Best Mid-Term to Long-Term Housing Options in Indianapolis for Travel Nurses (2026 Guide)
Travel nurses have always played a vital role in Indianapolis, especially with the city’s busy network of hospitals like IU Health, Ascension St. Vincent, Eskenazi, and the VA Medical Center. With so many rotating assignments, the need for reliable, comfortable, and safe mid-term housing has never been higher.
If you’re heading to Indy for a 13-week (or longer) assignment, this guide will help you understand your best housing options — what they cost, what to expect, and how to choose the right setup for your schedule and lifestyle.
1. Furnished Mid-Term to Long-Term Rentals
This is often the most popular choice among travel nurses — and for good reason. Furnished rentals give you a home-like environment without long-term commitments.
Pros
Move-in ready — includes furniture, kitchen essentials, linens, and Wi-Fi
More privacy than extended-stay hotels
Full kitchen for meal prepping during long shifts
- Laundry access (in-unit or onsite)
Cons
Availability can vary by neighborhood
Prices differ depending on proximity to hospitals
Best for: Nurses who want comfort, privacy, and the ability to truly settle in during their assignment.
2. Extended-Stay Hotels
Hotels can be a convenient option — especially if you prefer minimal setup and predictable service.
Pros
- Front desk support
- Weekly housekeeping
- Utilities + Wi-Fi included
- Sometimes offer breakfast
Cons
- Usually smaller living spaces
- Limited storage
- Shared walls and hallways (noise issues for day sleepers)
- Often more expensive than furnished rentals for longer stays
Best for: Nurses on shorter contracts or those who don’t plan to cook often.
3. Airbnb or Vacation Rentals
Many travelers consider Airbnb since it’s widely accessible but the experience can be hit or miss.
Pros
- Variety of locations and styles
- Easy to book last-minute
- Flexible lengths of stay
Cons
- Cleaning fees and service fees increase total cost
- Inconsistent host quality
- Some homes are set up for vacations, not long-term living
- Risk of cancellations by hosts
- Night-shift nurses often report noise issues in multi-listing “Airbnb apartments”
Best for: Very flexible assignments or short trial stays before committing to something longer-term.
4. Room Rentals / Shared Housing
Some nurses choose shared homes for affordability.
Pros
- Lower monthly rent
- Utilities often included
- Good option for budget-conscious travelers
Cons
- Less privacy
- Shared kitchens + baths
- Varying cleanliness standards
- Limited control over noise
Best for: Budget-first travelers or new nurses starting out.
5. Corporate Housing
Corporate housing is known for its upscale, fully furnished units — typically in luxury apartment communities.
Pros
- Some high-end amenities
- Reliable management
- Flexible booking options
- Great locations near downtown hospitals
Cons
- Higher cost
- Sometimes requires a minimum stay length
Best for: Nurses with a higher housing stipend or those who prefer a luxury experience.
How to Choose the Right Option
Before booking, consider:
✔ Commute Time
Indianapolis traffic is mild, but choosing somewhere 5–15 minutes from your hospital makes a huge difference after a 12-hour shift.
✔ Noise Levels
If you work nights, look for:
- Solid walls (no paper-thin apartment “stucco walls”)
- Low foot traffic
- Private entrances
- Residential neighborhoods instead of entertainment districts
✔ Parking
Many travelers bring their own car. Confirm:
- Free parking
- Well-lit areas
- Security cameras (if available)
✔ Safety
Always check:
- Neighborhood reviews
- Street lighting
- Door locks + smart locks
- Whether the unit has exterior cameras (for security, not interiors)
✔ Price Transparency
Make sure the rate includes:
- Utilities
- Wi-Fi
- Laundry access
- Parking
- Cleaning schedule
Unexpected add-ons can turn a “cheap” rental into the most expensive one.
Indianapolis offers plenty of great housing options for travel nurses from cozy furnished rentals and extended-stay hotels to corporate units and Airbnbs. The best choice depends on your needs, your schedule, and how you like to unwind after long shifts.
Many travel nurses find that furnished rentals provide the perfect balance of affordability, comfort, and privacy especially when staying for 13+ weeks.