I’m a 2nd year flight attendant based in Denver and getting based back home to San Diego next month to live with family and save on rent. I’ve been seriously debating whether to stay in aviation or pivot into nursing.
I love parts of this job—the travel, the lifestyle, the freedom. But at the same time, I’m exhausted from the instability. Reserve life, inconsistent income, not really feeling financially secure… it’s starting to get to me. I’ve worked in healthcare before (inpatient unit clerk, patient access in an outpatient pediatrics & ER), so nursing has always been in the back of my mind—especially seeing how much more stable it is long-term.
I’m also helping support my family while trying to save for myself and eventually build something of my own (maybe a small business). I think I’m at a point where I’m asking myself if I’m choosing lifestyle over long-term security.
Part of me wants to stay and see how things improve, especially with potential pay increases with my airline's possible new contract (🌐) if it gets voted yes. But another part of me feels like I’m just delaying a more stable path.
For anyone who’s made a similar switch:
- Was it worth it?
- Do you miss the FA lifestyle?
- Should I stick it out for another year or two and see if it gets better?
- Or should I just commit to nursing now and build something more stable?
Appreciate any honest input!