search-icon

Travel Nurse Career and Degree Guide

  • Travel Nurse Overview
  • International Travel Nursing

Travel Nurse Salary Guide (How Much Can They Make?)

woman looking out window

For nursing professionals who value freedom and wish to serve where they’re needed most, travel nursing can be a rewarding and exciting career track. Rather than establishing themselves in one hospital, these nurses take assignments in locations that are experiencing shortages of qualified personnel.

In this Article

Median Salary | Other Financial Benefits | Tax-Free Compensation | Highest Paying States | Job Growth | Per Diem Salaries | International Salary | Boost Your Salary

And because of the nature of the job—which requires flexibility, independent thinking, and the willingness to jump into a role with very little prior notice—travel nursing salaries often exceed those of traditional nurses.

How Much Can Travel Nurses Make?

Travel nurses who are registered nurses (RNs) may make as much or more than the average RN salary of $81,220 per year, while advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) salaries often exceed the annual average of $129,400. (While travel nurse positions are also available for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and certified nursing assistants (CNAs), they are less common.) Crisis assignments may pay more than the average nursing salary, and things like housing stipends can boost your pay as well.

National data

Median Salary: $81,220

Projected job growth: 5.6%

10th Percentile: $61,250

25th Percentile: $66,680

75th Percentile: $101,100

90th Percentile: $129,400

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2022 median salary; projected job growth through 2032. Actual salaries vary depending on location, level of education, years of experience, work environment, and other factors. Salaries may differ even more for those who are self-employed or work part time.

Travel Nurse Pay May Exceed the Average

Though there’s no official data on travel nurse salaries, most postings advertise earnings that meet or exceed pay for permanent nurses with the same qualifications and certifications.

A travel nurse’s overall earning potential depends on several factors, said Parth Bhakta, CEO and founder of the travel nursing agency Nursefly. Generally, rapid-response postings pay the most. These are often positions serving an unanticipated need, such as medical help after a natural disaster.

“Crisis assignments (pay) quite a large premium over the average,” said Bhakta. “Many hospitals offer travel nurses higher compensation for specialties that require more knowledge and expertise, and many locations will offer higher salaries where there is a greater demand for nurses.”

Most travel nurse salaries meet or exceed those for permanent nurses with the same qualifications and certifications.

If you’re flexible about location and turnaround, you may enjoy higher base wages on top of other benefits. This is especially true for positions that are harder to fill, either because of their location or the required certifications and experience.

“On top of higher salaries, travel nurses usually also receive additional compensation like housing stipends, travel reimbursement, and per diem meal costs,” says Rachel Norton, RN, a critical care traveling nurse.

What Other Financial Benefits Are There?

young female nurse takes older patients vital signs

As mentioned above, travel nurse compensation packages often include bonuses and living expenses. Travel nurse wages are often quoted as a blended rate, which bundles together base salary with medical benefits and stipends or allowances for living expenses. A sample package might list a blended rate of $50 an hour, with a significant portion in the form of tax-free stipends for housing, travel, meals, and utilities.

Accommodations or Housing Stipend

Nearly all travel nursing compensation packages include housing, whether provided via a stipend for rent or complimentary housing within dorms or off-campus apartments. There might also be a daily allowance for meals, utilities, and other basic necessities. This is often called a Meals, Incidentals, and Expenditures (MI&E) stipend.

When it comes to housing, however, it can be more affordable to find your own accommodations.

“Once I find a position, I work directly with the staffing agency to figure out what housing arrangements and travel reimbursements are available to me,” says Norton. “Housing and travel reimbursements are sometimes handled by the staffing agency, it just depends on the contract; although nurses will almost always make more money by finding their own housing. Some of the short-term COVID contracts are a bit different, but traditional contracts will have a significant pay cut if the nurses take housing provided by the agency.”

Travel Expenses

Placement agencies will usually cover travel expenses such as airfare, either by arranging travel on the nurse’s behalf or providing a stipend. They may also reimburse mileage for car travel.

While most travel nurse agencies offer assistance with housing, it can often be more lucrative for nurses to find their own accommodations.

To sweeten a travel nurse’s compensation package, many agencies offer lucrative bonuses for signing on with them, completing a posting, or agreeing to an extension of an assignment. These incentives tend to accompany jobs in areas with the biggest staffing needs and a lack of qualified candidates in the region. They may also reward nurses for referring other qualified candidates to the agency or for reaching certain milestones in their tenure.

What Is Tax-Free Compensation?

A significant portion of a travel nurse compensation package comes in the form of tax-free benefits. For example, you won’t be taxed at the end of the year for travel and housing stipends or any health benefits you receive.

These kinds of benefits shouldn’t replace taxed income, though. This practice is what the IRS calls “ wage recharacterization ,” and the tax code prohibits it. Sometimes, disreputable agencies might offer base pay as low as the state minimum wage, then make up for it with tax-free compensations to bring the hourly blended rate in line with standard nursing salaries. However, the IRS sees this as a red flag, since the taxable income portion falls well below the average wage for a registered nurse, and tax-free compensation is meant to offset the burdens of temporary work outside of your tax home.

To avoid a painful and expensive audit, agencies should offer reasonable base pay—that is, the taxable income that you receive in the form of a paycheck or direct deposit—for the position in question. Nurses should avoid postings with exceedingly low base wages, even if the tax-free compensation is attractive, because they may be subject to a tax audit themselves if the IRS finds the agency they work for guilty of wage recharacterization. Always ask for an itemized breakdown when agencies quote a blended rate to ensure the base wage is reasonable for the position and location.

“There are also several ways you can optimize taxes to receive various stipends and benefits, depending on your pay structure,” says Norton. “Travel nurses get paid either a blended rate of tax-free stipends and a taxable hourly wage, or an hourly wage that is taxed based on your rate of pay. It’s important to understand the two.”

Your agency can help you sort out how you’re being paid, so always ask if you’re not sure.

Highest-Paying Cities & States for Travel Nurses

The following are the top 10 U.S. locations (all in California) with the highest median salaries for RNs, says the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:

The highest-paying city for nurses is San Jose, California, likely due to its high cost of living. For nurses interested in more rural settings, there are a few non-metropolitan locations that are promising. Due to the demand for qualified personnel in the rural areas of Alaska, for example, postings throughout the Last Frontier can be quite attractive.

Another way to identify high-paying posts is to review the locations where nursing shortages are projected to be the most severe in the coming years. According to a 2023 report by Zippia, the states projected to have the biggest nursing shortages by 2030 are California, Texas, New Jersey, South Carolina and Alaska.

What Kind of Job Growth Is Expected?

Nursing jobs are in high demand throughout the country and will continue to be for the next several years. According to the BLS’ Occupational Employment Statistics for RNs, demand is projected to grow 5.6% through 2032 due to the rise in chronic diseases like diabetes, longer life expectancies, and a significant portion of the workforce aging into retirement.

How Travel Nurse Salaries Compare to Per Diem Nursing

Per diem nursing assignments are typically much shorter than travel nurse postings, which usually are for at least four weeks. These assignments allow for even greater flexibility, offering nurses complete control over their preferred hours and shifts.

While there’s no conclusive data on pay for per diem nurses, the hourly rates tend to exceed those of travel nurses and nurses in permanent roles. However, the freedom and higher pay can come with more instability. While travel nurses can count on their assignments lasting the full duration listed in their contract, per diem nurses’ terms may be cut short or canceled without notice if staffing needs change.

Salaries and Benefits for International Travel Nurses

salary icon

International travel nursing provides the opportunity to explore locations all over the world . These assignments are typically at least a year long, and may have some prerequisites, such as knowledge of the local language and obtaining a visa in the host country.

However, if you’re looking to earn a lot of money, international travel nursing is likely not for you. Most countries pay significantly less than what you’ll find for travel nursing jobs across the United States, though you may find higher rates for roles in some small European countries such as Luxembourg. Additionally, some locations, such as the Middle East, have lower costs for everyday expenses like taxes and housing. So even though your salary might be smaller, it will go a lot further.

How to Boost Your Travel Nurse Salary

Travel nurses who are open to jobs in a wide range of locations tend to earn the most. Many agencies incentivize less desirable postings with generous bonuses, either upon signing on or upon completion. Rapid-response postings also tend to have higher wages, since they require the nurse to report within a matter of days to their new location and hit the ground running.

Nurses who hold certifications to work in specialty fields also enjoy more competitive wages because these positions are harder to fill. Fields with high demand include cardio catheterization, oncology, anesthesia, and neonatal and pediatric intensive care. Added certifications and experience will not only help you boost your salary, but also serve as a good way to ensure you’re prepared for the demands of travel nursing.

“Specialty certifications always help you stand out on an application, and the more years of experience a nurse has, the better chance they will be successful on contracts,” says Norton. “Travel nurses must be very comfortable in their practice because we receive such a short orientation upon arriving to a facility.”

travel nurse salary in different states

Written and reported by:

Stephanie Srakocic

Contributing writer

With professional insight from:

parth bhakta

Parth Bhakta

CEO and founder, NurseFly

rachel norton

Rachel Norton, RN

Travel critical care nurse

How Much Do Travel Nurses Make?

Courtney Smith-Kimble

Contributing Writer

Learn about our editorial process .

Updated September 27, 2023

travel nurse salary in different states

Are you ready to earn your online nursing degree?

Travel nursing offers a unique work experience with the opportunity to earn above-average hourly wages. These wages may even exceed those of other registered nurses (RNs) with the same education and credentials.

Travel nurses are typically employed by travel nursing agencies and work assignments across the country wherever nurses are needed. Because each assignment is different, the total annual income for travel nurses can vary significantly. Factors include the details of the pay package, where the assignment is located, and nursing specialty.

On this page you will find the most recent information about travel RN salaries, benefits, specialties, and the states with a high demand for travel nurses.

Fast Facts About Travel Nurses

  • Travel nurses generally earn as much or more than staff nurses with the same experience and qualifications.
  • Lodging reimbursement and tax advantages impact travel nursing salaries.
  • The most in-demand travel nursing specialties include labor and delivery, emergency room, and medical-surgical/telemetry.

Average Pay for Travel Nurses

The average travel nurse salary varies greatly depending on the work assignment. Depending on travel location, these practitioners can earn between $3,000 and $7,000 per week, averaging a 36-hour work week. According to Vivian , a healthcare jobs marketplace, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), travel nurses earn jan average of $2,183 per week, while RNs earn a mean hourly wage of $42.80. However, aspiring travel nurses should note that living on the road leads to additional personal expenses, so the increase in pay accounts for living accommodations.

Max Weekly Pay

Average Total Weekly Pay

Source: Vivian , September 2023

Featured Online MSN Programs

Travel nursing pay explained.

Travel nurse pay differs from full-time nursing positions because agencies offer hourly rates for each assignment, meaning RNs can shop around and find opportunities with ideal pay. In contrast, RNs working full time at hospitals, physicians' offices, and other facilities usually rely on raises or additional education to increase their earning potential.

Practitioners considering this role also need to explore what take-home pay looks like for travel nurses . Nursing agencies set their own conditions, so pay packages vary. For instance, organizations may offer an hourly base pay with additional stipends to cover housing or meals, while other companies may offer a higher hourly rate to account for additional expenses.

Highest and Lowest Paying States for Travel Nurses

Travel nurse salaries vary by state and region. Locations in need of RNs typically offer more competitive wages. In fact, the popularity of a particular region can influence travel nurses' earning potential. Less popular locations may pay more, while desirable locations may pay less. Likewise, states with a higher cost of living offer higher wages relative to living costs.

According to 2023 data from Vivian, the top-paying states for travel RNs included New Jersey , California, and Alaska. Practitioners also want to consider the highest-paying specialties to determine earning potential which may vary by state. The following section includes the top specialties in demand.

Highest Paying Travel Nurse Specialities

Typically, nursing specialties that lack licensed practitioners offer more pay than other specialties, which further increases earning potential for travel nurses. Higher acuity facilities also offer higher pay, as they need skilled practitioners who can meet their patients' needs. Here are five in-demand specialties for travel nurses.

Labor and Delivery

Emergency room, medical-surgical/telemetry, critical care – intensive care unit, operating room registered nurse, 4 ways to increase pay as a travel nurse.

While travel nurse pay may exceed traditional full-time RN salaries, travel nurses can additionally increase their earning potential by considering factors like demand for specialties, understaffed or unpopular shifts, and locations in need of skilled RNs.

Travel nurses should examine the full benefits package to determine if jobs can provide sufficient take-home pay. For instance, regions with a high cost of living may impact how much practitioners actually earn if stipends do not cover all costs.

Frequently Asked Questions: Travel Nursing Salaries

How much does a traveling nurse make per year.

Travel nurse salaries vary significantly, especially since the outbreak of COVID-19. Factors that can influence earning potential include geographic location and specialty. However, travel RNs should anticipate working 46 weeks a year and earning about $2,183 on a weekly basis .

Do travel nurses get paid more?

Travel nurses typically earn more than full-time salaried RNs because they often take job assignments where there is a nursing shortage. Travel nurse agencies also pay practitioners by the hour and offer additional benefits, including housing and meal stipends.

Is travel nursing worth the money?

Travel nurses generally earn more than salaried RNs. However, practitioners should consider their lifestyle as well. For instance, an RN with a family may not feel the additional pay outweighs time at home, while another practitioner may find the pay suitable and enjoy the travel opportunities.

Do travel nurses get time off?

Travel nurses often do not receive time off since they work hourly and take temporary job assignments. While assignments vary, travel nurses should plan to work for 8-26 weeks at a time. Most travel nurses schedule time off between job assignments.

Learn More About Travel Nurses

NurseJournal.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Whether you’re looking to get your pre-licensure degree or taking the next step in your career, the education you need could be more affordable than you think. Find the right nursing program for you.

Popular Nursing Resources

Resources and articles written by professionals and other nurses like you.

Application deadline for pre-licensure programs: March 15th, 2024 .

Nightingale college logo

Travel Nurse Salary by State: How Much Do Travel Nurses Make Across the US in 2024?

Posted on: May 20, 2021; Updated on: Jan 17, 2024

Travel Nurse Salary by State: How Much Do Travel Nurses Make Across the US in 2024?

Traveling nurse is a profession fit for those who like to combine work and leisure. It requires nurses to go to healthcare facilities that struggle with personnel shortage and work there for a specific amount of time. These assignments usually last from 4 to 13 weeks, during which most travel nurses perform tasks similar to those of a regular RN.

The travel nurse profession is one of the most sought out nurse professions out there, not only for the benefit of traveling the world but also because of the competitive wages it offers.

If you’re interested in becoming a travel nurse you need to either earn an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which might soon become the norm for registered nurses in many states.

Become a learner in our accredited BSN Program and embark on your traveling nurse journey today!

Is a Travel Nurse Salary Really That Good?

Travel nurses typically earn far more than regular nurses and their contracts include different base pays and benefits such as paid housing and travel costs reimbursement.

This is why calculating the annual salary of a travel nurse is a bit tricky. However, ZipRecruiter , one of the top job platforms out there, managed to collect data on travel nurse salaries across all 50 states of the USA.

In January 2024, ZipRecruiter reported that the average annual pay for a Travel Nurse in the United States is $121,710 , with a monthly wage of $10,142 , and an hourly wage of $59 .

tavel nurse salary in the us

The travel nurse salary you may expect will vary depending on the percentile you find yourself in, with top earners in the field taking home around $66,000 more than travel nurses in the bottom percentile .   

Here is a breakdown of the expected traveling nurse salary based on performance percentiles:

A travel nurse’s salary will also be affected by the place of employment and state they reside and work in. Next, we will look at the variation in salaries for travel nurses based across the 50 US states.

How Much Do Travel Nurses Make By State?

The highest paying state for travel nurses is New York , with a $135,031 travel nurse annual salary with an hourly wage of $64.92 . This may be the case because the Big Apple is one of the most expensive US states to live in. Since travel nurses' wages include both housing and travel expenses , it makes sense that the most expensive states to live in are the ones that offer the highest pay for travel nurses.

On the opposite end, Florida has a $91,074 travel nurse annual salary (with a $43.79 hourly wage), which makes it the lowest paying state in America.

Here is a list with the best and worst paying states for travel nurses, ranked from highest to lowest pay:

  • Annual salary: $64.92
  • Monthly pay: $11,252
  • Hourly wage: $135,031
  • Annual salary: $63.80
  • Monthly pay: $11,058
  • Hourly wage: $132,707
  • Annual salary: $130,341
  • Monthly pay: $10,861
  • Hourly wage: $62.66
  • Annual salary: $126,575
  • Monthly pay: $10,547
  • Hourly wage: $60.85
  • Annual salary: $125,217
  • Monthly pay: $10,434
  • Hourly wage: $60.20
  • Annual salary: $124,240
  • Monthly pay: $10,353
  • Hourly wage: $59.73

Pennsylvania

  • Annual salary: $123,669
  • Monthly pay: $10,305
  • Hourly wage: $59.46

Massachusetts

  • Annual salary: $122,156
  • Monthly pay: $10,179
  • Hourly wage: $58.73
  • Annual salary: $121,382
  • Monthly pay: $10,115
  • Hourly wage: $58.36
  • Annual salary: $120,934
  • Monthly pay: $10,077
  • Hourly wage: $58.14

New Hampshire

  • Annual salary: $120,647
  • Monthly pay: $10,053
  • Hourly wage: $58.00
  • Annual salary: $119,997
  • Monthly pay: $9,999
  • Hourly wage: $57.69

North Dakota

  • Annual salary: $119,877
  • Monthly pay: $9,989
  • Hourly wage: $57.63
  • Annual salary: $119,111
  • Monthly pay: $9,925
  • Hourly wage: $57.27
  • Annual salary: $118,043
  • Monthly pay: $9,836
  • Hourly wage: $56.75
  • Annual salary: $117,602
  • Monthly pay: $9,800
  • Hourly wage: $56.54
  • Annual salary: $116,968
  • Monthly pay: $9,747
  • Hourly wage: $56.23
  • Annual salary: $115,975
  • Monthly pay: $9,664
  • Hourly wage: $55.76
  • Annual salary: $114,771
  • Monthly pay: $9,564
  • Hourly wage: $55.18
  • Annual salary: $114,453
  • Monthly pay: $9,537
  • Hourly wage: $55.03
  • Annual salary: $114,294
  • Monthly pay: $9,524
  • Hourly wage: $54.95
  • Annual salary: $113,577
  • Monthly pay: $9,464
  • Hourly wage: $54.60

South Dakota

  • Annual salary: $113,297
  • Monthly pay: $9,441
  • Hourly wage: $54.47
  • Annual salary: $111,865
  • Monthly pay: $9,322
  • Hourly wage: $53.78
  • Annual salary: $111,315
  • Monthly pay: $9,276
  • Hourly wage: $53.52

Rhode Island

  • Annual salary: $111,146
  • Monthly pay: $9,262
  • Hourly wage: $53.44
  • Annual salary: $110,939
  • Monthly pay: $9,244
  • Hourly wage: $53.34
  • Annual salary: $110,469
  • Monthly pay: $9,205
  • Hourly wage: $53.11
  • Annual salary: $109,735
  • Monthly pay: $9,144
  • Hourly wage: $52.76

Connecticut

  • Annual salary: $108,976
  • Monthly pay: $9,081
  • Hourly wage: $52.39
  • Annual salary: $108,771
  • Monthly pay: $9,064
  • Hourly wage: $52.29
  • Annual salary: $107,945
  • Monthly pay: $8,995
  • Hourly wage: $51.90

Mississippi

  • Annual salary: $107,802
  • Monthly pay: $8,983
  • Hourly wage: $51.83
  • Annual salary: $107,540
  • Monthly pay: $8,961
  • Hourly wage: $51.70
  • Annual salary: $106,277
  • Monthly pay: $8,856
  • Hourly wage: $51.09
  • Annual salary: $106,005
  • Monthly pay: $8,833
  • Hourly wage: $50.96
  • Annual salary: $105,533
  • Monthly pay: $8,794
  • Hourly wage: $50.74
  • Annual salary: $104,121
  • Monthly pay: $8,676
  • Hourly wage: $50.06

South Carolina

  • Annual salary: $103,067
  • Monthly pay: $8,588
  • Hourly wage: $49.55
  • Annual salary: $102,909
  • Monthly pay: $8,575
  • Hourly wage: $49.48
  • Annual salary: $102,199
  • Monthly pay: $8,516
  • Hourly wage: $49.13
  • Annual salary: $102,065
  • Monthly pay: $8,505
  • Hourly wage: $49.07
  • Annual salary: $101,486
  • Monthly pay: $8,457
  • Hourly wage: $48.79

North Carolina

  • Annual salary: $100,940
  • Monthly pay: $8,411
  • Hourly wage: $48.53
  • Annual salary: $99,788
  • Monthly pay: $8,315
  • Hourly wage: $47.98
  • Annual salary: $96,957
  • Monthly pay: $8,079
  • Hourly wage: $46.61
  • Annual salary: $96,919
  • Monthly pay: $8,076
  • Hourly wage: $46.60

West Virginia

  • Annual salary: $95,511
  • Monthly pay: $7,959
  • Hourly wage: $45.92
  • Annual salary: $92,113
  • Monthly pay: $7,676
  • Hourly wage: $44.29
  • Annual salary: $91,074
  • Monthly pay: $7,589
  • Hourly wage: $43.79

What Are the Highest Travel Nursing Jobs in 2024?

According to ZipRecruiter , the highest paying jobs in traveling nursing are received by NICU and PACU travel nurses , with annual salaries reaching $154,500 and $147,500, respectively. At the other end of the spectrum, the salary for a visiting nurse ranges from $70,000 and $105,500 per year, being the lowest in the industry.

Here is an overview of the travel nurse salary ranges, based on the specialization and role they occupy:

If you want to discover the 20 best-paying positions as a travel nurse, read our Highest Paying Travel Nursing Jobs in the US article and orient yourself towards the best career choice, from a financial perspective.

Is the Travel Nurse Salary Better Than for Other Nursing Staff?

Travel nurses take home $32,700 more annually, compared to registered nursing staff, the difference being equivalent to making $16.2 more per hour. Additionally, traveling nurses make on average $740 less per year than nurse midwives, and $2,970 less per year than nurse practitioners.

So, is it better to be a travel nurse or staff nurse? From an economic standpoint, the answer is a clear yes , as travel nurses can win considerably more on average and have greater opportunities for advancement than staff RNs. And, since both job positions have similar academic requirements, you can simply earn a lot more with your ADN .

The downsides to a higher travel nurse salary are a lack of flexibility in working hours, less job security and varying pay, lack of paid leave, and many other benefits that come with a stabler nursing staff position. The choice between these options will depend on your priorities and ability to adapt to a more dynamic work environment.

If you’re interested in the average annual income for Registered Nurses of all career specialties, check out our Nurse Salaries in the US study and find out which are the happiest states for RNs, from a financial point of view.

2024 Travel Nurse Salary + Job Outlook

travel nurse salary in different states

Travel nurses work in specific locations for limited and usually predetermined timeframes of anywhere from 13 to 16 weeks. Though they may work in any type of facility – hospitals, doctors’ offices, and long-term care facilities – they get to choose where they work, which helps prevent boredom. Travel nurses also earn handsome salaries that rival the average salaries of BSN-educated registered nurses (RNs). Here, you will learn more about the average travel nurse salary and what you can expect if you choose this exciting career path.

How Much Does a Travel Nurse Make?

Salary for different types of travel nurses, what other benefits will you receive as a travel nurse, how to boost your travel nurse salary, 10 best states to work for travel nurses + salary, travel nurse salary by state – highest to lowest, travel nurse salary by city, what are the 10 best travel nursing agencies to work for in the united states, what does the future look like for travel nursing jobs.

  • Family Nurse Practitioner Salary
  • Licensed Practical Nurse Salary
  • Nurse Anesthetist Salary
  • Nurse Practitioner Salary
  • Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Salary
  • RN to BSN Salary
  • Registered Nurse Salary

How Much Do Travel Nurses Make?

Learn how much the average travel nurse makes in different states, how it compares to staff nursing salaries, and which specialties pay the most.

travel nurse salary in different states

Travel nurses typically make between $81,000 and $128,000 a year and have an average annual income of $105,021.  If we dig even deeper into the data from Zip Recruiter, we see that in the United States in 2023, travel nurses earn, on average: 

  • $50.49 per hour
  • $2,391 per week 
  • $105,021 per year

What you can make as a traveler varies by nursing specialty, location, demand, and more. Travel nurse pay typically consists of an hourly rate in addition to stipends and reimbursements for housing and living expenses. These stipends can be tax-free , adding to higher take-home pay due to lower taxation.  

With all of the factors affecting travel nurse pay- it is super important to stay up-to-date on the latest information. Pay is important. Whether you are new to the traveling world or a travel nurse veteran, it can be complicated.  

As a travel nurse, you are valuable. You bring unmatched flexibility, skill, and knowledge- and meet an essential need in today’s healthcare climate. Patients continue to receive high-quality care despite regional staffing challenges, and healthcare systems experiencing staffing crises keep functioning- because of travel nurses. 

At Trusted, we are transparent about our pay policies and work hard to ensure our travelers are always paid what they are worth. We want you to be aware of and empowered by the value you bring to patients and healthcare systems. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about travel nurse pay! 

‍How Much Do Travel Nurses Make a Year? 

According to Zip Recruiter, the average annual travel nurse pay clocks in at: 

  • New York, along with other states that have a higher cost of living, tend to have the highest travel nurse salaries, averaging at $128,000 per year. 
  • Other states with lower costs of living, such as Arkansas, typically clock in with an average travel nurse salary of $81,000 per year. 

Factors like how many contracts, how many weeks are worked, and how much time off you take affect your annual pay. Travel nurses are not salaried employees- travel nurses get paid an hourly wage, plus stipends and reimbursements, which vary from contract to contract.  Your specialty and location are also important factors. 

How much a travel nurse works in a year is totally up to you! Flexibility is one of the greatest benefits of being a travel nurse. While taking little time off between contracts will undoubtedly lead to more annual pay, many travelers enjoy extended periods of not working. No matter what your decision is, your Nurse Advocate at Trusted will support you. At Trusted, you will never be rushed into beginning another contract once you have finished one. Let us know what you want and when you want it, and we will help you find it! 

How Much Do Travel Nurses Make an Hour?

How much a travel nurse earns per hour varies by location, specialty, and demand. According to Zip Recruiter, the hourly average pay for travel nurses is: 

  • States with a higher cost of living can have average pay rates of $61.67 per hour or more.
  • States with a lower cost of living lean toward an average pay of $39.04 per hour.

Keep reading to discover how location, specialty, and need impact travel nurse pay. We’ll take a closer look at these factors later in this post. First, we want to review travel nurse pay at Trusted and ways you can maximize your take-home pay.

How Much Do Travel Nurses Make Working with Trusted Health? 

We know that we’re providing a lot of data and numbers, and that is because we want to be fully transparent with your pay information. On that note, here’s more specific data to show you what travel nurses make when they work with Trusted! 

The following graphs reflect the average gross pay (taxable and non-taxable earnings) from nurses working contracts with Trusted thus far in 2023, organized by highest paying state and specialty. This is how traveling at Trusted Health compares: 

Top Five Highest-Paid States for Travel Nurses at Trusted Health

Top five highest-paid specialties for travel nurses with trusted health.

Want more details and information? Check out our Salary Guide .  

Maximizing Your Take-Home Pay as a Travel Nurse

How much you make as a travel nurse is positively impacted by the tax benefits available for traveling professionals. Here are some of the key tax advantages of travel nursing that maximize your pay:

  • Non-Taxable Stipends: Travel nurses receive tax-free stipends to cover expenses like lodging, travel reimbursement, meals, and incidentals. A traveler will often receive both a housing stipend and a daily stipend, or “per diem.” Stipends are calculated based on government-set rates specific to the location of your assignment. Stipends are meant to benefit a traveler who is duplicating living expenses while working away from home. 

Since these stipends are not considered taxable income, they can significantly increase your overall earnings.  If you have questions about whether or not you qualify for tax-free stipends, be sure to read our guide on travel taxes and check-in with your tax advisor! 

  • Lower Taxable Rates: Travel nursing pay packages often combine taxable and non-taxable components. Typically, your hourly rate is taxable, and stipends are non-taxable. 

Since taxable rates for travel nurses tend to be lower than regular staff nursing rates, a smaller portion of your total salary is subject to taxation. This effectively reduces your tax liability and increases your take-home pay!

It's important to note that tax laws and regulations can be complex and subject to change. It is highly recommended to consult with a qualified tax professional or accountant specializing in travel nursing to ensure you understand and maximize your tax benefits per current regulations and your personal situation.

Factors Affecting Travel Nurse Pay

When choosing a travel nurse assignment, it's important to consider the factors that impact your pay package. We’ve mentioned specialty, location, and demand. Let’s take a closer look at how and why these factors affect your pay, plus a few more.  

1. Specialty 

Your nursing specialty is a key factor determining how much you can make as a travel nurse. The specialization and expertise required in certain areas of nursing often translate into higher compensation. Some specialties may also require travelers to take call, which also affects total pay. 

2. Location

How much travel nurses make varies across different states and cities. Just as pay varies across assignments, the cost of living does, too. Some of the highest-paying states and top-paying cities are often the most expensive to live in. When contemplating a contract, it is important to look at how much you will make there and how much you expect to spend there. 

Pay can differ from location to location based on local regulations. Stipends are calculated based on government-set rates specific to a location. A higher cost of living translates to a higher living and housing stipend for travel nurses. 

Overtime laws also vary from state to state. For example, in California, nurses often receive 1.5x their standard rate for any hours worked beyond eight in a day, with 2x their regular rate for hours above 12 in a day. In most other states, overtime pay doesn’t begin until 40 hours per week.

3. Facility Need

When the need or demand for travel nurses is high, facilities may offer premium pay rates to attract travel nurses and accommodate this high demand. This is why you will see different rates for the same travel nursing specialty at different facilities, even within the same city. Rates will fluctuate with supply and demand, and with a particular facility and unit’s level of need.  

Facility need will increase during public health crises. This occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic- when nursing shortages and the demand for nurses were at an all-time high, travel nurse pay was as well. 

Another example of this is during extreme staffing crises, such as strikes . When nurses at a facility are striking, that facility’s demand for nurses will be exceedingly high. Because of this, pay to cover striking facilities is also very high. However, strikes are often short-term in length and are unpredictable in nature. 

4. Shift Type

How much you make as a travel nurse can be affected by the shift you work.  The overall need on the shift available for you as a traveler will impact the rate offered to fill the role.  For example, a facility may have trouble fully staffing their less desired shifts, like night shifts or weekends, so they will likely offer higher pay rates to fill these staffing gaps. 

5. Choice of Agency 

As a travel nurse, one of the most critical choices that can affect how much you make is your choice of travel nurse agency. Travel nurse staffing agencies work to help match travel nurses with contracts, and some agencies have larger overhead expenses than others. Other agencies simply choose to keep more profit within the company- and these factors lead to reduced pay for their nurses. 

At Trusted, we are transparent with our pay practices, and many of our nurse advocates and staff have been travel nurses in the past. We know what it's like to be in your shoes- and you won’t find slimy, pushy recruiters or low-paying contracts here! You are our most valuable resource at Trusted, and we work hard to maximize your pay and make your travel nurse experience the best it can be.

Are You Ready to Explore High-Paying Travel Nursing Opportunities?

Sign up with Trusted today to discover exciting travel nursing opportunities and take advantage of the highest-paying jobs and tax benefits available. We offer a seamless platform to connect travel nurses with top-notch assignments tailored to their preferences and career goals, and we make this process transparent, easy, and enjoyable.  

If you value flexibility and varied experiences, travel nursing can be the key to maximizing your income. Trusted knows the value, skill, and experience that travel nurses bring to the table- and we work hard to ensure our travel nurses are paid what they are worth. Whether you're seeking higher pay, exciting experiences, or the chance to explore new locations, Trusted has got you covered!

Let's start building the life you want.

We're here to help, how much does a travel nurse make.

In the realm of nursing careers, travel nurse salaries vary based on specialty, location, and level of demand. Overall, travel nurses tend to earn more than their staff nurse counterparts.  This is particularly true in larger cities and during periods of heightened demand, such as pandemics. 

The data shows that staff registered nurses earn an average of $42.80 per hour (approximately $89,010 per year). However, travel nurses can earn around $50 per hour (on average $105,021 per year). Notably, travel nursing pay packages often include a mix of taxable and non-taxable income in the form of stipends and reimbursements, resulting in a higher take-home pay due to lower taxation.

‍ Sources: US Bureau of Labor Statistics & ZipRecruiter

Find your first travel nursing job with Trusted

Maximizing take-home pay with tax-free compensation.

As a travel nurse, you can enjoy tax benefits that can positively impact your take-home pay. Here are some key tax advantages associated with travel nursing:

  • Non-Taxable Stipends: Travel nurses receive tax-free stipends to cover expenses like lodging, meals, and incidentals. These stipends, often referred to as "per diems," are calculated based on government-set rates specific to the location of your assignment and are meant to accommodate a traveler who is duplicating expenses while working away from home. Since these stipends are not considered taxable income, they can significantly increase your overall earnings.  If you have questions about whether or not you qualify for stipends, be sure to check in with your tax advisor! 
  • Lower Taxable Rates: Travel nursing pay packages often consist of a combination of taxable and non-taxable components. Since taxable rates for travel nurses tend to be lower than regular staff nursing rates, a smaller portion of your total salary is subject to taxation. This effectively reduces your tax liability and increases your take-home pay!

It's important to note that tax laws and regulations can be complex and subject to change. It is highly recommended to consult with a qualified tax professional or accountant who specializes in travel nursing to ensure you understand and maximize your tax benefits in accordance with current regulations and your personal situation.

When choosing a travel nursing assignment, it’s important to consider other factors that can impact your pay package. Most clinical nurses are hourly employees. That means the amount of money you make is directly tied to how many hours you work (this can be a good or bad thing depending on how you look at it). To understand travel nurse pay comprehensively, consider these key factors that come into play:

1. Shift Type

The choice of shift you choose to work can impact your earnings.  The need on the shift available for you to fill as a traveler will impact the rate offered to fill the role.  For example, a facility may have trouble fully staffing their less desired shifts, like night shifts or weekends, so they will likely offer higher pay rates to fill these staffing gaps. 

2. Employment Classification

Different classifications, such as staff, part-time, per diem, or travel nurse, come with varying compensation levels. While staff nurses may enjoy more consistent employee benefits, opting for per diem or travel nursing assignments can result in higher hourly compensation and enhanced flexibility. If you value flexibility and varied experience, opting for a travel nursing position can be key to maximizing your income.

Facilities may offer varying pay rates to attract professionals or accommodate short-term demand.  This is why you often see differing rates for the same travel nurse specialty at different facilities, even in the same city.  Rates do fluctuate with supply and demand as well as a particular facility and unit’s level of need. 

4. Specialty 

Nurse specialty plays a role in determining the pay of travel nurses. The level of specialization and expertise required in certain nursing specialties often translates into higher compensation.  You can find more information on specialty-based compensation within our Nursing Specialties Guide. Based on the trends that we’ve seen in Trusted travel nurse jobs over the past 2 years, these have been the top 5 highest paying specialties: 

  • Pediatric Vascular Access
  • Pediatric ICU  
  • Operating Room  
  • Labor & Delivery  

5. Location

Travel nursing pay differs across states and cities. The set stipend limits discussed above vary by city, as do laws pertaining to when overtime rates apply. For example, in California, staff nurses often receive 1.5x their standard rate for any hours worked beyond eight in a day, with 2x their regular rate for hours past 12 in a day. In many other states, overtime pay doesn’t begin until 40 hours in a week. How much money you make is only part of the equation; you also have to look at how much you can expect to spend at your travel destination. Just as travel nurse pay varies from assignment to assignment, so too does the cost of living. Often, some of the highest-paying states and top-paying cities are also the most expensive to live in. 

Top-Paying States for Travel Nurses:

‍So, where do travel nurses make the most money? We’ve listed out 5 states where travel nurse pay tends to be higher than average.  Keep in mind that travel nurse pay rates fluctuate frequently based on supply and demand and are impacted by many factors including start date, contract length, shifts per week, etc.  You’ll want to be sure to check out our Nurse Salary Explorer to compare pay between travel nurses and staff nurses in any location. 

Without further ado, here are the states with the highest average hourly pay for travel nurses! Don’t forget, these are only base rates- travelers receive tax-free stipends too! 

Average hourly rates of $61.67/hr

Experience the electric energy and endless possibilities of travel nursing in the vibrant state of New York. From the iconic streets of New York City to the scenic beauty of the Finger Lakes and Adirondack Mountains, New York also offers a diverse range of opportunities for adventure and career growth. As a travel nurse in New York, you can immerse yourself in world-class healthcare facilities, cultural landmarks, and a melting pot of diverse communities. Explore our available travel nursing jobs in New York today and embrace the excitement of the Empire State!

Average hourly rates of $52.78/hr

Embrace the sunshine and desert beauty while embarking on an exciting travel nursing journey in Arizona. Known for its awe-inspiring landscapes, including the Grand Canyon and Sedona's red rocks, Arizona offers a unique and enriching experience for travel nurses. Immerse yourself in the rich Native American culture, enjoy outdoor adventures, and discover the bustling city life of Phoenix and Tucson. Browse our available travel nursing jobs in Arizona today !

Average hourly rates of $52.77/hr

Embrace the rugged beauty of the wild west and discover travel nursing opportunities in Wyoming. From the stunning landscapes of Yellowstone National Park to the vibrant energy of Jackson Hole, Wyoming offers a unique experience for adventurous travelers. With a wide range of healthcare facilities and a high demand for nursing professionals, Wyoming provides an ideal setting to enhance your career while immersing yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors. Explore our available travel nursing jobs in Wyoming and embark on an unforgettable journey.

Average hourly rates of $52.72/hr

Indulge in the tropical paradise of Hawaii and embark on a truly extraordinary travel nursing adventure. With its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture, Hawaii offers a unique experience for travel nurses seeking both professional and personal fulfillment. From the bustling city life of Honolulu to the tranquil beauty of Kaui and the Big Island, Hawaii provides an enchanting backdrop for your nursing career. Explore our available travel nursing jobs in Hawaii today and let Trusted Health guide you towards an unforgettable experience in the Aloha State.

Average hourly rates of $51.78/hr

Immerse yourself in the rich history, music, and southern charm of Tennessee. From the lively streets of Nashville, the Music City, to the scenic beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee offers a delightful blend of urban excitement and natural wonders. Experience top-notch healthcare facilities, indulge in mouthwatering cuisine, and embrace the warm hospitality of the Volunteer State. Check out our available travel nursing jobs in Tennessee !

Source: ZipRecruiter

Ready to Explore High-Paying Travel Nursing Opportunities?

Are you ready to discover exciting travel nursing opportunities and take advantage of the competitive salaries, tax benefits, and diverse nursing specialties? Trusted offers a seamless platform to connect travel nurses with top-notch assignments tailored to their preferences and career goals. Whether you're seeking higher compensation, unique experiences, or the chance to explore new locations, Trusted has got you covered!

Sign up with Trusted Health now and start your rewarding travel nursing adventure!

Travel Nursing Basics

Travel nursing in detail, browse high paying travel nursing jobs.

travel nurse salary in different states

Traveling Nurse Salaries: Payscale By State How to Negotiate Pay

  • October 11, 2022

Though travel nurses may work in various facilities–hospitals, doctors’ offices, long-term care facilities, etc.–they can choose where they work, which helps keep life more interesting. Travel nurses have direct control over the assignments they take, influencing their salary and benefits. Some may even earn more than staff RNs with the same education and credentials.

Travel nursing salaries vary by skill level, experience, and location. In fact, travel nurse destinations are one of the prime factors travel nurses consider before taking their next assignment—the more popular locations usually mean a more competitive market but a higher payday. According to ZipRecruiter, the average traveling nurse salary in the U.S. is $118,400 a year. We can break this down into three categories:

  • Hourly: The average hourly rate for a travel nurse is about $57. However, if you’re just starting out, you could earn less than the average while more experienced travelers receive more. Working in one of the highest-paid travel nursing specialties could also increase your dollar amount. 
  • Monthly: The monthly salary for travel nurses averages $9,790. This amount may also vary depending on overtime pay, bonuses, stipends, etc.
  • Annually: As mentioned, the average traveling nurse salary in the U.S. is $118,400, with variations above and below.

It’s important for travel nurses to know how they will be compensated for their labor upfront. At Nurse First Travel Agency, we pride ourselves on being 100% transparent with our travelers to ensure they choose the best travel nurse assignment , whether for the pay, location, facility, or a combination. According to NursingProcess.Org , some states offer very competitive pay. The top five with the best average traveling nurse salaries include:

  • California travel nurse jobs ($177,040)
  • Hawaii travel nurse jobs ($153,940)
  • Massachusetts travel nurse jobs ($141,340)
  • Oregon travel nurse jobs ($141,310)
  • Alaska travel nurse jobs ($139,900)

Negotiating Travel Nurse Salaries by State

How to negotiate your travel nursing pay.

If you’re uncomfortable with the terms of your travel nurse contract , it’s time to negotiate. Negotiating as a travel nurse is important for a few reasons. If you don’t speak up, you could put yourself in less than satisfactory situations. Here are a few tips to help you find the right contract.

Find Your True Rate Of Pay

Before negotiating the pay in your travel nursing contract, you must first understand what they usually include, especially the pay packages. Fully understanding what you’re looking at will help you better compare different contracts and instill the impression that you know what you’re doing—even if you’re not sure yet. Travelers can ask for a sample contract to know what to expect from a specific facility. This will increase your chances of a successful negotiation. 

Once you understand how contracts work, you can more accurately determine the value of their pay packages. Since travel nursing pay rates often include more than just the hourly rate, make sure to read between the lines. Does the contract cover real travel expenses? What will reimbursements include? Are there contract extension bonuses and overtime and holiday pay? Some travel nurse contracts combine the hourly rate and non-taxable items into a blended rate which can be more confusing than it’s worth. Don’t be afraid to ask ALL of the questions you need answered.

Related Post: 5 Tips For Helping Travel Nurses Navigate A Contract Extension

Be Flexible

Travel nurse agencies offer different pay packages and bring various benefits to the table, so it’s okay to keep your options open—you should always have a plan A, B, and C. Doing your research and comparing each agency will help guide you in accepting or negotiating a position. This contract may have a higher pay rate, but you don’t care for the location; the other contract has a lower pay package, but the facility is highly recommended. The process can involve a little compromising. However, understanding that your agency and recruiter want to help you find your dream assignment will help put you in the best situation. 

You will always be your biggest advocate, and sometimes that means listening to your intuition. If you feel unappreciated or undervalued, address it with your agency and talk it out. If you think an assignment isn’t right for you, don’t feel pressured to take it—the best travel nurse recruiters will understand and find something better. Your needs should be a priority, and it’s okay to decline certain contracts that don’t meet them. If that seems to be a problem, there are hundreds of other agencies and travel nurse assignments to choose from. At the end of the day, you’re the one putting on the scrubs and clocking in. 

In travel nursing, you have more control over all aspects of your career—your salary is just one of them. Travel nurses should always be negotiating for themselves to ensure they make the most out of their assignments. If you’re ready to find the best travel nurse assignment for you, visit our job board for the latest travel nurse jobs in the top travel nurse locations !

travel nurse salary in different states

From a Staff Nurse to Travel Nurse: Everything You Need to Know to Expand Your Career

Travel nursing has been an in-demand career for years now, but the pandemic pushed demand for travel nurses to an all-time high.  If you’re considering making the move to travel nursing, you’re bound to have certain questions. How does travel

travel nurse salary in different states

3 Tips To Help Travel Nurses Stay Safe During The Pandemic

Nurses have been on the front lines of the pandemic since the start. Whether in traditional nursing roles, in emergency rooms, administering vaccines, or traveling, nurses have been first responders to the COVID-19 pandemic. Though the pandemic is nearing an

travel nurse salary in different states

5 Tips On How To Make Your First Assignment As A Travel Nurse Easier

Getting ready for your first assignment as a travel nurse? Congratulations! It’s an exciting time in your career and travel nursing will open up so many doors for you. If you’re already packed, have your housing situation settled, and have

travel nurse salary in different states

Travel Nurse Salary Guide | 2023

What is a travel nurse.

Travel nurses are registered nurses that work short-term contracts to fill the needs of hospitals, clinics, long-term facilities, and other healthcare institutions. Travel nurses can help when there are nursing shortages. However, it is not always a long-term solution.

Travel nursing is very enticing to those who want increased flexibility within the nursing sector that traditional bedside nursing might not offer.

Looking for open travel nurse assignments? Speak with a recruiter today!

How Much Do Travel Nurses Make?

Travel nurse salaries vary depending on the location and specialty. Most recently travel nurses have seen a decline in salaries as compared to several years ago. The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically increased wages for travel nurses, and many left the bedside in order to travel the country but also cash in on the big paychecks. While now the salaries are not as large for contracts, there are still a plethora of contracts available at a competitive wage across the country.

ZipRecruiter.com reports the national average for travel nurses is $118,400 per year. The highest-paying states are New York, California , and Idaho while the lowest reported salaries are in Louisiana and North Carolina. Even though North Carolina has the lowest travel nurse salary, the annual travel nurse salary is still more than the $77,600 national average for staff nurses according to the BLS .

But don’t forget other ways to make money as a travel nurse, such as earning points or miles on all the travel that you already have to do. We now have travel nursing credit cards just for nurses to earn while they travel.

Travel Nurse Salary by State

Salaries and stipends vary by state and city , as do housing and cost of living. Here’s a breakdown of travel nurse salaries and hourly wage for all fifty states, going from highest to lowest.

Source: ZipRecruiter.com

Find available, high-paying travel nurse opportunities.

Wages for travel nurses involve more than a straight hourly rate. Travel nurses can receive non-taxed stipends for housing and living expenses, and those stipends are paid on top of your hourly rate. Other benefits may include, depending on the staffing agency:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401K investment options
  • Sign-on, completion, and referral bonuses
  • Free continuing education courses
  • License Reimbursement
  • Weekly/Bi-weekly Pay
  • Tax Advantage Plan
  • Life Insurance
  • Liability Insurance, Disability Insurance, and Worker’s Compensation
  • 24/7 Support

It’s important to remember that travel nurses are paid (and taxed) differently than staff nurses . Travel nurses are paid through agencies, not the hospital, so you have to look at your total pay. This includes your hourly base pay + your non-taxable stipends, which is what things like housing and meals are considered.

What Does a Travel Nurse Package Include?

Travel nurse packages will vary depending on the company as well as the individual. For example, one travel nurse may take a housing stipend while another might take the company-provided houses. These small differences are important to remember when investigating travel nurse contracts and also speaking to your peers. Furthermore, some travel nurse companies will have exclusive contracts with healthcare institutions, and packages will look different based on the exclusivity.

There are three major components to all pay packages:

  • Taxable hourly pay
  • Housing Stipend
  • Meal and Incidentals Stipend

Taxable Hourly Rate

The hourly pay is the dollar per-hour amount for each hour worked. It is the taxable portion of the pay package, which is important to remember. The actual amount you are paid will vary depending on the agency. Travel nurse agencies will want to pay you the least amount possible in order to make packages look the most attractive to travel nurses. The larger the hourly wage, the more taxes are taken out and as a result less weekly income.

Housing, Meal, and Incidental Stipends

This portion of the pay package is tax-exempt since non-taxable money is not considered income. This is the most alluring part of a travel nurse pay package and where travel nurses will make the most money. This money is directly determined by the travel nurse company .

These stipends will also vary depending if you decide to take housing provided by the company or find your own. If you decide to take company-provided housing then you would not receive a housing stipend. Many travel nurses decide to take the housing stipend and then find their own living arrangements. This can help nurses take home extra non-taxable pay. But be careful, it also can be harmful.

For example, if the housing stipend is $1,200 and you find an apartment for $1,000 then you will get to keep the extra $200. Unfortunately, if housing is more than the housing stipend provided by the company then you are responsible for the difference.

Pro tip: Look at housing costs before signing your contract!

As an example, a standard total pay package could look something like this:

travel nurse salary in different states

*Assumes $20 per hour at 40 hours per week, minus taxes

Understanding Your “Tax Home”

In order to qualify for these non-taxable stipends or reimbursements, one must maintain what the IRS calls a “tax home.” A tax home is your place of residence that you maintain and pay for (either by rent or mortgage) while you are out on your travel assignment. Ideally, the IRS would like a travel nurse to take an assignment somewhere and then return to their tax home where they maintain a PRN or full-time nursing job.

Travel nurses that have a tax home will need to maintain proof of this. It’s important to keep all receipts that prove you are paying to maintain your primary residence (e.g., house sitters, utilities, home maintenance expenses).

Per IRS Publication 463 , three factors are used to determine if a location/residence qualifies as a tax home. These are:

  • You perform part of your business in the area of your main home and use that home for lodging while doing business in the area.
  • You have living expenses at your main home that you duplicate because your business requires you to be away from that home.
  • You have not abandoned the area in which both your historical place of lodging and your claimed main home are located; you have a member(s) of your family living at your main home; or you often use that home for lodging.

Most travel nursing agencies will have you sign a form stating that you do have a tax home. If you do not have a residence that you are planning on maintaining when you are traveling, you will be referred to as an itinerant worker. As an itinerant worker, you will be required to pay taxes on all income earned including stipends and reimbursements. When applying with different travel agencies, make sure they are aware of your itinerant status. You can get more information about tax homes here .

Itinerant status is not ideal and will cause a big difference in take-home pay. It can be confusing to navigate the difference between tax home and itinerant status. Speaking to a financial planner and/or accountant specializing in travel nurse pay is helpful. As a best practice, travel nurses are encouraged to return to their permanent residence between contracts.

What Factors Affect Travel Nursing Pay?

There are numerous factors that can affect travel nursing pay. Some will be in your control and others will not. These include

The specific location of the assignment most heavily influences travel nurse pay. Simply put, pay rates often reflect the cost of living in the area and also regional trends. Historically speaking, the highest-paying states for travel nurses include California , Texas , Massachusetts, Washington , and New York .

Southern states, like Mississippi and Alabama, typically have lower living costs and in turn, lower travel nurse pay. Destination locations, like Hawaii, typically do not have the most desirable pay packages because the locations are highly sought after. Companies know that there are many travel nurses who are excited about the surf and sand of Hawaii, so pay packages are reflective of that.

The travel nurse’s specialty also impacts pay. Medical surgical nurses, long-term care nurses, and clinic nurses will see significantly lower rates than other specialties, but this is generally the case even for staff nurses. Increased certifications, credentials, and skills will command higher pay. Historically speaking, the top-paying travel nurse specialties are:

  • Intensive Care Unit (ICU)
  • Labor & Delivery
  • Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
  • Operating Room (OR)
  • Post-anesthesia Care Unit (PACU)

Night shift assignments are generally more prevalent in the world of travel nursing. The increased need and the less desirable shift means that many hospitals offer higher rates for their night shift assignments. If you want to make the most money as a travel nurse, flexibility is key.

Ready to start your adventure? Sign up today and start traveling next week.

You may also like

8 Best Places For Travel Nursing In The Summer

8 Best Places For Travel Nursing In The Summer

Current Nursing Compact States 2023

Current Nursing Compact States 2023

Travel Nurse Insurance Guide

Travel Nurse Insurance Guide

10 Ways To Earn Rewards For Travel Nurses

10 Ways To Earn Rewards For Travel Nurses

Three nurses standing

Join the many nurses already traveling.

Don't miss out on your adventure..

travel nurse salary in different states

Travel Nurse Salary Guide: How Much Travel Nurses Make In 2023?

  • Last Updated: July 28, 2023

Travel nursing is a popular career path for registered nurses looking for flexibility, adventure, and higher pay rates. Travel nurses work on temporary assignments in healthcare facilities across the country, filling in gaps in staffing and providing patient care. 

One of the key benefits of travel nursing is the potential for higher salaries than permanent nursing positions, with many travel nursing assignments offering additional incentives such as travel reimbursement and housing allowances. However, the pay rates for travel nurses can vary significantly depending on various factors, including specialty, location, and experience level. 

This article will provide a comprehensive guide to travel nurse salaries, including average pay rates across different specialties, top-paying states, and ways to increase your salary. If you are interested to learn more specifics as to how much a travel nurse makes an hour, follow the guide below.

Table of contents

What is a travel nurse, lowest- and highest-paying states for travel nurses, salary based on the different types of travel nurses, salary based on experience, career outlook for travel nurses, benefits you will receive as a travel nurse, ways you can increase your travel nurse salary, what’s the bottom line.

A travel nurse is a healthcare professional who works on a temporary basis in various healthcare facilities across different locations. Travel nurses are highly skilled and experienced, often working in critical care units or other specialized areas of nursing. 

The role of a travel nurse is to provide temporary staffing support in hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities, usually for a period of 13 weeks or longer. The facility may hire them directly or work through an agency specializing in travel nursing assignments. 

Travel nurses enjoy a high degree of flexibility, as they can choose their assignments based on location, specialty, and contract length. In addition to competitive salaries, travel nurses often receive benefits such as housing, travel expenses, and health insurance. 

This career path is ideal for those who love to travel and want to gain experience working in different healthcare settings.

Travel Nurse Salary in 2023

The salary of a travel nurse may vary depending on a few factors, such as location, experience, and specialty. According to recent data, the average annual salary for travel nurses in the U.S. is $106,030 or $51/hr . However, the salary range can vary widely on the factors mentioned above, with the lowest salary reported at $31,000 and the highest at $179,500.

Location plays a significant role in a travel nurse’s salary. The cost of living and demand for healthcare services vary significantly from state to state and even within cities, which can substantially impact a travel nurse’s compensation. But how much do travel nurses make in each state?

Below you can find the list of states with the lowest travel nurse salaries . The list goes as follows: 

  • Texas $87,843
  • Nebraska $85,776
  • Idaho $85,262
  • Kentucky $82,639
  • North Carolina $81,884
  • Arkansas $81,209

Conversely, the average travel nurse salary in some states exceeds $100,000. More specifically, New York is the highest paying state for travel nurses, reaching up to $104,675, followed by Idago with $102,559, and California with $100,323.

Now that we have covered the highest and lowest paying states for travel nurses, let’s see what city travel nurses make the most money in. The first in the list of the best cities for travel nurses to make the most money is Barrow, AK, with $137,200, followed by San Jose, CA, with $133,873, and Oakland, CA, and Antioch, CA, with $132,042 and $129,387 respectively. 

Travel nurse salaries can vary based on their specialty, as some specialties require more experience, skill, and demand, resulting in higher pay rates. To provide an idea of the highest-paying travel nurse specialties, we have listed the average annual salary for each specialty in 2023:

Experience plays a crucial role in determining the salary of a travel nurse. In most cases, the more experience a travel nurse has, the higher their pay will be. 

Experienced travel nurses possess valuable skills and knowledge which can benefit the healthcare facilities they work for. As a result, many employers are willing to pay a higher salary to attract and retain experienced travel nurses.

In addition, experienced travel nurses often have a deeper understanding of their specialties and can handle complex cases with greater ease. This means they can work more independently, which is particularly valuable in rural or remote locations where staffing may be limited. Moreover, experienced travel nurses have often worked in various healthcare settings, making them adaptable and able to easily handle new situations. 

According to Zippia , travel nurses with entry-level experience earn an average annual salary of $66,600, whereas mid-level experienced travel nurses have an average annual salary of $83,700. Lastly, senior-level travel nurses can expect to earn an average annual salary of over $115,000.

The career outlook for travel nurses is positive, with increasing demand for their services in various healthcare settings. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the employment of registered nurses, including travel nurses, will grow by 6% from 2021 to 2031. 

This growth is due to an aging population that requires more healthcare services, a greater emphasis on preventive care, and advances in medical technology that allow patients to receive care outside of traditional hospital settings. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has also highlighted the need for more healthcare workers, including travel nurses, to assist with sudden surges in patient volume. Overall, travel nursing offers an exciting and rewarding career path with considerable growth and professional development opportunities.

Travel nursing comes with a range of benefits that make it an attractive career choice:

  • Travel nurses have the opportunity to work in different healthcare settings, which allows them to broaden their skills and experience.
  • Travel nurses typically earn higher salaries than their permanent counterparts, and many travel nursing assignments offer additional incentives, such as sign-on bonuses, travel reimbursements, and housing allowances.
  • Travel nurses often have greater flexibility in their work schedule, allowing them to take time off between assignments to pursue personal interests or spend time with family. Travel nursing also enables nurses to explore new cities and regions, providing a unique cultural experience.

Overall, travel nursing offers numerous benefits, making it an appealing career path for many nurses.

There are several ways that a travel nurse can increase their salary, such as:

  • Specializing in a high-demand area: Consider specializing in an area with a high demand for travel nurses, such as intensive care or emergency departments. Specializing in a high-demand area can increase your value as a travel nurse, leading to higher-paying job offers.
  • Gaining more experience in their specialty: They can achieve this by taking on challenging assignments and pursuing advanced certifications.
  • Negotiating higher pay rates when signing on for new assignments: This may involve researching typical salaries for their specialty in the location they will be working and negotiating with their agency or employer.
  • Taking on additional responsibilities: More responsibilities at work, such as precepting new staff or taking on leadership roles, can lead to increased compensation.
  • Traveling to higher-paying locations: Travel nurses can seek assignments in high-demand areas where pay rates may be higher due to a staff shortage.

In conclusion, travel nursing can be a rewarding and lucrative career path for registered nurses who enjoy new challenges and experiences. While the pay rates for travel nurses can vary depending on multiple factors, including expertise and location, there are many ways to increase your salary as a travel nurse, such as gaining experience in your specialty, negotiating for higher pay rates, taking on additional responsibilities, and more. 

It’s essential to do your research on typical pay rates for your specialty in different locations and to work with a reputable travel nursing agency that can provide you with competitive pay rates and additional benefits. With the right approach, travel nursing can offer you a fulfilling career and a comfortable lifestyle while exploring new places and meeting new people. 

Don’t wait any longer to start living your best life as a travel nurse. Take charge of your career and find your next high-paying placement in a desirable location today! 

Nurse Luke is a CRNA who specializes in Nursing content and still enjoys a very busy career with Locum, Per Diem and Travel nursing in the greater midwest. He has over 25 years of experience in the healthcare field and received his CRNA masters degree from the Mayo Clinic School of Healthcare. He is passionate about helping nurses explore the options of becoming a travel nurse as well as spending time with his Family. 

Get The Latest Nursing News In Your Inbox

Stay on top of the latest word that affects your career., more to explore.

Top Nursing Schools in Texas

Best Nursing Schools in Texas: Top 10 Picks For 2024

Many nursing schools in Texas boast high NCLEX scores, diverse degree offerings, and more. Discover the top colleges and universities here.

Travel nurse jobs in Florida

Travel Nurse Jobs in Florida: Opportunities and Growth in the Sunshine State

Travel nurse jobs in Florida offer healthcare professionals an opportunity to work in diverse settings while enjoying the state’s warm climate and rich cultural experiences.

It's time For the next step

Whether it's a new a job, or continuing your education, betternurse.org is your career partner..

travel nurse salary in different states

  • Pre-Nursing
  • Nursing School
  • After Graduation

Travel Nurses Get the Best Salaries in These U.S. States

Young Black African American female woman travel nurse talking on phone

However close you are to graduating from nursing school, it’s always a good time to consider which specialty to get into afterward. One career path to consider is travel nursing across the US. Pay is a major factor in considering which state to work in, so stick around to find out which are the highest paying states for travel nurses.

Travel nursing has become increasingly in demand for nurses in several specialties. It’s a great option for those looking for higher-paying short-term work at various medical facilities. 

The average salary varies state by state for travel nurses based on demand and specialty. The top three highest-paying states include: Idaho ($151,203), Nevada ($149,196), and Illinois ($148,382) .

Jump to Region

  • Non-Continental (AK, HI)
  • West Coast (WA, OR, CA)
  • West (ID, NV, MT, WY, UT, CO)
  • Southwest (AZ, NM, TX, OK)
  • Midwest (ND, SD, NE, KS, MN, IA, MO, WI, IL, MI, IN, OH)
  • Southeast (AR, LA, KY, TN, MS, AL)
  • Northeast (VT, NY, PA, WV)
  • East Coast (ME, NH, MA, RI, CT, NJ, DE, MD, VA, NC, SC, GA, FL)

What is Travel Nursing?

If you love being on the move and don’t mind putting in long hours, then travel nursing might be the perfect job for you. You get to work in different locations across the country – keeping your skills sharp and your options open. 

Travel nurses work in different hospitals and departments, depending on where they need to fill staffing gaps. And it’s also a way to make more money than you would as a permanent employee in any one location.

Here’s how it works: you work for a few weeks or months at a medical facility, typically under a contract. Then, once your obligations are fulfilled (or your contract is up), you move on to the next place where you’re needed.

You might even not have to worry about finding an apartment – some employers take care of housing for you .

All sorts of positions are up for travel nurses — you just have to decide which ones you want. And there are so to choose from thanks to the recent rising travel nurse demand.

National Travel Nursing Demand by State chart for travel nurses

The COVID-19 pandemic has rocked the medical world, and as a result, it’s created one of the biggest worldwide shortages of nurses.

Hospitals and other medical facilities have struggled, and continue to struggle, to find enough staff to keep their facilities running smoothly. Because of COVID-19, travel nursing, amongst other types of temporary employment, is becoming more popular than ever before.

Travel nursing agencies have stepped in to provide temporary staffing solutions for these hospitals and other medical facilities. These agencies recruit nurses from all over the country and abroad and place them in positions at various facilities, providing them with an opportunity to earn serious money.

But you don’t need an agency if you’re considering travel nursing – travel nurses can also be independent contractors.

Average Travel Nursing Salary by State

Travel nurse salaries vary widely depending on where you work, how many hours you work per week (and whether those hours are on-call), and whether you’re working in an urban or rural area. 

That’s why we’ve put together this list of the average travel nursing salary by state. We found that the national average in the US for travel nursing is $133,540/year .

Take a look at our findings below by state using Indeed’s and ZipRecruiter’s salary database:

1. Travel Nurse Salary Alaska

Employers in Alaska pay a little more than Hawaii’s, which is just slightly below the national average.

The average base salary in Alaska is: $133,316/year.

2. Travel Nurse Salary Hawaii

Although employers in Hawaii pay less than the national average, you’ll benefit from a beautiful island location.

The average base salary in Hawaii is: $126,659/year.

3. Travel Nurse Salary Washington

Although Washington state employers pay the least out of the west coast states – it’s still a great location for work, and pays more than the national average.

The average base salary in Washington is: $141,096/year.

4. Travel Nurse Salary Oregon

As the middle state of the west coast, Oregon employers pay slightly more than Washington’s, but less than California’s.

The average base salary in Oregon is: $144,423/year.

5. Travel Nurse Salary California

With its high cost of living, it’s unsurprising that California travel nurse employers pay out the most out of the west coast states. Travel nurses are in the highest demand in California, and it’s the fourth-highest paying state in the US.

The average base salary in California is: $147,633/year.

6. Travel Nurse Salary Idaho

As the number one highest paying state for travel nurses, Idaho is the way to go if salary is your top priority.

The average base salary in Idaho is: $151,203/year.

7. Travel Nurse Salary Nevada

Lying south of the highest-paying state, Nevada is the second highest-paying state in the US for travel nurses.

The average base salary in Nevada is: $149,196/year.

8. Travel Nurse Salary Montana

Montana is a beautiful state with lots of wide-open space. The cost of living is low, and the job market is strong.

The average base salary in Montana is: $119,765/year.

9. Travel Nurse Salary Wyoming

Out of all the western states, Wyoming employers pay the least for travel nurses, and is the fifth lowest-paying state in the US.

The average base salary in Wyoming is: $101,317/year.

10. Travel Nurse Salary Utah

Utah is a great option if you want to stay on the west and make well into six figures while doing it.

The average base salary in Utah is: $126,093/year.

11. Travel Nurse Salary Colorado

Despite its high cost of living (especially in the Denver area), Colorado employers pay below the national average for travel nurses.

The average base salary in Colorado is: $118,832/year

12. Travel Nurse Salary Arizona

Arizona employers pay out the most out of southwestern states, and it’s the fifth highest paying state in the US.

The average base salary in Arizona is: $145,900/year.

13. Travel Nurse Salary New Mexico

Travel nurse employers in New Mexico pay the least out of all southwestern states, but just slightly below the national average.

The average base salary in New Mexico is: $125,036/year.

14. Travel Nurse Salary Texas

As the second highest-demand state in the US for travel nurses, there are plenty of opportunities for travel nurses in Texas. And average pay is just a hair below the national average.

The average base salary in Texas is: $132,088/year.

15. Travel Nurse Salary Oklahoma

Travel nurses in Oklahoma make close to the national average pay, but with inexpensive housing options.

The average base salary in Oklahoma is: $130,724/year.

16. Travel Nurse Salary North Dakota

The cost of living is relatively low in North Dakota, and the job market is strong, so you’ll get paid well as a travel nurse.

The average base salary in North Dakota is: $131,667/year.

17. Travel Nurse Salary South Dakota

South Dakota employers offer the second lowest salary for travel nurses in the US, but still close to six figures.

The average base salary in South Dakota is: $93,853/year.

18. Travel Nurse Salary Nebraska

Nebraska has one of the lowest rates of RN per capita in the US, and is also one of the most affordable states for housing and living expenses overall.

The average base salary in Nebraska is: $123,047/year.

19. Travel Nurse Salary Kansas

Kansas is another state with low RN rates per capita, but is also among the more affordable places to live and work as a travel nurse. 

The average base salary in Kansas is: $121,537/year.

20. Travel Nurse Salary Minnesota

The cost of living is fairly low compared to other parts of the US, but higher in the Minneapolis metro.

The average base salary in Minnesota is: $126,778/year.

21. Travel Nurse Salary Iowa

If you want a better salary and lower cost of living in the midwest, consider Iowa.

The average base salary in Iowa is: $130,292/year.

22. Travel Nurse Salary Missouri

Missouri employers pay the absolute least out of all fifty states for travel nurses, but offers a lower cost of living.

The average base salary in Missouri is: $89,983/year.

23. Travel Nurse Salary Wisconsin

Wisconsin offers some great opportunities for travel nurses looking for employment, and the cost of living is quite reasonable.

The average base salary in Wisconsin is: $144,556/year.

24. Travel Nurse Salary Illinois

Illinois is the third top state in the US for travel nurse pay, making it the highest paying state in the midwest.

The average base salary in Illinois is: $148,382/year,

25. Travel Nurse Salary Michigan

Michigan is a popular choice for travel nurses to work in, and is a great place to live – whether it’s long or short-term.

The average base salary in Michigan is: $136,707/year.

travel nurse waiting outside

26. Travel Nurse Salary Indiana

Indiana employers pay over the national average, and this state is a great option for cost of living.

The average base salary in Indiana is: $136,082/year.

27. Travel Nurse Salary Ohio

Travel nurses can make some great pay here with opportunities in the Cleveland area.

The average base salary in Ohio is: $132,568/year.

28. Travel Nurse Salary Arkansas

Nursing salaries in Arkansas aren’t as impressive as those of other states, and there’s a good chance you’ll work in a rural area, like the Ozarks.

The average base salary in Arkansas is: $125,489/year.

29. Travel Nurse Salary Louisiana

Louisiana employers pay out the least out of the southeast states, and is the third lowest paying state in the US.

The average base salary in Louisiana is: $94,049/year.

30. Travel Nurse Salary Kentucky

Out of all southeast states, Kentucky employers pay the most – and at slightly above the national average.

The average base salary in Kentucky is: $135,604/year.

31. Travel Nurse Salary Tennessee

If you work near Memphis or Nashville, there are many opportunities available for making good money as a travel nurse.

The average base salary in Tennessee is: $126,282/year.

32. Travel Nurse Salary Mississippi

Travel nurses can still make six figures in Mississippi and benefit from low cost of living.

The average base salary in Mississippi is: $115,569/year

33. Travel Nurse Salary Alabama

Along with Mississippi, they are still plenty of travel nursing opportunities with six figure pay.

The average base salary in Alabama is: $118,602/year

34. Travel Nurse Salary Vermont

Vermont is a popular state for travelers because it offers an escape from dense city life, and offers decent pay for travel nurses.

The average base salary in Vermont is: $123,081/year

35. Travel Nurse Salary New York

Unsurprisingly with its high cost of living and population – New York state pays out the most in the northeast region, and is the fourth highest-demand state for travel nurses.

The average base salary in New York is: $145,327/year.

36. Travel Nurse Salary Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has a lot to offer for travel nurses, including decent pay.

The average base salary in Pennsylvania is: $125,242/year.

37. Travel Nurse Salary West Virginia

The cost of living in West Virginia is lower than other states, so you can get more out of your travel nursing pay.

The average base salary in West Virginia is: $123,979/year.

38. Travel Nurse Salary Maine

Maine is a beautiful state with lots of natural beauty and plenty of fun things to do outside of the travel nurse workday.

The average base salary in Maine is: $127,051/year.

39. Travel Nurse Salary New Hampshire

New Hampshire is an attractive destination for travel nurses who want to make good money on the northeast coast.

The average base salary in New Hampshire is: $112,004/year.

40. Travel Nurse Salary Massachusetts

Although the average pay is on the lower end, Massachusetts overs lots of culture, especially in the Boston area.

The average base salary in Massachusetts is: $108,733/year.

41. Travel Nurse Salary Rhode Island

Rhode Island is the fourth lowest-paying state in the US for travel nurses, but still makes it in the six-figure range.

The average base salary in Rhode Island is: $100,607/year.

42. Travel Nurse Salary Connecticut

Travel nurses have great opportunities in areas like Hartford or Stamford with decent pay.

The average base salary in Connecticut is: $104,433/year.

43. Travel Nurse Salary New Jersey

New Jersey employers pay well above the national average, and is a great option for east coast travel nursing.

The average base salary in New Jersey is: $143,232/year.

44. Travel Nurse Salary Delaware

Even though it’s small, Delaware has big opportunity for travel nurse positions and pay.

The average base salary in Delaware is: $140,952/year.

45. Travel Nurse Salary Maryland

Although housing can be tough to lock down on, Maryland is a great travel nurse option with above national average pay.

The average base salary in Maryland is: $142,848/year.

46. Travel Nurse Salary Virginia

Virginia offers beautiful scenery and great culture for those wanting to practice as a travel nurse.

The average base salary in Virginia is: $126,990/year.

47. Travel Nurse Salary North Carolina

North Carolina is the fifth highest-demand state for travel nurses, offering just above the national average salary.

The average base salary in North Carolina is: $134,667/year.

48. Travel Nurse Salary South Carolina

Although South Carolina employers offer less than North Carolina’s, it’s still a great option for southeast coast travel nursing.

The average base salary in South Carolina is: $125,152/year.

49. Travel Nurse Salary Georgia

Georgia employers offer close to the national average pay for travel nurses with lower cost of living. 

The average base salary in Georgia is: $131,958/year.

50. Travel Nurse Salary Florida

Last, but not least – Florida is the third highest-demand state for travel nurses, and offers decent pay.

The average base salary in Florida is: $129,859/year.

Highest Paying Travel RN Jobs to Look for

For registered nurses (RNs), these are the top paying jobs to consider if you’re getting into travel nursing. Salaries are based on a national average and vary from state to state.

Operating Room RN

An operating room registered nurse (OR RN) is responsible for ensuring the safety of patients during surgical procedures. 

This can include everything from monitoring the patient’s vital signs, to administering anesthesia, and keeping track of instruments and equipment used throughout the procedure.

The average base pay for an OR RN is: $168,184

Intensive Care Unit (ICU) RN

An Intensive Care Unit registered nurse (ICU RN) provides advanced medical care and life support to critically ill patients. 

They work with physicians to ensure that their patients receive the best possible care and treatment, including helping them determine when it’s time to transfer out of the ICU into regular inpatient care.

The average base pay for an ICU RN is: $156,837

Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) RN

A Post-Anesthesia Care Unit registered nurse (PACU RN) provides support after a patient has been put under general anesthesia during surgery or other medical procedure. 

This includes monitoring their vital signs, ensuring they’re breathing normally, and administering pain medication if needed.

The average base pay for a PACU RN is: $154,402

Emergency Room RN

An Emergency Room registered nurse (ER RN) provides emergency medical care to patients who need it immediately after being brought into an ER facility by ambulance or other means. 

They check vitals, give any necessary medications, perform tests on them (such as x-rays), and more — the list goes on. ER nurses also help coordinate patient transfers between facilities when necessary.

The average base pay for a PACU RN is: $151,634

Check out our other breakdown of nurse base pay per position . 

Take the Next Step in Your Nursing Career with Us

There’s a lot of monetary and career opportunity waiting for nursing students, like you. after graduation. Travel nursing is a great option for those looking for higher-paying short-term work at various medical facilities. And it’s important to keep salary expectations at top of mind.

But the first step into a travel nursing career is acing your classes and exams.

You’ll need more than lecture notes to help – SimpleNursing offers comprehensive resources specifically for nursing students.

Invest in a study tool that will help you carry you beyond graduation.

Unlock more resources with a free trial today .

Want to ace Nursing School Exams & the NCLEX?

Make topics click with easy-to-understand videos & more. We've helped over 1,000,000 students & we can help you too.

Share this post

Nursing students trust simplenursing.

Simplenursing student

SimpleNursing Student Testimonial

Most recent posts.

A young woman female nurse helps a older elder woman with her foot flexion and extension exercises.

Nursing School Knowledge: Flexion vs. Extension

It’s time for another anatomy lesson.  This time, we’re discussing two important movements of the…

A nurse holding an anatomical model of the tibia and fibula

Tibia and Fibula Anatomy with Labeled Diagram

Remember the song lyrics, “The leg bone connected to the knee bone, the knee bone…

A female nursing school teacher in a white lab coat holds a tablet and shows two young nursing students a chest x-ray of ribs.

Nursing School Knowledge: The Ribs’ Anatomy

Pop quiz: How many ribs does the average human adult have?  12 24 36 If…

Young female nurse tests the flexion of an older lady's ankle and foot for injury and range of motion in a hospital examination room.

Nursing School Knowledge: Inversion vs Eversion of the Foot

Imagine you’re walking down the street and suddenly trip and roll your ankle.  What just…

Find what you are interested in

travel nurse salary in different states

Travel Nurse Salary

How much does a Travel Nurse make? The average Travel Nurse salary is $83,418 as of February 26, 2024, but the salary range typically falls between $75,520 and $92,526 . Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education , certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target. 

Search Travel Nurse Jobs

How to Become a Doctor

  • View Hourly Wages
  • Adjust Travel Nurse Salary:
  • Select State
  • Select City
  • Choose Similar Job
  • Pick Related Category
  • View Cost of Living in Major Cities

Analyze the market and your qualifications to negotiate your salary with confidence.

Search thousands of open positions to find your next opportunity.

Individualize employee pay based on unique job requirements and personal qualifications.

Get the latest market price for benchmark jobs and jobs in your industry.

Search Travel Nurse Job Openings

What does a travel nurse do.

View Job Skills and Competency Data for more than 15,000 Job Titles, 18 Industries, and 26 Job Families.

Our job description management tool- JobArchitect streamlines your job description process. Say goodbye to the hassle of crafting job descriptions.

Travel Nurse Salary in Major Cities

Travel nurse salary by state.

  • Connecticut
  • District of Columbia
  • Massachusetts
  • Mississippi
  • North Carolina
  • North Dakota
  • New Hampshire
  • Pennsylvania
  • Rhode Island
  • South Carolina
  • South Dakota
  • West Virginia

Travel Nurse Salary by City

Average salary range for travel nurse, average base salary.

Core compensation

Average Total Cash Compensation

Includes base and annual incentives

View Average Salary for Travel Nurse as table

Estimate salary for travel nurse online for free.

  • Select Relevant job experience
  • Select person you report to
  • Senior Management
  • CEO / Board of Directors
  • Select Level of education
  • I have not earned a degree
  • High School Diploma or Tech Certificate
  • Associate's Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Master's Degree or MBA
  • JD, MD, PhD or Equivalent
  • Select number of people you manager

Similar Jobs to Travel Nurse

Comments about travel nurse, travel nurse frequently asked questions.

Recently searched related titles: Advance Practice Registered Nurse , Senior Technical Associate , Hedis Review Nurse

Learn more about: Compensation Packages , Employee Flight Risk , Gender Pay Gap , Job Openings for This Role

Jobs with a similar salary range to Travel Nurse : Rn , First Responder , Rn Resident

Last Update: February 26, 2024

  • Faculty Logins
  • Student Portal
  • COVID-19 Info

We’re enrolling for all classes! Email [email protected] for more information.

Indigenous Peoples Land Acknowledgement

Visit us on our social media pages! Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter

  • About Our Programs
  • Acupuncture
  • Medical Massage Therapy
  • Registered Nursing
  • Practical Nursing
  • Admission Requirements
  • Returning Alumni
  • About Financial Aid

How Much Do Travel Nurses Make? Salary & Career Outlook

17 Mar, 2023 | By: AIAM Author

Travel nursing is an exciting and unique career that offers opportunities to discover new places, gain valuable experience, and make a positive impact on people’s lives.

If you’re considering a career as a travel nurse , you may be wondering how much you can make. While there’s no single answer to this question, several factors can influence your salary as a travel nurse.

In this blog, we’ll explore the various factors that can impact travel nurse pay and provide a detailed breakdown of average salaries across the country. So, whether you’re thinking about a career in travel nursing or are simply interested in learning more about the earning potential of this field, this blog will offer valuable insights and information.

What Is a Travel Nurse?

Travel nurses are certified registered nurses working in short-term positions at hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities worldwide. These nurses fill gaps in areas with nursing shortages and are expected to perform all the duties of a traditional nurse .

If they have a specialization, they typically work within that specialization; otherwise, they are expected to:

  • Address patient concerns
  • Educate patients on health, wellness, and illnesses
  • Monitor patients’ recovery
  • Measure patients’ vital signs
  • Administer medication
  • Compile reports for doctors and other stakeholders
  • Ensure that all equipment and medical supplies are kept sterile and well-organized
  • Collaborate with the team effectively

Travel Nurse Salary

average-travel-nurse-salary (1)

The salary of a travel nurse can vary based on several factors. Firstly, the state where you practice will significantly impact your pay. Some states offer incredibly competitive salaries. For instance, a travel nurse’s salary in New York averages $125,701 per year , while other states, such as Vermont ( $94,298 ) and North Carolina ( $75,610 ), provide more modest wages.

Secondly, the city where you are assigned can also influence your salary. Some cities, like San Jose, CA, pay an average annual wage of over $127,092 annually . And, of course, your income may also increase depending on the education level and experience you bring to the table.

Highest-paying states for travel nurses

New York and New Hampshire pay travel nurses more than any other state, with median salaries totaling up to $125,701 and $116,530 , respectively. Western states, like Oregon, Alaska, and Nevada, have higher living costs, contributing to higher paychecks, with travel nurse salaries averaging around $100,000 annually .

In contrast, Southern and Midwestern states generally have lower salaries for travel nurses, primarily because of the lower cost of living in those areas. For instance, North Carolina, Louisiana, Texas, and Missouri have the lowest median annual salaries, with travel nurses earning an average salary of $75,610-$84,963 .

Salary based on the type of travel nurse

Travel nurses can perform various duties, and the salary will differ depending on that. For example, an operating room travel nurse earns the most, with an average annual salary of $181,783 per year . In contrast, a rehab travel nurse earns an average salary of $160,216 annually .

Let’s take a look at how much different types of travel nurses earn annually :

Salary based on experience

Experience is a crucial determinant of salary for travel nurses. It’s worth noting that there is a significant gap in earnings between entry-level and experienced travel nurses.

As per the latest data , the average hourly rate for a travel nurse is $40.37. However, entry-level travel nurses earn a starting salary of $31.25, significantly lower than the industry average. Conversely, senior travel nurses earn an average of $50.96 per hour, representing a substantial increase in pay compared to their entry-level peers.

When looking at the yearly income of travel nurses, the average salary stands at $83,000 , with entry-level nurses earning a starting salary of $65,000. However, as nurses climb up the ladder and attain senior status, their average salaries can reach up to $115,000 annually. Therefore, it’s safe to say that experience plays a critical role in determining a travel nurse’s salary.

How To Increase Your Travel Nurse Salary

highest-paying-travel-nursing-jobs

While this career is known for its lucrative pay, there are several ways to increase your earnings even further. Here are some steps you can take to achieve this goal:

  • Opt to get paid per diem and work extra shifts: If possible, choose to get paid per diem rather than hourly pay since this option can be more profitable. Additionally, taking on extra shifts can boost your earnings significantly.
  • Maintain nursing licenses in multiple states: Obtaining licensure in multiple states can open up more job opportunities, including higher-paying assignments.
  • Specialize in a high-demand field: Specializing in a high-demand area like surgical nursing, trauma nursing, or research can result in higher pay rates.
  • Take on challenging assignments: Some assignments may require long hours or working in underserved communities, but they often offer higher pay rates.

By implementing these strategies, you can boost your earning potential as a travel nurse and increase your overall job satisfaction.

Travel Nurse Job Outlook

As more nurses discover the benefits associated with travel nursing, including a competitive salary as well as personal and professional benefits, travel nursing is expected to continue growing. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the registered nursing profession to grow at a rate of 6% between 2021 and 2031. So, RNs now have the opportunity to fill thousands of open positions in travel nursing.

In addition, the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) found that the average age of registered nurses is 52. That means there will likely be a greater need for travel nurses as more senior nurses retire.

The Bottom Line

Travel nursing is a rewarding career path that offers a wide range of benefits, including higher pay rates, flexibility, and the opportunity to explore new places. While the salary can vary depending on various factors, such as the location, facility, and level of experience, travel nurses can expect to earn more than regular nurses due to their unique skill set and willingness to take on temporary assignments in different parts of the country.

As healthcare continues to evolve and the demand for travel nurses increases, this trend is likely to continue, making travel nursing an attractive option for those seeking to advance their career while experiencing new adventures.

Interested in becoming a travel nurse ? Join our registered nursing program for a holistic approach to patient care, or click here if you need extra information regarding the program.

Subscribe to our newsletter for updates!

Request more information.

Radio Iowa

Iowa House backs pay caps for traveling nurses

by O. Kay Henderson | Feb 28, 2024 | Health & Medicine , News , Politics & Government

travel nurse salary in different states

The Iowa House has voted to set limits for the pay of temporary nursing staff working in Iowa hospitals and nursing homes.

A traveling nurse could be paid no more than 150% of the statewide average wage being paid to full-time health care staff who provide nursing services. The bill is a priority for House Republicans, who contend temp agencies are reaping too much of the extra money the legislature has provided nursing homes.

Representative Timi Brown-Powers, a Democrat from Waterloo, is a therapist at Covenant Medical Center in Waterloo, She said the bill addresses a big budget problem for hospitals and nursing homes. “It’s a morale issue for health care workers that have been there, stuck in there …working alongside traveling nurses making three or four times what they’re making,” Brown-Powers said.

The bill passed on an 80-17 vote. Representative John Forbes, a Democrat from Urbandale who opposed the bill, said there appeared to be some price gouging going on as health care employment agencies responded to workforce vacancies during the pandemic. “My concern is that if, in the future, we are putting caps or telling businesses how much they can charge for services, the businesses may not want to do business in Iowa,” Forbes said.

None of the House Republicans outlined their reasons for voting for the pay caps during the six-minute-long debate of the bill, which now goes to the Senate for consideration.

Share this:

Search this site, recent news.

  • State universities dealing with delays in FAFSA information being released
  • Meteorologist says Iowa countryside is ‘extremely combustible’
  • Iowa’s Sandfort claims pair of weekly honors
  • Iowa’s Clark is B1G Player of the Week
  • ‘Iowa Poll’ finds majority hold favorable view of AEAs

By continuing to use our website, you are consenting to Cookies being placed on your device. If you do not want Cookies placed on your device, we suggest you exit our website

travel nurse salary in different states

What is the Highest Salary for States with Radiologic Techs?

travel nurse salary in different states

Table of Contents

As a radiologic technologist or technician, you may wonder how potential earnings are accounted for in different states. With Health Carousel Nursing & Allied Health, we encourage allied health professionals to explore travel assignments and weave their way around the favorable wage scales. This article is dedicated to guiding radiologic techs through the average annual salaries in various states, the impact of different factors on salaries, and comparisons across states.

Highest-Paying States For Radiologic Technologists

As allied health professionals, radiologic technologists are generally well-compensated across the United States. However, some states stand out as especially lucrative for these hardworking specialists due to their overall higher cost of living. Some of the highest-paying states are:

  • California: With several major hospitals and healthcare facilities, this state leads the pack with the highest rad tech salary. It's a notable place for radiologic technologists seeking good remuneration and professional growth.
  • Hawaii: Balancing work and relaxation might seem far-fetched, but not in Hawaii. This paradise offers not only beautiful landscapes and relaxation spots but also stands as a top-paying state for rad techs.
  • Massachusetts: As a state that values medical expertise, Massachusetts provides competitive salaries for radiologic technologists.
  • Oregon: In Oregon, rad techs are highly rewarded for their services, making it a favorable place to practice.
  • Alaska: Despite being known for its harsh climate and isolated living conditions, Alaska's high salaries for radiologic technologists can't be overlooked.

How Rad Tech Salary is Determined in Different States

Determining the rad tech salary in different states involves understanding several underlying factors. These include supply and demand for radiology services, population density, living costs, and the presence of healthcare facilities. States with a higher cost of living generally offer greater pay scales to accommodate this. However, states with a lower cost of household maintenance might have competitive salaries to attract and retain medical professionals.

Furthermore, areas with numerous health centers typically need more radiologic technologists, increasing demand and, therefore, salaries. Also, states with a higher elderly population may necessitate more rad techs due to their increased susceptibility to conditions requiring radiologic technology.

{{cta-light-with-image}}

Median Annual Wage for Radiologic Technologists in the Highest-Paying States

The median annual wage varies significantly from state to state due to the factors mentioned earlier. However, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics :

  • California stands at the top with a median annual wage of around $99,680.
  • Hawaii follows, with the median annual wage for rad tech jobs being approximately $88,440.
  • In Massachusetts, the median annual salary stands at around $85,800.
  • Oregon's median annual wage is higher than the national average, at approximately $84,540.
  • Alaska sits just above the national average, with a median annual wage of around $73,000.

How the Average Annual Salary for Rad Techs Compare Across States

The average annual salary for Rad Techs across the country is approximately $70,240 , as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, it's essential to consider that these values can vary significantly from state to state due to the variety of factors influencing pay. As a radiologic technologist in one of the highest-paying states mentioned earlier, you can expect to earn significantly more than this national average.

In the end, the financial remuneration of radiologic technologists in different states reflects the demand for their skills and the cost of living in these areas. With professional development and support, such as those provided by Health Carousel Nursing & Allied Health, rad techs can enhance their expertise and, in turn, their earning potential and have a lucrative career.

How Does the Average Hourly Salary for Radiologic Technicians Compare Across High-Paying States?

When looking at the hourly wage, it's notable that radiologic technicians in higher-paying states earn significantly more than the national average. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics :

  • The average hourly wage for radiologic technicians in California is approximately $47.
  • In Hawaii, radiologic technicians earn around $42 per hour on average.
  • Massachusetts offers an average hourly wage of about $41.
  • In contrast, Oregon pays about $40 per hour on average.
  • Alaska, akin to Oregon, also offers an average hourly wage of about $35.

An understanding of these differences in wages across various states can help medical professionals such as radiologic technologists make informed career moves. Programs like Health Carousel's Work Study can assist in gaining insights and fostering learning while having a robust support system.

Variations in Salary for Different Radiologic Technicians

The radiology field offers numerous specializations, with each correlating to different salary scales. Considering the average hourly wage and annual salary across the highest-paying states for radiological technologists, we observe clear distinctions between different roles.

Whether one is a radiologic technician, an x-ray tech, or a CT technologist, the pay scale often varies based on the respective expertise and skills required for each role.

X-Ray Tech Salaries Across these High-Paying States

The average annual salary for X-ray techs in the highest-paying states also exhibits considerable variation, highlighting the impact of geographic location on pay. Some states compensate X-ray technicians more generously, matching the high cost of living in these regions.

X-ray tech jobs in these states command higher compensation due to the skilled nature of the work. The ability to operate complex machinery and interpret X-ray results is a skill that is rewarded in these regions.

How Cost and Work Setting Affect Radiologic Technicians' Salaries

Factors such as cost of living and work setting significantly influence the average salary for radiologic technicians. Salary packages tend to adjust according to living costs, and work settings imply varied responsibilities, leading to differences in pay.

How does the Lower Cost of Living Impact the Radiologic Technologist's Salary in these States?

As expected, the lower cost of living in certain states results in a relatively lower average annual salary for radiologic technologists. These areas can afford to pay slightly less than other high-cost areas owing to the lower expenses incurred by the professionals living there.

Although the raw salary numbers might look lower in these states when adjusted with the cost-of-living index, radiologic technologists often find themselves enjoying a comparable or even better quality of life compared to their counterparts in higher-paying and equally higher-cost regions.

Start Your Travel Radiologic Tech Career With Health Carousel Nursing & Allied Health

Traveling the country while having a meaningful career isn't impossible. Partnering with a traveler-nominated top 10 allied health staffing agency like Health Carousel Nursing & Allied Health can help you launch your travel radiologic tech career.

We have expert recruiters who have experience working with allied health professionals looking to obtain travel assignments that will help grow their careers. Working with us can make the job search less stressful, and we offer benefits such as:

  • Job postings that align with your education, experience, and aspirations
  • A Full Circle of Support
  • Competitive pay rates
  • Comprehensive health and wellness plans

Your dream travel radiologic technologist career is within reach with Health Carousel Nursing & Allied Health. Check out On Demand , our powerful web app, where you can search and apply for travel radiologic technologist jobs nationwide.

What state pays the most for radiology tech?

California is the state that pays the most for radiology technologists, according to the BLS. Other high-paying states are those with higher costs of living and large metropolitan areas.

Where are rad techs needed most?

Rad techs are most needed in areas with aging populations and high incidences of conditions requiring diagnostic imaging, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and orthopedic injuries. These areas often include urban centers with large hospitals and medical facilities, as well as rural areas where healthcare services are limited, and the demand for allied health professionals outpaces supply.

GET STARTED IN

Land your dream job faster when you travel with us. Get started with top local and national travel nurse jobs in On Demand.

mobile phone mockup

Similar Posts

Understanding the growing market for respiratory therapy jobs, understanding the growing demand for respiratory therapists, comprehensive guide to mri tech responsibilities, view top jobs in.

Search, apply and be the first in line for your dream job today.

travel nurse salary in different states

Apply to Top Jobs in

travel nurse salary in different states

Get Started in

travel nurse salary in different states

Take Control of Your Career with

travel nurse salary in different states

travel nurse salary in different states

Access not allowed

  • You are not allowed to access .

Staffing Industry Analysts

  • Login / Sign Up
  • Americas EMEA | Europe, the Middle East & Africa APAC | Asia Pacific

SIA is the Global Advisor on Staffing and Workforce Solutions

  • Home »
  • Editorial »
  • Daily News »
  • Iowa House backs travel nurse pay cap amid concerns

The Iowa House of Representatives voted to set pay limits for temporary nursing staff working in Iowa hospitals and nursing homes. The bill was passed on an 80-17 vote, according to legislative records.

The legislation, Iowa House file 2391, would prohibit healthcare staffing firms from charging more than 150% of the statewide average wage for nurses. However, the total amount would not just include the temporary nurse’s hourly wage but also include administrative fees, contract fees, transportation or travel stipends, per diems and any other costs such as overtime and taxes that a healthcare staffing firm is authorized to charge clients.

The industry is fighting the regulation.

“We’re still working on the bill in the Senate to either defeat it or mitigate the cap because the House version is not workable,” Toby Malara, VP of government relations at the American Staffing Association said.

“The 150% is just not a realistic number,” Malara said. It will make getting travel nurses into Iowa more difficult and will have a negative impact especially on rural areas, he added.

(This story was updated to include more details about the legislation.)

Copyright ©2024 Crain Communications Inc | Privacy | Sitemap

IMAGES

  1. Travel Nurse Salary 2024

    travel nurse salary in different states

  2. The Best-paying States for Nurses in 2021

    travel nurse salary in different states

  3. How Much do Travel Nurses Make? The Definitive Guide for 2020

    travel nurse salary in different states

  4. Highest Paying States for Travel Nurses

    travel nurse salary in different states

  5. How Much do Travel Nurses Make?

    travel nurse salary in different states

  6. Travel Nurse Salary

    travel nurse salary in different states

COMMENTS

  1. 25 Highest Paying States For Travel Nurses In 2024

    However, specific states consistently offer higher pay to travel nurses. The average salary for travel nurses in the United States is over $50 an hour. At $57.77, only the top ten highest-paying states for travel nurses consistently beat this average pay. The typical weekly salary for a travel nurse is $2,311, and the monthly is $10,010.

  2. Travel Nurse Salary 2024

    Location can make a huge difference in salary as a travel nurse. ZipRecruiter reports that the states that offer the highest pay for travel nurses include: New York: $128,277 annually or $61.67/hr. Arizona: $109,776 annually or $52.78/hr. Wyoming: $109,765 annually or $52.77/hr.

  3. Average Travel Nurse Salary by State & Nationally

    There are many opportunities to work as a travel RN at hospitals across the country in need of nursing staff, and these jobs can earn higher salaries than similar staff positions. Last year, a Travel RN earned a gross average weekly salary of $1,716 per week working an average of 36 hours per week.

  4. States With the Highest Salary for a Travel Registered Nurse

    Here is a list of the top 10 states with the highest average salaries for travel registered nurses: Connecticut: $102,919 per year. Nevada: $106,110 per year. Massachusetts: $111,864 per year. Rhode Island: $97,009. New Jersey: $120,721 per year. New York: $134,663per year. Alaska: $107,319 per year.

  5. What Is the Average Travel Nurse Salary by State

    We've identified 12 states where the typical salary for a Travel Nurse job is above the national average. Topping the list is New York, with Pennsylvania and New Hampshire close behind in second and third. New Hampshire beats the national average by 6.4%, and New York furthers that trend with another $19,000 (18.8%) above the $101,132.

  6. Travel Nurse Salary 2024 (State-by-State Comparison)

    Travel nurses who are registered nurses (RNs) may make as much or more than the average RN salary of $81,220 per year, while advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) salaries often exceed the annual average of $129,400. (While travel nurse positions are also available for licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and certified nursing assistants (CNAs ...

  7. What Is the Average Travel Nursing Salary by State

    We've identified eight states where the typical salary for a Travel Nursing job is above the national average. Topping the list is New York, with Vermont and California close behind in second and third. California beats the national average by 7.1%, and New York furthers that trend with another $11,069 (10.9%) above the $101,132.

  8. How Much Do Travel Nurses Make?

    The average travel nurse salary varies greatly depending on the work assignment. Depending on travel location, these practitioners can earn between $3,000 and $7,000 per week, averaging a 36-hour work week. According to Vivian, a healthcare jobs marketplace, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), travel nurses earn jan average of ...

  9. Travel Nurse Salary By State [2024]

    In January 2024, ZipRecruiter reported that the average annual pay for a Travel Nurse in the United States is $121,710, with a monthly wage of $10,142, and an hourly wage of $59. The travel nurse salary you may expect will vary depending on the percentile you find yourself in, with top earners in the field taking home around $66,000 more than ...

  10. Travel nurse salary in United States

    Average base salary. $2,098. Average $2,098. Low $1,519. High $2,897. Non-cash benefit. 401 (k) View more benefits. The average salary for a travel nurse is $2,098 per week in the United States. 205k salaries reported, updated at February 15, 2024.

  11. Travel Nurse Salary

    Salary for Different Types of Travel Nurses Not all travel nurses perform the same duties and as such the salary will differ. For instance, a travel nurse practitioner is the highest paid with an average annual salary of $174,730 per year, while an LPN travel nurse may earn less than half that with an average salary of $77,950 per year ...

  12. How Much Do Travel Nurses Make?

    Travel nurses typically make between $81,000 and $128,000 a year and have an average annual income of $105,021. If we dig even deeper into the data from Zip Recruiter, we see that in the United States in 2023, travel nurses earn, on average: $50.49 per hour. $2,391 per week. $105,021 per year.

  13. Traveling Nurse Salaries: Payscale By State How to ...

    According to ZipRecruiter, the average traveling nurse salary in the U.S. is $118,400 a year. We can break this down into three categories: Hourly: The average hourly rate for a travel nurse is about $57. However, if you're just starting out, you could earn less than the average while more experienced travelers receive more.

  14. Travel Nurse Salary Guide

    ZipRecruiter.com reports the national average for travel nurses is $118,400 per year. The highest-paying states are New York, California, and Idaho while the lowest reported salaries are in Louisiana and North Carolina. Even though North Carolina has the lowest travel nurse salary, the annual travel nurse salary is still more than the $77,600 ...

  15. Travel Nurse Salary Guide: How Much Travel Nurses Make In 2023?

    Conversely, the average travel nurse salary in some states exceeds $100,000. More specifically, New York is the highest paying state for travel nurses, reaching up to $104,675, followed by Idago with $102,559, and California with $100,323. ... Salary based on the different types of travel nurses. Travel nurse salaries can vary based on their ...

  16. Top Earning States for Travel Nurses in the U.S.A. Guide

    The average base salary in Montana is: $119,765/year. 9. Travel Nurse Salary Wyoming. Out of all the western states, Wyoming employers pay the least for travel nurses, and is the fifth lowest-paying state in the US. The average base salary in Wyoming is: $101,317/year. 10. Travel Nurse Salary Utah.

  17. Average Hourly, Annual RN Wage by State

    Average registered nursing salaries vary significantly from state to state. According to Zip Recruiter, the average travel RN salary is $106,030 annually. Travel nurse registered nursing salaries currently range between $80,000 to $127,500 depending on location and specialty. The average staff registered nurse's salary is $77,976 per year.

  18. Salary: Travel Nurse in United States 2024

    The estimated total pay for a Travel Nurse is $94,794 per year in the United States area, with an average salary of $90,289 per year. These numbers represent the median, which is the midpoint of the ranges from our proprietary Total Pay Estimate model and based on salaries collected from our users. The estimated additional pay is $4,505 per year.

  19. How to Become a Travel Nurse

    Travel Nurse Salary and Career Prospects. Travel nurse salaries are as varied as travel nurses themselves. Because you may be working in different states and even perform different nursing duties from one job to the next, travel nurses see a wide range of salaries. In general, travel nurses make more than the average RN - estimates for 2022 ...

  20. Travel Nursing Salary in the United State

    The salary range for a Travel Nursing job is from $63,336 to $85,193 per year in the United States. Click on the filter to check out Travel Nursing job salaries by hourly, weekly, biweekly, semimonthly, monthly, and yearly.

  21. Travel Nurse Salary

    The average Travel Nurse salary in the United States is $83,219 as of January 26, 2024, but the salary range typically falls between $75,341 and $92,306. ... If you'd like know Travel Nurse Salary in other cities, then please select a city in. Average Salary Range for Travel Nurse. Average Base Salary. Core compensation . 75341. 92306. 83219.

  22. How Much Do Travel Nurses Make? Salary & Career Outlook

    As per the latest data, the average hourly rate for a travel nurse is $40.37. However, entry-level travel nurses earn a starting salary of $31.25, significantly lower than the industry average. Conversely, senior travel nurses earn an average of $50.96 per hour, representing a substantial increase in pay compared to their entry-level peers.

  23. Travel Nursing Jobs

    National Salary Trends for Travel Outpatient LPN/LVN Jobs. Understanding the salary landscape is crucial when evaluating your career options. Based on historical data from the last year of posted traveling Outpatient LPN/LVN jobs, the average weekly pay was about $1,546 per week. Nationwide Facilities Hiring Traveling Outpatient Nurses

  24. Iowa House backs pay caps for traveling nurses

    The Iowa House has voted to set limits for the pay of temporary nursing staff working in Iowa hospitals and nursing homes. A traveling nurse could be paid no more than 150% of the statewide ...

  25. Radiologic Technologists: Highest Salaries by State

    As a radiologic technologist or technician, you may wonder how potential earnings are accounted for in different states. With Health Carousel Nursing & Allied Health, we encourage allied health professionals to explore travel assignments and weave their way around the favorable wage scales. This article is dedicated to guiding radiologic techs through the average annual salaries in various ...

  26. Iowa House backs travel nurse pay cap amid concerns

    Iowa House backs travel nurse pay cap amid concerns February 29, 2024 The Iowa House of Representatives voted to set pay limits for temporary nursing staff working in Iowa hospitals and nursing homes.

  27. What Does a Travel Nurse Do? (With Salary and Skills)

    Average salary for a travel nurse In Canada, the average salary for a travel nurse can vary widely due to factors such as experience, qualifications, location, supply and demand, and the type of assignment. According to Indeed, travel nurses in Canada can earn an average yearly salary of approximately $157,240. Travel nurses may also receive ...