When people hear “locum tenens,” they often picture living out of a suitcase, flying coast to coast, and working in places far from home. And while that option exists (and appeals to many) it’s not the only way to do locums.
Plenty of clinicians build flexible, fulfilling locum careers without ever leaving their region. Some never even leave their state.
If the idea of frequent travel has kept you from considering locum tenens, it might be time to look again.
Local and Regional Locums Is a Real Option
Locum work isn’t limited to cross-country contracts. Many facilities need short-term coverage within just a few hours of where you already live. These assignments can often be structured as weekday shifts, weekend coverage, or even part-time roles that allow you to stay close to your community, your family, and your routine.
Some clinicians choose to work within driving distance so they can sleep in their own bed. Others prefer regional roles that require occasional overnight stays but still feel manageable. It’s all about how far you’re willing to go and how you want to balance your time.
You Still Get the Benefits Without the Upheaval
Choosing to stay local doesn’t mean you lose the advantages of locum work. You still have the ability to set your own schedule, take breaks between assignments, and avoid the long-term commitments that come with traditional jobs.
You also gain exposure to different teams, patient populations, and clinical settings—without having to constantly uproot your life. That variety helps build confidence, expand your clinical toolbox, and reduce the risk of burnout that can come from staying in one
Less Travel Means Easier Transitions
One of the most overlooked benefits of local or regional locums is how much simpler the logistics can be. You’re dealing with fewer flights, shorter commutes, and less disruption to your personal life.
For clinicians with kids, pets, or other commitments, that kind of consistency can make a big difference. You don’t have to pack your life into a suitcase or figure out a new city every month. You just get in your car, show up, and do what you do best.
It’s a Great Way to Start
If you’re curious about locum tenens but aren’t sure it’s for you, local assignments are a low-pressure way to test the waters. You can ease into it without giving up your support network or comfort zone. Some providers take local roles on their days off, while others use them to bridge the gap between full-time jobs.
Over time, you might decide to explore travel roles. Or you might find that working close to home is the best balance for your life. Either way, you’ll be gaining experience, building professional connections, and taking control of your career path.
You Don’t Have to Go Far to Go Forward
Locum tenens doesn’t have to mean constant travel or living out of a hotel. It can mean working two towns over. It can mean driving to a new facility on Monday and being home for dinner by six. It can mean building a career that keeps you close to the people and places that matter most.
If you’ve been hesitant about locums because of the travel, know that you have options. Staying local is not only possible—it’s a path that works for many.
You can choose how far you go. You can choose how often you work. And you can build a flexible, meaningful practice without ever needing a plane ticket.
