Housing Comparison
Furnished Finder vs. Sonder: Best Housing for Travel Nurses in 2025
Finding the right housing is crucial for travel nurses. Two popular options are Furnished Finder (travel nurse-focused) and Sonder (tech-enabled furnished apartments). This comprehensive comparison breaks down costs, amenities, lease flexibility, and travel nurse-specific features to help you maximize your housing stipend.
Quick Comparison: Furnished Finder vs. Sonder
| Factor | Furnished Finder | Sonder |
|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | Travel Nurses & Professionals | Business Travelers & Extended Stays |
| Average Monthly Cost | $800-1,500/month | $1,000-1,800/month |
| Lease Length | 1-12 months (perfect for 13-week assignments) | 1-12 months (flexible) |
| Furnished | Yes (fully furnished) | Yes (fully furnished, modern design) |
| Utilities Included | Often included | Usually included |
| Platform Fees | No platform fees | Service fees may apply |
| Tech Features | Basic | ✅ App-based check-in, keyless entry |
| Amenities | Basic to moderate | Premium (gyms, co-working spaces) |
| Travel Nurse Friendly | Yes (designed for professionals) | Moderate (business traveler-focused) |
Detailed Cost Comparison
Furnished Finder Pricing
Travel Nurse-Optimized Pricing
- Average Monthly Rent: $800-1,500/month
- Typical Lease: 1-3 months (perfect for 13-week assignments)
- Utilities: Often included in rent
- Furnishings: Fully furnished apartments/houses
- Security Deposit: Usually 1 month's rent
- Platform Fees: None - you deal directly with landlords
- Cleaning Fees: Usually none or minimal
- Monthly Rent: $1,200/month
- Utilities: Included
- Furnishings: Fully furnished
- Security Deposit: $1,200 (refundable)
- Total Monthly Cost: $1,200
Sonder Pricing
Tech-Enabled Furnished Apartment Pricing
- Average Monthly Rent: $1,000-1,800/month
- Typical Lease: 1-12 months (flexible)
- Utilities: Usually included
- Furnishings: Fully furnished, modern, curated design
- Security Deposit: Varies by property
- Service Fees: May apply (check property details)
- Cleaning Fees: Usually included or minimal
- Monthly Rent: $1,500/month
- Utilities: Included
- Furnishings: Premium, fully furnished
- Service Fees: $0-100/month (if applicable)
- Total Monthly Cost: $1,500-1,600
Winner: Furnished Finder typically offers better rates ($200-300/month less on average), making it better for maximizing your housing stipend.
Key Features Comparison
Furnished Finder Features
Travel Nurse-Focused
- ✅ Direct communication with landlords
- ✅ Travel nurse-friendly cancellation policies
- ✅ Understanding of assignment changes
- ✅ No platform fees
- ✅ Flexible lease terms
- ✅ Basic to moderate amenities
- ✅ Cost-effective pricing
Sonder Features
Tech-Enabled Experience
- ✅ App-based check-in and keyless entry
- ✅ 24/7 digital concierge support
- ✅ Modern, curated furnishings
- ✅ Premium amenities (gyms, co-working spaces)
- ✅ Consistent quality across properties
- ✅ Professional cleaning service
- ⚠️ Higher cost than Furnished Finder
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Furnished Finder If:
- ✅ You want to maximize your housing stipend
- ✅ You need travel nurse-friendly leases (1-3 months)
- ✅ You want travel nurse-specific accommodations
- ✅ You prefer dealing directly with landlords
- ✅ You need flexibility for assignment changes
- ✅ You want to avoid platform fees
- ✅ You value cost savings ($200-300/month)
Choose Sonder If:
- ✅ You want tech-enabled features (app check-in, keyless entry)
- ✅ You prefer modern, curated furnishings
- ✅ You want premium amenities (gyms, co-working spaces)
- ✅ You value 24/7 digital support
- ✅ You're okay paying a premium ($200-300/month more)
- ✅ You want consistent quality across properties
- ✅ You prefer hassle-free, tech-driven experience
Real-World Example: 13-Week Assignment
Housing Cost Comparison
Scenario: You have a $1,400/week housing stipend ($6,067/month) for a 13-week assignment in Seattle, WA.
| Factor | Furnished Finder | Sonder |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Rent | $1,200 | $1,600 |
| Service Fees | $0 | $50/month |
| Total 3-Month Cost | $3,600 | $4,950 |
| Housing Stipend (3 months) | $18,200 | |
| Tax-Free Profit | $14,600 | $13,250 |
| Difference | Furnished Finder saves $1,350 over 3 months | |
Bottom Line: Furnished Finder vs. Sonder
For most travel nurses, Furnished Finder is the better choice because:
- Cost Savings: $200-300/month less than Sonder
- Travel Nurse Focused: Designed specifically for your needs
- Flexibility: Better policies for assignment changes
- No Platform Fees: Direct landlord communication saves money
- Maximize Stipend: More tax-free profit from your housing stipend
Choose Sonder if you want tech-enabled features, premium amenities, and are willing to pay extra for a modern, hassle-free experience.
Next Steps: Find Your Perfect Housing
Calculate Your Housing Savings
Use our Travel Nurse Pay Calculator to see how housing costs affect your take-home pay. Factor in your housing stipend and compare different housing options to maximize your tax-free income.
Related Resources:
- Travel Nurse Housing Guide - Complete guide to finding housing
- Furnished Finder vs. Airbnb - Compare with another popular option
- Cost of Living Guide - Understand housing costs by city
- Weekly Stipends vs. Monthly Rent - Maximize your stipend
Related Articles:
- Furnished Finder vs. Airbnb: Best Housing for Travel Nurses
- Furnished Finder vs. Blueground: Best Housing for Travel Nurses
- Travel Nurse Housing Guide: Complete 2025 Guide
- Maximizing Your Travel Nurse Housing Stipend
Get Matched with Top-Paying Recruiters
Don't just read about pay—get matched with recruiters who can offer you the contracts you deserve.
Fill out the form below and we'll connect you with top travel nurse agencies in your desired state.
Looking for a contract? Get matched with top-paying recruiters.
Ready to calculate your exact take-home pay? Use our Travel Nurse Pay Calculator.
Calculate your exact take-home pay, compare contracts, and see how stipends affect your net income.
Go to Calculator