be_ixf;ym_202405 d_10; ct_50
American Traveler
American Traveler
(800) 884-8788

Travel Nurse Salary

Explore travel nurse salary insights for both new and experienced traveling RNs.

Travel Nurse Pay and Benefits

From competitive pay to attractive benefits, travel nursing offers lucrative opportunities. Whether as permanent staff or travelers, registered nurses enjoy well-paid employment opportunities nationwide.

TTravel nurse pay and benefits packages surpass those of staff positions, featuring highly competitive traveling RN salaries reaching six figures. Additional perks include a generous housing allowance, group health benefits, license reimbursement, and complimentary unlimited continuing education units.

Factors that Influence the Salary of a Travel Nurse

Registered Nurse Demand & Travel Nursing Pay

According to the U.S Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% annually between 2022 and 2032. With an estimated 193,000 new openings for registered nurses each year over the decade, this means more RN jobs and greater demand, which will likely translate to higher pay! The Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows that registered nurses earned a median annual salary of $81,220 in 2022. Keep in mind that the average travel nurse pay range is based on hours worked, location, specialty, and additional benefits.

Staff nurses enjoy excellent compensation, while travelers, in addition to a healthy travel nursing salary, relish comprehensive benefits and the likelihood of growing career opportunities. Embrace the rewarding world of travel nursing and secure both financial stability and professional growth.

Geographic Impact on Nursing Income

Nursing salaries exhibit substantial variation across states and local, prompting many travel nurses to select assignments based on regional compensation. We have high paying nursing jobs from coast to coast; each offering distinct pay scales. Your chosen location and area of specialization significantly influence the travel nursing wages you can expect. Find the latest data provided by the BLS, including the median hourly and annual rates for nursing pay by state, including RN salary in California, Texas, and New York.


In addition to your travel nurse salary, check out these enticing incentives:

  • Referral Bonuses: Boost your earning potential by not only excelling in your travel nurse assignment but also by spreading the word about the fulfilling career of a travel nurse!
  • Weekly Pay and Guaranteed Hours: Experience financial peace of mind with a dependable weekly paycheck and the added assurance of guaranteed hours if applicable.
  • Travel Reimbursements: Roam freely across the country, knowing that we’ve got your travel expenses covered generously.
  • Tax Advantage Plans: Take home up to 15% more of your paycheck through our advantageous tax plans.
  • Housing Allowance: Secure your preferred housing using our generous housing allowance.

Some Our Most Commonly Asked Questions About Travel Nurse Salary

Why is travel RN pay in California higher than in other states?

Some states have a more acute demand for registered nurses than other states, which often leads to higher pay. California is one such state! California nursing salaries have been among the highest in the country. Remember, however, that while the typical nurse salary in states like California and New York may be higher than nursing salaries in Florida, Texas, and other states, cities in California and New York also tend to have a higher cost of living.

How much do travel nurses make?

Travel nurses tend to out-earn their staff nurse counterparts. Between high travel pay, a competitive benefits package, and tax-free incentives, travelers may find more money in their pockets - and bank accounts! Job boards place the pay differentiation between travel nurses vs staff nurses working similar positions and schedules as 10 to 40% higher. In times of extreme demand, the pay advantage of traveling can skyrocket. Annualized travel nurse salaries can reach into the six figures depending on geographic location, nursing specialty, and experience.

Do travelers really earn more than permanent staff?

Travelers can earn more than permanent staff on an hourly and weekly basis. Traveler pay rates are a function of supply and demand. When the need is great in a given location, pay rates rise. Factor in benefits and bonuses and the compensation really adds up. We know that travel healthcare isn't a perfect fit for everyone at every point in their career, but when it suits you, it can be truly rewarding.

Are there ways to boost my travel nursing pay?

There are a few ways to maximize your travel nurse salary, such as being geographically flexible, being prepared for assignments as soon as possible, and gaining experience through completed assignments.

Where can I earn the most?

Certain states (see those listed above) have long been known for paying travelers above the national average. Even within those locations, some areas are known to pay above the state average. For example, rates in Los Angeles tend to be higher than the rest of California. The NYC area rates are generally above those throughout the rest of New York state. Likewise, pay in Chicago tends to outpace other areas in Illinois. If big cities aren't your thing, there are also some rural areas where pay rates are exceptional - because the population is underserved and the healthcare needs are great. Your recruiter can give you all the pay information in your specialty and desired destination.

Interested in learning more? Our knowledgeable recruiters can help guide you towards our highest-paying travel assignments.

Search Our Travel Nursing Jobs

 

travel nurse salary tax information

State Tax Questions

Travel nurse state tax income information and frequently asked questions. ...

travel nursing pay

High Pay and Bonuses

At American Traveler, registered nurses and allied professionals earn competitive salaries, reimbursements, and bonuses while traveling the country.