Ultimate Guide to 4-Week CNA Travel Contracts with Housing

businessfield November 13, 2025 2:46 am

For Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) seeking adventure, higher pay, and a fast-paced career path, short-term travel contracts are a game-changer. Among the most sought-after opportunities are 4-week CNA travel contracts with housing. These accelerated assignments offer a unique blend of flexibility and immediate income.

However, finding and securing these lucrative contracts comes with challenges: confusing stipends, hidden housing costs, and unclear agency practices.

This definitive guide cuts through the noise. We’ve researched the market, analyzed agency trends, and compiled expert advice to help you navigate the process successfully and land the perfect short-term contract.

Understanding the 4-Week Travel CNA Model

First, let’s clarify what these contracts entail. A travel CNA works temporarily at a facility (hospital, nursing home, assisted living) facing staffing shortages. A 4-week contract is on the shorter end of the spectrum, ideal for those who want to test the travel lifestyle or have quick gaps between commitments.

The key differentiator is housing. Contracts can be structured as:

Agency-Provided Housing: The travel agency secures and pays for your housing directly (often a private apartment or shared corporate housing).
Housing Stipend: You receive a nontaxable per-diem payment to find and pay for your own housing. This offers more freedom but requires more legwork.

Top 5 Challenges & Research-Backed Solutions

Based on analysis of CNA forums, agency reviews, and industry reports, here are the most common issues and how to solve them.

1: Finding Genuine “Housing Included” Contracts
Many agencies advertise “housing provided,” but the reality can be restrictive or low-quality.

Solution: Research and Ask Precise Questions.
- Keyword Tip: Search for “agency-placed housing” or “company-provided housing” instead of just “housing included.”
- Must-Ask Questions: “Is the housing private or shared?” “What furnishings are included?” “What is the process for addressing maintenance issues?” “Can I see photos or details of typical housing in [City]?”

Maximizing Your Total Compensation Package

The hourly rate is only part of the equation. For short 4-week contracts, the value of your housing or stipend is critical.

Solution: Compare “Apples to Apples” with a Pay Package Calculator.
- Break down any offer into: Taxable Hourly Wage + Nontaxable Housing Stipend + Nontaxable Meal/Incidental Stipend.
- Research Insight: Use a take-home pay calculator that accounts for stipends. A contract with a lower hourly rate but high, tax-free stipends often nets more money than one with a high hourly rate but no stipends, especially in high-cost areas.

Licensing & Compliance Hurdles

Each state has its own CNA registry and requirements. A 4-week contract doesn’t leave time for delays.

Solution: Target Compact States & Plan Ahead.
- Key Research Finding: The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) now includes Nursing Assistants (CNA Compact). If your primary state is a member, you can get a multistate license to work in other compact states quickly. Check the current list on the NCSBN website.
- For non-compact states, partner with an agency that has a dedicated compliance team to guide you through the application process.

Avoiding “Bait-and-Switch” or Last-Minute Cancellations

Some CNAs report having contracts or housing promises altered just before start dates.

Solution: Work with Reputable Agencies & Get Everything in Writing.
- Research Strategy: Look for agencies with:
  1. High Glassdoor/Indeed employee reviews from other travel CNAs.
  2. Clear contracts that specify housing details, guaranteed hours, and cancellation policies.
  3. Transparent communication from your recruiter.
- Pro Tip: Established healthcare staffing firms with a long track record (like Aya Healthcare, Trusted Health, or smaller, highly-rated specialists) often have more stable housing partnerships.

Managing the “Quick Turnaround” Lifestyle

Four weeks goes fast. Adapting to a new facility, city, and role immediately is stressful.

Solution: Prepare for Success from Day One.
- Facility Research: Upon assignment, ask for the unit size, patient ratios, charting system, and a point of contact. Connect with your future manager if possible.
- Housing Logistics: If taking a stipend, book short-term rentals (via Furnished Finder, Airbnb, or extended stay hotels) well in advance for the best rates.
- Mental Prep: Join travel healthcare Facebook groups to get facility-specific insights from CNAs who’ve worked there.

How to Find & Secure 4-Week CNA Contracts with Housing

Get Your Documents Ready: Updated resume, active CNA license, BLS/CPR certification, physical/TB test, and immunization records. Being “profile-ready” makes you a fast hire.
Specialize to Stand Out: CNAs with experience in ICU, Telemetry, Geriatrics, or Dementia Care are in higher demand and may command better contracts.
Apply to Multiple Agencies: Don’t rely on one. Have 2-3 recruiters working for you to compare offers for the same location.
Negotiate Your Package: For 4-week contracts, emphasize your “quick start” availability as a value. Ask if a travel reimbursement or sign-on bonus is available for such a short assignment.
Review the Contract Meticulously: Before signing, ensure all verbal promises about housing, hours, and pay rate are in the written agreement.

Top Agencies Known for Short-Term CNA Contracts

While you should always do your due diligence, agencies frequently noted for short-term CNA placements include:

Aya Healthcare: Large volume, wide range of jobs, structured housing department.
Supplemental Health Care (SHC): Strong reputation in allied travel, offers CNA contracts.
Host Healthcare: Highly rated for recruiter support and transparent packages.
Medical Solutions: Known for good benefits and housing options.
Local & Regional Agencies: Often have exclusive contracts with specific hospital systems and can offer unique, shorter assignments.

Final Verdict: Are 4-Week CNA Travel Contracts Worth It?

Yes, for the right person. They are a powerful way to:

Earn a significant income boost in a short time.
Gain diverse clinical experience.
Explore new cities without a long-term commitment.

The key to success is research, preparation, and partnership with a trustworthy agency. By understanding the potential pitfalls and using the strategies outlined above, you can transform a 4-week contract into a rewarding and profitable career adventure.