One of the biggest draws of travel nursing is the opportunity to earn higher pay while enjoying a flexible lifestyle. Travel nurse pay includes more than just a base wage—it often comes with tax-free stipends and other financial benefits that can significantly increase your take-home pay.
If you’re considering a travel nursing career, here’s a breakdown of the structure and what makes it so rewarding.
Two Key Components of Travel Nurse Pay
1. Taxable Wages
This is your hourly rate and is subject to taxes at the federal, state, and local levels. It might look lower than a staff nurse’s wage, but don’t be discouraged—this is only part of the travel nurse pay package.
2. Non-Taxable Income
Travel nurse pay often includes non-taxable stipends for things like housing, meals, and incidental expenses. These stipends are typically paid out weekly and are not subject to income tax, which allows you to keep more of your earnings.
Understanding both the taxable and non-taxable portions of your travel nurse pay is key when evaluating offers.
Average Travel Nurse Pay
Compared to the national average for staff nurses, travel nurse pay is often higher. While permanent RNs make about $77,000 per year, travel nurses typically earn between $80,000 and $120,000 annually. Those working in high-demand specialties—like intensive care, neonatal care, or the operating room—can earn even more.
For a deeper dive into how rates vary by specialty, check out our post on high-paying travel nurse specialties.
Factors That Influence Travel Nurse Pay
Location
States with a high cost of living often offer higher travel nurse pay to match. Additionally, remote or underserved areas may boost wages to attract skilled nurses. You can explore some of the top destinations in our guide to the best cities for travel nurses.
Specialty
Nurses working in specialized areas such as critical care, labor and delivery, or emergency medicine typically earn higher travel nurse pay rates.
Experience
The more clinical experience you have, the more negotiating power you’ll have when it comes to travel nurse pay and assignments.
Stipends and Reimbursements: Enhancing Travel Nurse Pay
In addition to your base wage, travel nurse pay frequently includes non-taxable financial benefits that enhance your total compensation.
Housing Stipend
Agencies often provide housing or offer a stipend so you can secure accommodations that meet your preferences. Not sure which option is best for you? Read our full guide on travel nurse housing options.
Meals and Incidentals
This allowance helps cover daily living expenses like food, transportation, and minor necessities, which further contribute to your overall travel nurse pay.
Travel Reimbursements
Many travel nurse packages reimburse you for the cost of travel to and from your assignment, whether by car, plane, or public transportation.
Additional Perks for Travel Nurses
Licensing and Certification Support
Agencies may reimburse you for obtaining new state licenses or updating required certifications like BLS, ACLS, or PALS. Learn more about multistate licenses and compact state eligibility.
Health Insurance
Most travel nurse employers offer health benefits—including medical, dental, and vision coverage—that begin on the first day of your assignment.
Retirement Savings
Some staffing agencies include 401(k) retirement plans, giving you the opportunity to build long-term financial security while enjoying short-term financial rewards as part of your travel nurse package.
Career Growth Opportunities
Working in various healthcare environments helps broaden your skill set and boosts your resume. This can lead to higher-paying opportunities and more flexibility in the future, further increasing your travel nurse pay potential.
Why Travel Nursing Pays Off
Travel nurse pay offers a compensation structure that stands out in the healthcare industry. With competitive wages, tax-free stipends, and valuable benefits, it’s a career path that delivers both financial and professional rewards.
Understanding how travel nurse pay works—from hourly wages to additional perks—can help you make informed decisions and choose assignments that align with your goals.
Looking to boost your travel nurse pay even more? Don’t miss our resource on maximizing your income as a contract nurse.
Find Your Next Travel Nurse Assignment with Our Job Board!
Are you on the hunt for your next travel nurse gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities.
Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment
Need somewhere to stay on your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.
