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Discover the Travel Nurse Salary in New Jersey

Table of Contents

If you're a nurse considering embarking on travel assignments in New Jersey, you may be curious about the financial rewards that await. This comprehensive guide delves into the specifics of a travel nurse's salary in New Jersey, giving you a clear picture of what you can expect. With Health Carousel Nursing & Allied Health, you're empowered to choose where you want to work, advance your travel nurse career , and get back to doing what you love while experiencing financial stability and growth.

Travel Nursing in New Jersey

In New Jersey, the realm of travel nursing is burgeoning, reflecting a nationwide trend where the demand for healthcare services spikes, yet the supply of local registered nurses remains constrained. Health Carousel Nursing & Allied Health recognizes the unique position New Jersey holds, with its mix of urban hospitals and rural healthcare facilities, all experiencing varying degrees of staffing needs. Through this lens, we see New Jersey as a prime destination for travel nurses looking to expand their horizons.

Amidst this evolving landscape, Health Carousel Nursing & Allied Health stands as an empathetic ally to travel nurses. Our dedicated efforts in New Jersey, Pennsylvania , and elsewhere are aimed at ensuring that every travel nurse who partners with us finds travel nurse assignments that are not just jobs but stepping stones in their career paths.

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The Demand for Travel Nurses in New Jersey

The quest for travel nurses in New Jersey is on a significant upturn. A combination of factors, including an aging population, an increase in chronic conditions, and the aftermath of global health challenges, has intensified the need for travel nurses. This demand spans across specialties, from emergency room services to geriatric care, making New Jersey a hub for diverse travel nursing opportunities.

Health Carousel Nursing & Allied Health connects registered nurses and licensed practical nurses with exclusive travel nursing jobs that not only match their skills and experience but also cater to their personal and professional aspirations.

The Benefits of Travel Nursing in New Jersey

• Competitive Salaries: New Jersey offers some of the most competitive travel nurse salaries in the country, factoring in both basic salary and overtime.
• Flexible Workday Schedules: Health Carousel supports travel nurses in New Jersey with flexible schedules, allowing for a healthy work-life balance.
• Professional Growth: With programs like Clinical Ladder and Work Study, we're invested in the continued professional development of our traveling staff.

Stepping into a travel nurse role in New Jersey with Health Carousel Nursing & Allied Health opens doors to not just exceptional job opportunities but a holistic support system designed for career and personal growth.

A Comprehensive Breakdown of Travel Nurse Salary in New Jersey

In New Jersey, travel nurse salaries are notably competitive, reflecting the high demand for their specialized skills in various healthcare settings across the state. On average, a travel nurse in New Jersey can expect to earn between $1,478 and $3,358 per week , with variations based on experience, specialty, and the specific requirements of the assignment. The average holds around $2,261, which is comparable with the national average and Michigan .

This comprehensive pay structure not only caters to their expertise but also includes allowances for housing, travel, and other incidentals, making it an attractive option for nurses looking to explore different healthcare environments while being compensated generously for their contributions.

Basic Salary and Overtime

When discussing the travel nurse salary in New Jersey, it's essential to note the competitive landscape. Health Carousel Nursing & Allied Health ensures that our nurses are rewarded with salaries that reflect their invaluable contributions. In New Jersey, the average salary for a travel nurse can vary greatly depending on numerous factors, including specialization and assignment location.

Factors that Influence Travel Nurse Salary in New Jersey

Several factors play a critical role in determining the salary of a travel nurse in New Jersey, including the nurse's specialty, the location of the assignment within the state, and the nurse's level of experience. High-demand specialties and assignments in urban areas like Newark or Jersey City typically offer higher pay rates.

Additionally, nurses with extensive experience or advanced certifications in their field can command higher wages, reflecting the value of their expertise in the healthcare marketplace. These components together ensure that travel nurse salaries in New Jersey are competitive and commensurate with the skills and contributions of these vital healthcare professionals.

Experience and Specialization

The salary landscape for travel nurses in New Jersey is multifaceted, with experience and specialization being significant factors. Nurses with years of experience and specialized skills often find themselves at the higher end of the salary spectrum. Health Carousel Nursing & Allied Health recognizes the value of specialization and experience, reflecting this in the competitive packages offered to our nurses.

Assignment Location and Duration

Another crucial factor affecting salary is the location and duration of the assignment. New Jersey's diverse healthcare environment means that opportunities can vastly differ from one region to another. Health Carousel works closely with nurses to match them with assignments that meet their financial, professional, and personal needs, ensuring a rewarding experience across all aspects.

Achieve Your Dream Career as a Travel Nurse in New Jersey With Health Carousel Nursing & Allied Health

As a nurse-nominated top 10 travel nurse agency, Health Caroseul Nursing & Allied Health is passionate about helping nurses start and succeed in their travel nurse careers. Whether you want to start in New Jersey and stay there or move around the country, we have the support you need.

Partnering with us will provide you with an abundance of benefits that are designed to help you grow your travel nursing career. Our caring recruiters know the importance of what you do and want to help you find travel positions that reflect your career goals. Some benefits we offer travel nurses are:

• Career Coaching
• A Full Circle of Support
• Personalized job postings that suit your experience, education, and career goals
• Support from a QIN-Led Team
• Clinical Ladder and Work Study programs
• Comprehensive health and wellness plans
• Competitive pay rates

Check out On Demand , our powerful web app, where you can search and apply for [insert specialty name] jobs nationwide.

What is the highest-paid nurse specialty in New Jersey?

The highest-paid nurse specialty in New Jersey is typically found in the realm of Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs). CRNAs in New Jersey can earn significantly higher salaries compared to other nursing specialties.

Can you make good money as a travel nurse?

Yes, travel nurses can make good money, often earning more than their staff nurse counterparts. The increased pay is due to several factors, including the demand for nursing in various regions, specialty areas that may require travel and the urgency of staffing needs. Travel nurses frequently receive benefits such as housing allowances and travel reimbursements, further enhancing their earning potential.

Is New Jersey a good place for travel nurses?

New Jersey is considered a desirable destination for travel nurses due to its diverse healthcare system, which includes renowned hospitals and specialized healthcare facilities. The state's location in the Northeast, close to major cities like New York and Philadelphia, also offers a rich array of cultural, recreational, and professional opportunities. With competitive salary rates and high demand for nursing professionals across various specialties, New Jersey presents an attractive option for travel nurses looking for both professional growth and a vibrant lifestyle outside of work.

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Travel Nurse Salary in New Jersey

How much does a travel nurse make in new jersey.

As of March 26, 2024, the average annual pay of Travel Nurse in New Jersey is $90,693. While Salary.com is seeing that Travel Nurse salary in New Jersey can go up to $109,482 or down to $74,069, but most earn between $81,991 and $100,528. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills and your experience levels. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.

View Travel Nurse Salary by Hour, Week, Month, Year

Salary.com provides you with accurate and diversified Travel Nurse salary data based on specialized databases to help you get a fairer salary. Click the switch button below to see more details about Travel Nurse hourly pay, weekly pay, monthly pay and so on.

• Paid Annually
• Paid Monthly
• Paid Semimonthly
• Paid Biweekly
• Paid Weekly
• Paid Hourly

Travel Nurse RN - Cardiac Cath Lab - $2,491 per week

Host Healthcare - Albany, NY

Travel Nurse RN - Telemetry - $2,350 per week

Jackson Nurse Professionals - Albany, NY

Travel Nurse RN - Cardiology - $2,267 per week

Ardor Health Solutions - Albany, NY

Travel Nurse RN - Med Surg - $1,978 per week

RTG Medical-Nursing - Albany, NY

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Highest Paying Cities for Travel Nurse in New Jersey

The metropolitan areas that pay the highest salary in the Travel Nurse profession are Secaucus, Union City, Weehawken, West New York, Cliffside Park, Edgewater, Fairview, Hoboken, Jersey City, and North Bergen.

Find Travel Nurse Jobs Near You Now

Salary.com job board provides millions of Travel Nurse information for you to search for. Click on search button below to see Travel Nurse job openings or enter a new job title here.

Jobs Near You

What does travel nurse do.

Travel Nurse provides professional nursing care to assigned patients. Records patient histories, performs various diagnostic tests, administers medications, and develops patient care plans in conjunction with other medical professionals. Being a Travel Nurse assists physicians during examinations and procedures, operating and monitoring medical equipment as necessary. Observes patients' progress and records observations in patient medical records. Additionally, Travel Nurse promotes patients' independence by teaching patients and families to understand conditions, medications, and self-care skills. May require a bachelor's degree in nursing. Requires a valid state Registered Nurse (RN) license. Typically reports to a manager or head of a unit/department. The Travel Nurse occasionally directed in several aspects of the work. Gaining exposure to some of the complex tasks within the job function. To be a Travel Nurse typically requires 2-4 years of related experience. (Copyright 2024 Salary.com)... View full job description

Employers: Job Description Management Tool

See user submitted job responsibilities for Travel Nurse.

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View Travel Nurse Salaries in Other States

Geographic variations impact Travel Nurse salary levels, due to various factors, such as cost of living, industries, market demand and company budgets. Click below to see pay differences between states.

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

Travel Nursing: New Jersey

Table of contents.

• Find Current Travel Nursing Jobs in New Jersey 2024

New Jersey Licensure Information and Requirements

New jersey ceu requirements, what is the average travel nursing salary in new jersey.

• How To Become a Travel Nurse in New Jersey With Trusted Nurse Staffing in Three Simple Steps

Why Should You Consider Becoming a Travel Nurse in New Jersey?

What are the high-demand travel nursing specialities in new jersey right now, faqs about new jersey travel nursing, find current travel nurse jobs in new jersey.

For the most up-to-date information about New Jersey nursing licensure information and requirements, please visit New Jersey’s Board of Nursing website . 

Licensure Requirements

New Jersey is a compact state, meaning, if you hold a multi-state license from another state, you can practice nursing in New Jersey. 

If you do not hold a multi-state license, you must apply for a New Jersey nursing license by endorsement . To do this, you must meet the following requirements: 

• Submit a full-face original passport photo of your head and shoulders taken within the last six months.
• Submit a copy of your birth certificate or U.S. passport.
• Submit proof of any name changes.
• Authorize New Jersey’s Board to conduct a criminal background check and/or fingerprinting.
• Submit any applicable criminal history documents.
• Provide written verification of licensure in good standing from the state in which you were licensed. This can be done via Nursys Ⓡ or using the license verification form. Submit a signed copy of your receipt and forward your results directly to the New Jersey Board of Nursing. 

APRNs applying for endorsement in the state of New Jersey must submit the following to the Board of Nursing:

1. Proof of a current New Jersey registered professional nurse license in good standing 2. A completed application form and a nonrefundable application fee of $100.00 payable by money order or check only — after the application process is completed there is also a certificate fee of $80.00/$160.00 depending on the expiration of your Registered Professional Nurse License. 3. Original official transcript(s) as proof of compliance with the Board’s education requirements — these are to be sent directly from the university/college(s) to the Board of Nursing. 4. Proof of passing the highest level national Advanced Practice Nurse Examination in the area of clinical specialty  5. Proof that all advanced nursing practice certification(s)/licensure(s) that you have held in other states are in good standing, expired, or in some other status.  

An Advanced Practice Nurse certified in any other state(s) who wishes to be certified to practice in New Jersey as an APRN must be certified by the New Jersey Board of Nursing. 

If you are planning to accept a travel nursing position in New Jersey as an RN or LPN, you can apply for a temporary license to practice in the state. This license fee is $140.00 plus additional fees if you are an out-of-state resident. 

For more information on temporary licensure, New Jersey provides nurses with this checklist .

Licensure Fees

Nurses applying for endorsement must pay $200 via check or money order to the New Jersey Board of Nursing. This fee includes a:

• $120.00 license fee 
• $75.00 nonrefundable application fee; and
• $5.00 mandatory nonrefundable Alternative to Discipline fee 

Nurse Licensure Compact Status

On November 15th, 2021, New Jersey became part of the Nurse Licensure Compact . 

Is New Jersey a Walk-Through State?

New Jersey is not a walk-through state. 

Nurses must complete a minimum of 30 contact hours during the two-year period preceding their license renewal.

New Jersey travel nurses offer competitive wages, with the average salary being $2,402 per week — but may vary slightly based on which city and specialty you work in. 

Aside from a well-paying salary, as a New Jersey travel nurse, you’ll receive benefits like travel and meal allowances, housing stipends, bonuses, and more. 

Cities in New Jersey With the Highest Travel Nursing Salaries

New brunswick.

The average salary for travel nurses in New Brunswick, New Jersey, is $3,270 per week. 

The average salary for travel nurses in Red Bank, New Jersey, is $2,846 per week. 

The average salary for travel nurses in Hackensack, New Jersey, is $2,777 per week. 

The average salary for travel nurses in Camden, New Jersey, is $2,723 per week. 

Neptune City

The average salary for travel nurses in Neptune City, New Jersey, is $2,715 per week. 

Thousands of Nurses Love Partnering with Trusted Nurse Staffing

Trusted nurse staffing is such a great company to work for and they are so easy to work with. I love using them as my first company for travel nursing!

My recruiter did an amazing job at finding the best fit for me! An outstanding job with communication, updates and ensuring all my questions were answered!!

I have been with Trusted Staffing for about 18 months now. I have essentially been working local contracts, but the experiences have been memorable. My recruiter, is always available when I have a question or concern. Travel nursing is something all nurses should experience. I can't wait until I can do some serious traveling

Every member of this company I’ve interacted with has exceeded my expectations. My recruiter, Alex, is so commutative and goes above and beyond always. I can’t imagine switching to another company!

I have had the best experience with Trusted Nurse Staffing. My recruiter Tom is amazing. He always treats me with respect and as a friend. He is on top of everything I need. And when my Dad passed away, he helped me with time off, no problem and they even sent me a beautiful comfort box that was very helpful. Fully recommend this agency.

How To Become a Travel Nurse in New Jersey With Trusted Nurse Staffing in 3 Simple Steps

Check out the Pronto job search to see listings for travel nurse jobs in New Jersey. You can set filters to search by salary, location, specialty, and more.

Not finding jobs that pique your interest? Pronto will send you notifications as new positions that meet your requirements become available.

When you’ve found a New Jersey travel nurse job that fits the bill, it’s time to sign up and apply. Pronto makes it easy to do everything in one place, from filling out an application to uploading credentials and more.

Sign your contract and prepare for your move. If you end up wanting to extend your contract in New Jersey, our team at Trusted Nurse Staffing can assist you in the process. If you’re ready to hit the road once you’ve reached the end of your assignment, we will help you transition to the next step of your journey, whether that’s to extend your stay or seek a new adventure in another state .

For those who like a quiet escape, New Jersey has many oceanfront towns each with its own distinct character. 

1. Port Republic is a small town on the coast with picture-perfect scenery.  2. Strathmere has one of New Jersey’s five free beaches and is a quiet alternative to some of the more attraction-filled beaches in New Jersey.  3. Barnegat Light is another small oceanfront town that’s home to the Barnegat Lighthouse, also known as Old Barney. Here you can also find Viking Village, one of New Jersey’s state commercial fishing ports. 4. Brigantine is a happy place for owners of four-wheel drives. As long as you have a permit you can go four-wheeling along this stretch of beach, making tailgate sunsets a reality.  5. Ocean Grove is also known as the jewel of the Jersey Shore. Here you’ll find quaint shops, a charming Main Street, and the Great Auditorium. This theater, completed in 1894, has spectacular acoustics and seats just over 6,000 people. The Great Auditorium also has one of the largest pipe organs in the world.

This non-exhaustive list is a few of many more oceanfront towns worth a visit. Rural inland New Jersey is also a beautiful place to explore.

If you crave a more fast-paced scene, Jersey City is the second-largest city in the state. Some highlights of Jersey City are quick access to the Statue of Liberty, the Liberty Science Center, and the 9/11 Memorial at Liberty State Park.

If you fancy some brownstone buildings and a great view of the Manhattan skyline, Hoboken is the place to go. In Hoboken, you can find a diverse range of ethnic foods from Italian to Indian to Mexican and more. 

Further inland, Jackson Township is home to Six Flags Great Adventure. The Ferris wheel reaches 150 ft into the air and the Safari Off-Road Adventure has about 1,200 animals in their park. To see a bird’s eye view of the park, a cable car can take you from one end to another. Wildwood, located in Cape May County, is another holiday destination — especially in the summer. Wildwood boasts beaches and boardwalks, amusement parks, and a lively nightlife scene.

Atlantic City is one of the most popular places to visit in New Jersey. It’s known for:

• The Miss America pageant  
• Atlantic City Beach 
• Atlantic City Boardwalk
• Shopping with your casino winnings at Tanger Outlets
• Steel Pier amusement park

Emergency Room (ER)

Medical/surgical, intensive care unit (icu), critical care, operating room (or), post-anesthesia care unit (pacu), what are your active travel nursing jobs in atlantic city.

Interested in travel nursing jobs in one of the most popular cities in New Jersey? Go to Pronto and search for active job listings in Atlantic City. Not seeing a job you are interested in? Pronto will notify you as new positions become available.

What Are Your Active Travel Nursing Jobs in North Arlington?

Check out Pronto to search for job listings in North Arlington. If you don’t see positions that pique your interest, Pronto will send you notifications as new travel nursing job listings become available.

What Are Your Active Travel Nursing Jobs in Princeton?

Interested in travel nursing jobs in the college town of Princeton? Pronto allows you to easily search for travel nursing positions in Princeton and will even send you a notification as new jobs are posted in the area.

Which New Jersey Travel Nurse Assignments Have The Lowest Cost of Living?

Today’s higher cost of living probably has you looking for locations that will be easier on your wallet. Here are a few suburbs with a lower cost of living compared to the rest of the state:

• Gloucester City
• Phillipsburg

These cities are often smaller areas that give you access to more populated cities. If you favor a smaller and more quiet environment, these smaller towns may be for you.

Housing For Travel Nurses in New Jersey: How Do I Go About Finding Housing?

“ Choosing to accept a stipend doesn’t mean that your recruiter at Trusted Nurse Staffing won’t be there to help you along the way. Connect with us, and we can give you insights into the various areas and even connect you with rental properties used by travel nurses in the past.”  

How Do I Find The Best Travel Nurse Agencies in New Jersey?

Finding the right agency for travel nursing jobs in New Jersey may seem like a tedious process with so many choices, but there are some things you can do to narrow your search:

• Check out online reviews of nurses who have already taken on travel assignments in New Jersey. 
• Speak to recruiters from various agencies to get a feel for the culture of the agency and how supported you will be before, during, and after your assignment.
• Ask what benefits are offered upfront. You may receive higher pay, but fewer benefits, and vice versa.

The team at Trusted Nurse Staffing is confident that our pay, benefits packages, and 24/7 support are above and beyond the industry standard, and we’d like to prove it to you.

Where Are The Best Places To Travel Nurse In New Jersey?

This depends on the kind of lifestyle you prefer. If you like a more fast-paced environment, consider the larger coastal towns such as Atlantic City or Hoboken. Hoboken is right across the water from Manhattan, giving you quick access to the city.

If you prefer a quieter life, one of the suburbs both on the coast or inland may be more to your liking. In New Jersey, travel nurse jobs are diverse. There is a wide range of hospitals and facilities looking for travel nurses that could benefit your career.

What Are The Best Things To Do in New Jersey For Travel Nurses?

In addition to its own attractions, New Jersey is near many sites in the surrounding states. New Jersey sits right next to both New York and Philadelphia, making day trips or weekend getaways easier. 

Interested in Other States? Find Comprehensive Travel Nursing Information for Other States Using The Interactive Map Below

How Much Do Travel Nurses Make?

Average Pay for Travel Nurses

Travel nursing pay explained, highest and lowest paying states for travel nurses.

• Highest Paying Travel Nurse Specialties
• Ways to Increase Pay

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.

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

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.

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

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Travel Nurse Salary: How Much Do Travel Nurses Make?

• Travel Nurse Salary
• Salary Factors
• Salary by Specialty
• Highest Paying States
• Highest Paying Cities
• Top Paying Agencies
• How to Make More
• Related Careers
• Final Thoughts & Next Steps

How Much Do Travel Nurses Make?

The average annual travel nurse salary in the US is  $105,021 or $50/hr, according to  ZipRecruiter  as of May 2023. This is significantly higher than the average salary for registered nurses overall, which is $81,220 per year or $39.05 per hour per the BLS . 

>> Click here to see available high-paying travel nurse opportunities!

Travel nurse salaries range widely across the country, with the lowest earners making $40,000 and the highest earners making $155,500 annually!

If you are a Registered Nurse (RN) who has ever considered traveling the country and wants to know how much travel nurses earn, you’ve come to the right place! This travel nurse salary guide will explain everything you need to know about how much travel nurses can make. Including:

• Types of travel nurses who make the most money
• Travel nurse salaries by city and state incomes
• Top-paying travel nurse agencies
• How to increase your salary as a travel nurse

Factors That Impact Travel Nurse Salaries

It is important to remember that travel nursing salary is dependent on several factors, including:

• Nursing specialty
• Full-time or part-time employment
• The shifts you work: day shift, night shift, mid-shifts, or weekends
• Bonus income

Also, travel nurses who work holidays often receive time-and-a-half or double-time pay, and in some cases, even more!

In addition, depending on the circumstances, travel nurses may also receive “crisis” pay due to needing to fill staffing urgently. If you have the desire and flexibility to move to another city or state quickly, a “crisis” assignment might be a great option for you.

Travel Nurse Salary by Specialty

What do travel nurses do that warrants their higher salaries? While flexibility is a significant factor, your travel nurse salary will also change depending on your nursing specialty.

Travel CRNA

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are the top-paid nursing specialty. The same holds true for CRNAs who take travel assignments as well. According to ZipRecruiter , CRNA travelers earn an average annual income of $194,352 or $93/hr. The highest earners make as much as $311,500!

Operating Room Travel Nurse

Operating Room (OR) travel nurses are in high demand at various locations around the country. ZipRecruiter found that operating room travel nurses earn an average annual income of $181,460 annually or $87/hr. The highest earners make as much as $286,000.

Emergency Room Travel Nurse

ZipRecruiter reports that ER travel nurses earn an average annual income of $83,503 annually or $40/hr. However, they add that the highest earners make as much as $171,500.

Intensive Care (ICU) Travel Nurse

According to ZipRecruiter , the average annual salary for ICU travel nurses is $143,416 annually or $69/hr. However, the highest earners make as much as $263,500.

Travel Nurse Practitioner

The average travel nurse practitioner salary is $140,086 annually or $67/hr, according to ZipRecruiter .  However, salary is often dependent on location and specialty. The highest-earning travel nurse practitioners make as much as $243,500.

Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Travel Nurse

NICU travel nurses earn an average income of approximately $173,017 annually or $83/hr, according to ZipRecruiter . However, incomes across the country can range widely, with bottom earners making $56,000 and top earners bringing in $281,500.

Med-Surg Travel Nurse

ZipRecruiter reports that med-surg travel nurses in the US earn an average annual income of $118,997 or $57.21/hr. However, per-hour incomes can reach as high as $134.38, depending on your location and facility.

Telemetry Travel Nurse

ZipRecruiter states that telemetry Travel nurses earn an average annual income of $124,122 annually or $60/hr. However, top earners bring in as much as $174,500.

Top Paying States for Travel Nurses

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
• Hawaii: $109,653 annually or $52.72/hr
• Tennessee: $107,708 annually or $51.78/hr
• Massachusetts: $107,000 annually or $51.44/hr
• New Jersey: $106,901 annually or $51.40/hr
• Washington: $106,086 annually or $51.00/hr
• West Virginia: $106,044 annually or $50.98/hr
• New Hampshire: $105,438 annually or $50.69/hr

Top Paying Cities for Travel Nurses

ZipRecruiter reports that the cities that offer the highest pay for travel nurses include:

• Barrow, AK: $137,200 annually or $65.96/hr
• San Jose, CA: $133,873 annually or $64.36/hr
• Oakland, CA: $132,042 annually or $63.48/hr
• Antioch, CA: $129,387 annually or $62.21/hr
• San Francisco Bay Area, CA: $128,781 annually or $61.91/hr
• Lebanon, NH: $128,674 annually or $61.86/hr
• New York, NY: $128,277 annually or $61.67/hr
• Hayward, CA: $127,865 annually or $61.47/hr
• Vallejo, CA: $127,791 annually or $61.44/hr 
• Seattle, WA: $127,691 annually or $61.39/hr

Top Paying Agencies for Travel Nurses

There are multiple top-paying travel nurse agencies across the US. It is important to remember that your pay package depends on several factors, and income may vary widely depending on location and the needs of the facility. When a healthcare facility has more urgent needs for travel nurses, the pay ranges typically increase.

>> Related: Travel Nurse Requirements

Aya Healthcare

Aya Healthcare is one of the largest travel nurse agencies in the country, and they offer a wide range of travel nurse opportunities for various nursing specialties and allied healthcare positions. 

Fusion Medical Staffing

Fusion is another large nurse travel agency with many opportunities for nurses to choose their top travel destinations. Their website reports that one of the biggest perks of working with them is that they offer dedicated contacts available every day and night, 24/7.

Axis Medical Staffing

Axis Medical Staffing has won awards for “Best Customer Service” by Verywell Health and “Top Travel Nursing Company 2022” by Travel Nursing Central. 

Travel Nurse Across America

The TNAA website boasts highly skilled recruiters, housing experts, and clinical and quality insurance that prepares their travel nurses for success. 

Gifted Healthcare

Gifted Healthcare is another large travel nursing agency that reports that they aim to open the door to the right opportunities for their clinicians. In fact, their website reports that 90% of travel nurses report that their assignments aligned perfectly with their skills and expectations. 

TotalMed Staffing

Headquartered in Appleton, WI, TotalMed Staffing has several other locations across the country, such as California, Illinois, Tennessee, and North Carolina. They serve various types of healthcare facilities across the country.

Ventura Medstaff

Ventura Medstaff prides itself on integrity. Their website makes it easy to find a match for various types of healthcare specialties in the right location and facility across the country.

Tailored Healthcare

The Tailored Healthcare website reports that travel nurses are rewarded professionally with high-paying travel assignments, Platinum Shield Benefits, and everything paid for upfront. In addition, the company celebrates its nurses year-round with praise, gifts, and best-in-class bonuses.

Titan Medical 

Titan Medical Group states that they help their clients “find your place.” They feature various jobs on their website daily and make it easier for clients to find their next travel assignment.  

MedPro Healthcare

Medpro Healthcare offers incredible benefits, including competitive compensation, travel reimbursement, health insurance, short and long-term disability, 401K, Continuing education, and even referral bonuses.

How to Increase Your Salary as a Travel Nurse

No matter where you live and work as a travel nurse, there are often opportunities to increase your salary.

Be Flexible With Your City and State

When you live and work in a city with a higher cost of living, you will also be compensated at a higher rate. For example, travel nurses who work in areas such as New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Seattle will earn significantly more income than travel nurses who choose to work in lower-cost-of-living areas. 

Consider Your Specialty(s)

If you have been cross-trained in more than one nursing specialty, you may want to see which specialties pay the most through your travel agency. For example, if you usually work as an ICU nurse, but a facility has crisis needs for telemetry nurses and will pay top dollar for that specialty, then you may want to consider accepting that travel assignment. After all, these are temporary assignments, and if you decide you don’t like them, you won’t have to stay for long.

Ask About Per Diem Daily Pay

Many nurses qualify for additional per diem pay for travel nurse housing , incidentals, and meals during their travel assignments. Talk to your travel agent to see if this applies to you.

Choose Shifts Wisely

Career and travel nurses are typically paid a few dollars more per hour for working less desirable shifts such as night shifts, mid shifts, and weekends.

In addition, travel nurses who work holidays often receive time and a half or double time pay!

Talk About Bonuses

Your travel agency will need to explain your bonus structure, as they can differ from agency to agency. However, here are a few of the different types of bonuses you may be eligible for as a travel RN:

• Agency bonus: Added pay from your travel agency
• Retention bonus: Your agency will often pay you a fee for referring your nurse and allied healthcare professional friends to their agency.
• Retention bonus: Agency-paid bonuses for nurses who continue to accept travel bonuses from the same agency.

Find Crisis or Strike Pay

Healthcare facilities in dire need of nursing staff during a public healthcare crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic or during a nursing strike, often will pay travel nurses significantly higher wages than during non-dire times. Talk to your travel agency to find out where the most significant staffing needs are. 

Consider Looking at Different Agencies

If you are ever disappointed with your travel pay or hear through the grapevine that other agencies pay significantly more, consider looking at different agencies. It is also wise to build relationships with other travel nurses so you can talk freely about what to expect at different agencies.

Consider Finding Your Own Housing

Many agencies offer a housing stipend and then secure your housing for you. However, if you find your own housing, you may be able to find something less expensive and pocket the rest of the money.

>> See more travel nurse salary tips in How to Make the Most Money as a Travel Nurse

Salaries of Related Nursing Careers vs. Travel Nursing

The following are salaries of non-traveling nursing specialties, according to ZipRecruiter:

• NICU Nurse : $136,592 annually or $66/hr
• Surgical Nurse: $120,699 annually, or $58/hr
• Postpartum Nurse: $108,952 annually or $52/hr
• Telemetry Nurse: $95,179 annually, or $46/hr
• ICU Nurse : $92,568 annually or $45/hr
• Emergency Room Nurse : $83,503 annually or $40/hr

Travel Nurse Salary: Final Thoughts & Next Steps

The high salaries alone are enough to make dozens of nurses excited to enter travel nursing. But the perks don't stop at pay - travel nurses get to see the world, interact with patients across cultures, and enjoy non-taxed travel stipends. If all that sounds enticing to you, check out our guide on how to become a travel nurse to start your dream career today!

Travel Nurse Salary FAQs

Do travel nurses get paid well.

• ZipRecruiter reports that as of May 2023, travel nurses in the US earned an average annual income of $105,021 or $50/hr. They also add that salaries range widely across the country, with the lowest earners making $40,000 and the highest earners making $155,500 annually! 

What is the highest travel nurse salary?

• CRNAs travelers are the top-paid travel registered nurse specialty.  According to ZipRecruiter, CRNA travelers earn an average annual income of $194,352 or $93/hr. The highest earners make as much as $311,500! 

Why are travel nurses paid so much?

• Travel nurses help to fill staffing gaps and often accept assignments in areas with severe or “crisis’” nursing shortages. For their travel flexibility and ability to work in sometimes hard-to-fill areas, they are typically paid a higher compensation.

Sarah Jividen , RN, BSN, is a trained neuro/trauma and emergency room nurse turned freelance healthcare writer/editor. As a journalism major, she combined her love for writing with her passion for high-level patient care. Sarah is the creator of Health Writing Solutions , LLC, specializing in writing about healthcare topics, including health journalism, education, and evidence-based health and wellness trends. She lives in Northern California with her husband and two children. 

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