Compare per diem and local contract healthcare jobs to find the flexible work option that fits your lifestyle.

<p>Healthcare professionals today want more than just a job, they want <strong>flexibility, control, and career options that fit real life.</strong> That’s why per diem and local contract healthcare jobs are two of the fastest-growing work models across nursing, allied health, behavioral health, and non-clinical roles.</p>

<p>But what’s the difference between <strong>per diem healthcare jobs</strong> and <strong>local contract healthcare roles</strong>, and how do you know which one is right for you?</p>

<p>This guide breaks it down clearly so you can choose the flexible healthcare job that best aligns with your lifestyle, income goals, and career stage.</p>

<h2>What Are Per Diem Healthcare Jobs?</h2>
<p><strong>Per diem healthcare jobs</strong> allow clinicians to work shifts on an as-needed basis, often filling last-minute staffing gaps or supporting facilities during peak demand.</p>

<p><strong>Key characteristics of per diem roles:</strong> </p>
<ul>
  <li> Short-term, shift-by-shift work </li>
  <li> Flexible scheduling — work when you want</li>
  <li> Typically higher hourly pay </li>
  <li> Little to no long-term commitment</li>
  <li> Ideal for clinicians who want control over their calendar </li>
</ul>

</br>
<p>Per diem work is common across hospitals, long-term care facilities, outpatient centers, and behavioral health settings.</p>

<h2>What Are Local Contract Healthcare Jobs? </h2>
<p><strong>Local contract healthcare jobs</strong> offer a more structured option while still maintaining flexibility. These assignments usually last between <strong>4–13 weeks</strong> and are located close to home,  without the travel requirements of traditional travel contracts.</p>

<p><strong>Key characteristics of local contract roles:</strong></p>
<ul>
  <li> Fixed assignment length</li>
  <li> Predictable schedules </li>
  <li> Guaranteed hours </li>
  <li> Often include overtime opportunities</li>
  <li> Strong balance between stability and flexibility </li>
</ul>

</br>
<p>Local contracts are especially popular with clinicians who want consistency without committing to permanent employment.</p>

<h3>Per Diem vs. Local Contract: Key Differences at a Glance</h3>
<table>
  <thead>
    <tr>
      <th>Feature </th>
      <th>Per Diem Jobs</th>
      <th> Local Contract Jobs</th>
    </tr>
  </thead>
  <tbody>
    <tr>
      <td>Schedule </td>
      <td>Choose individual shifts</td>
      <td>Set weekly schedule</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <td>Commitment</td>	
      <td>Minimal	</td> 
      <td>Short-term contract</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <td>Pay Structure</td>	
      <td>Higher hourly rates</td>	
      <td> Consistent weekly pay</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <td>Stability</td>	
      <td> Variable</td>	
      <td> Predictable</td>
    </tr>
    <tr>
      <td> Best For	</td> 
      <td> Maximum flexibility</td>	
      <td> Reliable income </td>
    </tr>
  </tbody>
</table>

<p>Both options fall under the umbrella of flexible healthcare jobs, but they serve different personal and professional needs.</p>

<h2>Which Option Is Right for You? </h2>
<p> <strong>Per Diem Healthcare Jobs May Be Right If You:</strong></p>
<ul>
  <li> Want to work around family, school, or another job </li>
  <li> Prefer choosing shifts instead of fixed schedules</li>
  <li> Are semi-retired or easing back into clinical work</li>
  <li> Want to supplement income with higher hourly pay</li>
  <li> Like variety in work settings </li>
</ul>

</br>
<p>Per diem work offers unmatched autonomy but it requires comfort with fluctuating hours.</p>


<p><strong>Local Contract Healthcare Jobs May Be Right If You:</strong></p>
<ul>
  <li> Want steady income without long-term commitment</li>
  <li> Prefer knowing your schedule weeks in advance</li>
  <li> Are transitioning out of full-time employment</li>
  <li> Want flexibility without the unpredictability of per diem shifts</li>
  <li> Like staying at one facility for a defined period </li>
</ul>


</br>

<p>Local contracts provide structure while still allowing freedom between assignments.</p>

<h2>Pay Considerations: What Can You Expect? </h2>
<ul>
  <li><strong>Per diem healthcare jobs</strong> often offer higher hourly rates but fewer guaranteed hours.</li>
  <li><strong>Local contract healthcare jobs</strong> typically provide consistent paychecks with built-in overtime potential. </li>
</ul>

<h2>Credentialing & Readiness: What Both Require</h2>
<p>Regardless of which path you choose, being assignment-ready is key:</p>
<ul>
  <li> Active licenses and certifications</li>
  <li> Up-to-date immunizations and health records</li>
  <li> Current resume and skills checklists </li>
  <li> Willingness to respond quickly to opportunities </li>
</ul>
</br>
<p>Staffing partners often help streamline this process, making it easier to move between roles.</p>

<h2>Can You Do Both Per Diem and Local Contract Work? </h2>
<p> Yes! And many healthcare professionals do.</p>
<p>Some clinicians use <strong>local contracts for stability</strong> while picking up <strong>per diem shifts for extra income.</strong> Others alternate between the two depending on life circumstances, seasonal demand, or burnout prevention.</p>


<p>Flexibility is the biggest advantage of modern healthcare staffing.</p>

<h2>How Staffing Partners Support Flexible Healthcare Careers</h2>
<p>Working with a trusted staffing partner gives you:</p>

<ul>
  <li> Access to exclusive per diem and local contract jobs </li>
  <li> Transparent pay information </li>
  <li> Credentialing support</li>
  <li> A recruiter who understands your goals</li>
  <li> Career flexibility without going it alone </li>
</ul>

</br>
<p>Whether you’re early in your career or planning your next phase, the right partner makes navigating flexible healthcare jobs easier.</p>

<h2>Choosing What Works for You</h2>
<p>There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to per diem vs. local contract healthcare jobs.</p>

<p> The best option depends on: </p>
<ul>
  <li> Your income goals</li>
  <li> Desired schedule control</li>
  <li> Need for stability </li>
  <li>	Career stage and lifestyle priorities </li>
</ul>

</br>
<p>The good news? You don’t have to choose forever. Flexible healthcare jobs let you adjust as your needs change.</p>

<h2>Ready to Explore Your Options? </h2>
<p><a href="https://www.crosscountry.com/local?utm_source=Website&utm_campaign=BLOG" target="_blank">View Open Jobs</a> to see current per diem and local contract opportunities near you.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.crosscountry.com/local/nursing?utm_source=Website&utm_campaign=BLOG" target="_blank">Join Our Talent Network</a> and we’ll connect you to rewarding opportunities that fit your goals.
</p>

<p>Your schedule. Your career. Your choice.</p>


Per Diem vs Local Contract: A Guide to Flexible Healthcare Jobs

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