just 10 to 25 minutes each way.
West San Jose & Central San Jose
This is the “medical heart” of San Jose, home to major hospitals such as Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, O’Connor Hospital, and Kaiser Santa Clara.
- Willow Glen: Nicknamed “the village within the city,” Willow Glen is known for its tree-lined streets and charming historic homes. A perfect choice if you prefer a warm, homey atmosphere.
- Rose Garden: Famous for its historic rose garden, this neighborhood offers a calm and peaceful vibe - ideal for travel nurses seeking relaxation after long shifts.
- Santana Row: In contrast to Rose Garden’s quiet charm, Santana Row is a “city paradise” filled with shopping centers, upscale restaurants, and stylish cafés. Many modern apartments and houses here are designed with travel professionals in mind, making it a popular spot for furnished rentals for nurses.
- Downtown San Jose / City Hall: Vibrant and energetic, this area offers easy access to most hospitals in the city. A great fit if you want travel nurse housing in San Jose that combines work convenience with a lively, urban lifestyle.
⏱️ Average Commute Time: 10-20 minutes
Santana Row near hospital clusters (Source: Travel Us News)
East San Jose
The eastern side of San Jose is home to Regional Medical Center, one of the largest and most important hospitals in the area.
- Evergreen: A newer residential neighborhood filled with parks and schools, offering a fresh and peaceful atmosphere-perfect for those who value calm living after long shifts.
- Alum Rock: A historic district with a strong sense of community and cultural diversity, where you can enjoy a wide range of cuisines and local traditions.
- Berryessa: Conveniently located near the new BART system, making it easy to commute beyond San Jose. Ideal for travel nurses who want to balance work with exploring the greater Bay Area.
- Downtown San Jose: Just a 15-20 minute drive to Regional Medical Center, this area is a “balanced” choice for those who want proximity to work in the East while still experiencing the vibrant energy of city life.
⏱️ Average Commute Time: 15-20 minutes
Evergreen near hospital clusters (Source: Homes)
South San Jose
In the southern part of San Jose, two major hospitals - Kaiser San Jose and Good Samaritan Hospital - anchor this area. It’s a popular choice for travel nurse housing in San Jose thanks to its spacious neighborhoods and proximity to nature.
- Santa Teresa: Known for its fresh air, parks, and walking trails, this area is perfect for nurses who enjoy outdoor activities and seek balance between work and life.
- Cambrian Park: A quiet residential neighborhood with many family homes, offering a safe and welcoming environment.
- Almaden: An affluent suburban district featuring scenic hills and spacious houses, ideal for those who value privacy and a higher standard of living.
- Los Gatos: A picturesque town nestled by the mountains, with fresh air and charming views. Many nurses choose Los Gatos for its slower pace and relaxed lifestyle, though rental costs here are typically higher.
- Downtown San Jose: With its central location, Downtown remains a balanced option, especially for travel nurses who need to rotate between hospitals in both the West and South.
⏱️ Commute Time: Approximately 15-25 minutes.
Hospital Clusters & Best Areas for Travel Nurse Housing in San Jose
Types of Housing Options for Travel Nurse Housing in San Jose
When starting a new 13-week contract in a city, the biggest concern for many travel nurses isn’t the long shifts or the paperwork-it’s the question: “Where will I live during this assignment?”
In San Jose-vibrant yet expensive-finding the right place can be challenging. Some nurses hesitate to spend over $3,000 a month on a private apartment, while others struggle with the idea of sharing their living space. So, what’s the best option for you?
Below are three of the most common types of travel nurse housing in San Jose-each offering a different lifestyle, from budget-friendly shared homes to fully furnished rentals for nurses who prefer convenience and privacy.
Co-living: Private Room - Simple, Affordable, Fully Furnished
A private room gives you a cozy space of your own - simple yet complete. All rooms come fully furnished with a bed, wardrobe, work desk, plus essential utilities like A/C, hot water, and high-speed internet. Even better, each comes with an en-suite bath for ultimate privacy - because that’s all you need after a long day.
Many travel nurses choose this option because of its reasonable cost and convenience, especially when contracts last only a few months. At places like VIAM Homes, private rooms are thoughtfully designed, clean, located near major hospital clusters, and available with flexible month-to-month leases - making them a perfect fit for the pace of travel nurse housing in San Jose.
Private Suite for rent in Downtown San Jose by VIAM Homes
The kitchen and living room are professionally managed with cleaning and often included in the package, and also shared with housemates - whether it is students, office workers, or even other travel nurses. This is the trade-off: budget-friendly, fully furnished rentals for nurses in exchange for complete privacy.
💵 Estimated 2025 Cost: $1,500 - $2,000/month
👉 Ideal for those who want to save on housing costs while still enjoying convenience and a sense of “home” during their assignment.
Private Group Stays - Complete Privacy, Comfort Like Home
For many travel nurses, having a quiet, private space after a long shift is the most valuable thing. A furnished rental for nurses provides that “home away from home” feeling, even when you’re far from family. From the bed, sofa, and kitchen to the washer and dryer, everything is ready - you only need to bring your suitcase.
In San Jose’s travel nurse housing market, the two most common furnished apartment options are:
Condo - Spacious, Modern, and Conveniently Located
Condos are typically found in residential buildings and offer a complete private space with a separate entrance to the home. Imagine Private Rooms but now everything is much more accessible within your own home. Not to mention, you do not share the kitchen, the living room and the laundry machines with strangers- you get to share them with someone you know. They’re a great option for those who want extra comfort, whether living with a small family, colleagues or simply needing more room to relax.
💵 Estimated 2025 Cost: around $3,000 - $4,200/month
Condo Unit for rent near San Jose City Hall by VIAM Homes
👉 Ideal for travel nurses seeking stability, open living space, and convenient locations across the city. Many of the condos recommended by VIAM Homes come fully furnished with en-suite baths, making them a hassle-free choice for furnished rentals for nurses in San Jose.
Detached ADU - A Private Mini Home with Absolute Privacy
A detached ADU is a small apartment built separately in the backyard or on a corner lot of a main house. Unlike an attached unit, it stands as an independent “mini home,” complete with a bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, and full furnishings. Its biggest advantage is the peace and absolute privacy it offers-you get your own space while still being in a safe neighborhood, close to local life.
💵 Estimated 2025 Cost: $3,500 - $4,500/month
Detached ADU for rent in Downtown San Jose by VIAM Homes
👉 Perfect for travel nurses who want a compact, fully furnished rental with all the comforts of home. Through VIAM Homes, you can easily access some of the most sought-after ADUs in San Jose-an option many nurses consider a top choice when it comes to travel nurse housing in San Jose.
How to Find Travel Nurse Housing in San Jose: A Step-by-Step Guide
When you’re on assignment-especially with a standard 13-week contract-finding the right place to stay in San Jose can feel overwhelming. To save time, energy, and avoid last-minute stress, here’s a step-by-step guide designed for travel nurses.
Step 1: Identify the hospital cluster where you’ll be working
San Jose is home to several major hospitals, spread across different areas (West, East, South, and Downtown). Pinpointing your primary work location is crucial for choosing housing nearby, so you don’t end up with a 30-40 minute commute each day. Ask yourself:
- Which hospital will be your main workplace?
- Will you need to rotate between multiple facilities?
- Do you prioritize living closer to the hospital, or would you rather stay near city amenities?
👉 By clarifying this first step, you’ll narrow down the best neighborhoods for travel nurse housing in San Jose, whether you’re looking at private rooms, co-living, or fully furnished rentals for nurses.
Step 2: Choose the Right Neighborhood
Each area in San Jose has its own unique character:
- Willow Glen, Rose Garden, Santana Row - vibrant, central, and full of services.
- Evergreen, Alum Rock, Berryessa - quieter, family-oriented, close to the East Side.
- Cambrian, Almaden, Los Gatos - safe, fresh air, and convenient to the South Side.
👉 If you prefer convenience and an urban lifestyle, living near Downtown San Jose or Santana Row can be an excellent choice for travel nurse housing in San Jose or furnished rentals for nurses.
Step 3: Decide on Your Preferred Housing Type
- Private Room: affordable, fully furnished, professionally managed, with built-in community
- Private Group Stays (Condo / ADU): maximum privacy and comfort, just like home.
👉 Consider your budget, privacy needs, and the level of convenience you want.
Step 4: Calculate Your Costs
Housing in San Jose can range from around $1,500/month (private room) up to $4,500/month (furnished ADU). Always check whether utilities (electricity, water, internet) are included to avoid unexpected expenses.
Step 5: Review the Lease Terms Carefully
Most travel nurse contracts are short-term (13 weeks). Look for flexible rental options that don’t require long commitments. Always read the fine print about deposit refunds, lease extensions, and any additional fees.
Step 6: Use Trusted Platforms or Services
You can explore housing options through Facebook groups, Airbnb, or Furnished Finder. However, to save time and ensure you find the right match, many travel nurses prefer working with specialized services like VIAM Homes - offering private rooms, studios, condos, and ADUs with full furnishings, ready for short-term contracts.
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Travel nurse housing in San Jose by VIAM Homes
Finding housing in San Jose becomes much easier when you follow the steps - from choosing the right hospital cluster and neighborhood, to selecting the housing type and a trusted provider. Once your accommodation is settled, you’ll feel more at ease to focus on work and enjoy the vibrant experiences this city has to offer.
Whether it’s a budget-friendly private room, a convenient co-living space, or a fully furnished apartment, the key is balancing cost with comfort. And with VIAM Homes , you’ll quickly find the right fit among the best options for travel nurse housing in San Jose, ready for you to start your journey.
🛏️ See available rooms and details here: https://viamhomes.com/our-rooms
👉 “A good home is the strongest foundation for your journey in healthcare.”
