Discover top global cities where nurses earn well, grow their careers, enjoy work-life balance, and thrive in supportive healthcare environments.
The mass exodus to Australia for Nurses is a hot button topic across Europe right now, but are the likes of Sydney, and Melbourne the only cities nurses should be considering, or are there other options?!
First things first, why are nurses leaving their home cities in the first place?
“Breaking News: Nursing is a high pressure, stressful, and demanding career!” – said no one ever. We all know that around the world nurses regularly work 12-14 hour shifts, leaving them both physically and emotionally drained.
We also know that in an ideal world nurses would all maintain the perfect work – life balance, employed in vibrant cities with excellent working conditions and fair pay. Obviously that’s not always the case, however, there are certain cities that offer competitive salaries, supportive working conditions, and just as importantly have opportunities for nurses to unwind and enjoy an exciting social scene.
Let’s dive into some of the best cities for nurses to live and work in 2025.
Toronto, Canada – Where Maple Syrup is It’s Own Food Group
If you are a nurse looking for a place where you can practice within a strong public healthcare system, while enjoying a bustling city centre and multicultural hub, Toronto could be the choice for you.
Canada’s largest city offers nurses a plethora of opportunities across it’s top tier public and private hospitals. There are numerous research institutions for those interested in continuous professional development, and a strong nursing presence in community health centres.
Salaries and working conditions are enviable in the city, often offering benefits, union support, and CPD programs. In your time off, enjoy the lakefront views and green spaces or head to the Entertainment District for an evening of dinner, drinks, and a show!
Toronto expertly balances career advancement with quality of life for nurses.
Zurich, Switzerland – Top Salaries and Swiss Precision
Known for it’s stature as the financial capital of Switzerland, Zurich is also one of the most rewarding places world-wide when it comes to nursing.
Nursing in Zurich is not just desirable due to the competitive salaries, (some of the highest world wide), but also due to the modern facilities, low patient- staff ratios, and the deep respect for the profession city wide. Although the cost of living is high, it is countered by the exceptional public transport, clean and safe surroundings, and access to the stunning Swiss Alps for weekend getaways!
Zurich offers a calm, orderly pace of life, making it ideal for nurses seeking both professional growth and personal well-being.
Dublin, Ireland- Ready for the Luck of the Irish?
Dublin may be Ireland’s official capital, though some of us still believe Cork holds that title (no bias, here…), but there’s no debating that it’s become a magnet for nurses from across the country and around the world.
The Health Service Executive (HSE) is Ireland’s public health service, and it’s dedication to international recruitment is a huge draw for nurses eager to move to vibrant city in an English speaking environment. A focus on older adult care is seen in Dublin, with nursing opportunities across geriatric medicine and community health plentiful.
Nurses in Dublin benefit from it’s rich social scene and friendly city centre, while the excellent public transport connects you easily to the idyllic seaside towns of Howth and Malahide.
London, England – Keep Calm and Nurse in the UK
As one of the world’s most recognised cities, London offers unparalleled career opportunities for nurses of all specialties.
Whether you’re aiming for a role in a prestigious NHS trust, a private hospital, or a specialist clinic, London’s vast and varied healthcare landscape has something for every nurse.
While the cost of living can be steep, nurses in London benefit from pay banding, relocation support, and endless career development pathways.
When your shift ends, London’s cultural and social scene doesn’t disappoint! Offering a dynamic social life, endless cultural attractions, and global cuisine on every corner. It’s a fast-paced city, but for ambitious nurses, London is where careers take off.
So, where should I go?
Choosing the right city to live and work as a nurse requires a multifaceted approach. You need to consider salary of course, but also lifestyle, opportunity, and long term progression.
Whether you’re eager to move at super speed and keep up with the pace of London, prefer the laid back lifestyle of Dublin, or the structured excellence of Zurich, the best city for you is the one that matches your personal goals, values, and sense of adventure.
Take your time, do your research, and remember: the world needs great nurses everywhere, why not find a place that works just as hard for you as you do for others?
