When recruiting new healthcare workers, a big signing bonus can grab attention, but it’s not always what keeps them long term. Relocation benefits, on the other hand, are often the unsung hero of healthcare recruitment. Done right, they make starting a new role easier, reduce stress, and set up your hires for success.
What Relocation Benefits Really Do for Your Hires
A strong relocation package does more than hand someone a check. It helps healthcare workers and their families move smoothly to a new city and facility, which can make a big difference in retention. Common perks include:
- Professional movers: Packing, shipping, and unpacking so your new hire isn’t scrambling or relying on friends.
- Temporary housing or house-hunting trips: Gives new hires time to find the right home without last-minute stress.
- Travel coverage: For the new hire and sometimes their family, even pets.
- Real estate or rental support: Guidance on home buying, selling, or leasing in a new city.
Handled well, relocation support removes friction, gets your new team members settled faster, and lets them focus on patients and their team instead of moving logistics.
Why Relocation Often Outperforms a Bonus
Signing bonuses may feel like a quick win, but they disappear fast—often spent before a new hire even finishes onboarding. Relocation benefits, on the other hand, provide lasting, practical value. Housing support, movers, and local guidance reduce stress and set families up for a smoother transition. Instead of being a short-term perk, relocation creates a foundation for long-term success, which makes it a smarter investment for both employers and employees.
