Nursing is a rewarding yet demanding profession, and many nurses eventually seek alternative careers to nursing for various reasons. Some desire a more flexible schedule, while others seek less physically or emotionally taxing roles. Burnout, long shifts, and workplace stress are common concerns that push nurses to explore other opportunities. Fortunately, the skills acquired in nursing—such as communication, problem-solving, and attention to detail—are highly transferable to other industries.
Whether you’re looking for a part-time role or a complete career change, there are several alternative careers to nursing that leverage your skills and experience. Some of the most popular options include real estate, education and training, health and wellness, and business administration.
Key Takeaways
- Many Nurses Seek Alternative Careers Due to Burnout and Work-Life Balance — Long shifts, emotional strain, and workplace stress push many nurses to explore career options that offer flexibility and financial growth. Skills like communication, problem-solving, and attention to detail make them well-suited for various industries.
- Real Estate is a Lucrative and Flexible Career Option for Nurses — Transitioning into real estate allows nurses to set their own schedules, work independently, and potentially earn a high income. The average real estate agent in Florida earns significantly more than the average RN, making it an attractive alternative.
- Other Alternative Careers Include Education, Wellness, and Business Roles — Nurses can leverage their expertise in teaching, becoming health and wellness professionals, or shifting to business-related careers like healthcare administration or medical sales. These roles offer structured schedules and competitive salaries.
- Transitioning to Real Estate in Florida is a Straightforward Process –To become a licensed real estate agent, nurses must complete a 63-hour pre-licensing course, pass a background check, take the licensing exam, and find a brokerage. Gold Coast Schools offers the necessary education and resources to make this career shift seamless.
Overview of Alternative Career Paths for Nurses
Here are some alternative careers for registered nurses, LPNs, CNAs, and others in the healthcare industry.
1. Real Estate
One of the most appealing flexible careers to nursing professionals is real estate. As a real estate agent, you can work independently, set your own hours, and earn a high income based on your effort and market knowledge. Many nurses who are leaving nursing find real estate to be an excellent fit because of their strong communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to work under pressure.
According to Gold Coast School’s 2025 salary guide, the average income of a real estate agent in Florida is $181,250. According to Indeed, the average RN in Florida makes $37.67 per hour, or about $78,300 per year for someone working full time.
2. Education and Training Roles
If you enjoy teaching and mentoring, transitioning into an education or training role could be an excellent alternative career for registered nurses. Options include becoming a nursing instructor, corporate trainer, or health educator. These roles allow you to share your knowledge with others while enjoying a more structured and predictable work schedule.
3. Health and Wellness Industry
The health and wellness industry offers several alternative careers to nursing that focus on personal well-being and holistic care. Many former nurses find fulfillment in becoming personal trainers, health coaches, or holistic wellness practitioners. These careers allow you to use your medical knowledge in a less stressful environment while helping people achieve healthier lifestyles.
4. Business and Administration
Nurses also have valuable skills that translate well into business and administrative roles. Careers in medical sales, healthcare administration, and consulting are popular among those leaving nursing. These positions often offer competitive salaries, structured schedules, and opportunities for professional growth.
Why Real Estate is a Great Fit for Nurses
Real estate is an attractive option for nurses seeking an alternative career because it provides flexibility, financial growth, and the opportunity to help others make important life decisions. Nurses naturally excel in real estate due to their ability to build trust, assess clients’ needs, and handle stressful situations. Additionally, doing real estate part-time is a viable option for those who want to transition gradually while maintaining a steady income.
How to Transition from Nursing to Real Estate in Florida
If you’re considering leaving nursing and exploring a career in real estate, obtaining a Florida real estate license is the first step. The process is straightforward and offers a smooth transition into a flexible and rewarding career. Here’s what you need to do:
Step 1: Complete a 63-hour pre-licensing course
The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) requires aspiring agents to complete a 63-hour real estate course from a state-approved school. Gold Coast Schools offers high-quality pre-licensing courses in multiple formats, including classroom, livestream, and online options, ensuring flexibility for busy professionals. Courses are available in both English and Spanish.
Step 2: Pass a background check and get fingerprinted
Before proceeding with your license application, you must complete a background check and fingerprinting process. It’s best to complete this step before submitting your application to avoid delays. You can visit a LiveScan location or schedule an appointment at a Gold Coast Schools location for fingerprinting services.
Step 3: Submit your Florida real estate license application
Once your fingerprints are submitted, you can apply for a real estate sales associate license through the DBPR. Once approved, you can schedule your real estate exam.
Step 4: Pass the Florida real estate licensing exam
The Florida real estate exam is administered by Pearson Vue and costs $36.75. You must score at least 75 out of 100 to pass. On exam day, bring two forms of ID, your Certificate of Pre-Licensing Education Completion, and arrive 30 minutes early. Test results are provided immediately after completion. Remote online proctoring is also available for added convenience.
Step 5: Find a real estate brokerage
In Florida, new real estate agents must work under the supervision of a licensed real estate broker. Many aspiring agents connect with brokerages by attending career fairs at real estate schools like Gold Coast Schools, where they can explore different opportunities and find the right fit.
Gold Coast Schools provides the education, resources, and career support you need to successfully transition into real estate. Whether you want to do real estate part time or make it your primary source of income, we’ll help you take the next step toward your new career.
Ready to Get Started?
Enroll in a Gold Coast School’s real estate pre-licensing course today and take the first step toward a flexible, rewarding career in real estate!