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Welcome to MSSI, an award-winning healthcare staffing agency specializing in nationwide placements. As a member of our travel team, you’ll enjoy top-paying travel nursing jobs, flexibility, and extensive benefits. Since 2014, we’ve been ranked as a top travel nurse company by BluePipes and Travel Nursing Central. Our dedicated recruiters are here to support you every step of the way. Join MSSI for a rewarding career in healthcare staffing.

An Award-Winning Travel Nurse Agency

Welcome to MSSI, an award-winning healthcare staffing agency specializing in placing healthcare professionals nationwide. As a member of our travel team, you’ll gain access to some of the highest paying travel nursing jobs in the industry, along with the flexibility and benefits that come with this career path. Our premium salary packages and comprehensive benefits reflect our commitment to providing exceptional compensation. Since 2014, we have consistently ranked as a top travel nurse company by BluePipes and Travel Nursing Central .

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HIGHEST PAY IN THE INDUSTRY. We offer you the highest paying healthcare pay packages up front, so there’s no need to negotiate for the pay you deserve – we give it to you right off the bat.

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Highest Paying Travel Nurse Specialties

The highest paying nursing jobs in 2023 include nurse anesthetist, nurse practitioner, icu nurse, and more. Read on for average salaries!

Are you ready to find out which nursing jobs are bringing in the big bucks in 2023? Let's face it, as a nurse, you deserve to be rewarded for your hard work, compassion, and dedication to your patients. And what better way to reward yourself than by pursuing one of the top 10 highest paying nursing jobs out there? In this blog post, we're going to take a closer look at the most lucrative nursing jobs of 2023!

Interested in exploring nursing salaries by state? Be sure to check our Nurse Salary Explorer for location-based insights!

Salary information gathered from https://nurse.org .

Nursing Jobs with the Highest Pay

• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist | $195,610 
• General Nurse Practitioner | $120,680
• ICU Nurse | $120,243
• Neonatal ICU Nurse | $118,586
• Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner | $113,114
• Certified Nurse Midwife | $112,830
• Clinical Nurse Specialist | $112,267
• Pain Management Nurse |  $110,420
• Registered Nurse First Assist | $101,890
• Nursing Administrator | $101,340

If you're interested in pursuing a career in nursing, or if you’re a nurse wondering where you take your career next, start by exploring these high-paying specialties and see which one is the right fit for you! Be sure to also check out our travel nurse jobs to find your next opportunity! 

1. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists , or CRNAs , are highly skilled advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who work in collaboration with anesthesiologists, physicians, and surgeons to administer anesthesia and provide pain management services.  They typically work in hospitals, clinics, and outpatient surgical centers.  

Becoming a CRNA requires a master's or doctoral degree and successful completion of a National Certification Examination.  RN work experience in an ICU is required for admission to these programs and applicants can set themselves up for success by achieving additional certifications, such as Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN). 

This is a high-pressure job that requires extensive knowledge of anesthesia and an ability to work well under pressure. But the perks are significant: CRNAs enjoy a high degree of autonomy, excellent job security, and an average salary of $195,610.

2. General Nurse Practitioner

General Nurse Practitioners, also known as NPs , provide primary and specialty healthcare services to patients of all ages. They are responsible for diagnosing and treating illnesses, prescribing medications, and educating patients about their health.  NPs can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. To become a General Nurse Practitioner, you will need to complete a master's or doctoral degree in nursing and pass a certification exam. One of the biggest perks of this job is the ability to work independently, which allows for more flexibility and autonomy. With an average salary of $120,680, General Nurse Practitioners are well-compensated for their skills and expertise.‍

3. ICU Nurse

Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Nurses, or Critical Care Nurses , work in critical care settings and are responsible for monitoring and caring for patients who are seriously ill or injured. They work closely with an interdisciplinary team of physicians and other healthcare professionals to provide specialized care to high acuity, often unstable patients.

ICU Nurses need to have excellent critical thinking and decision-making skills, as well as the ability to work under pressure. The job can be demanding, both physically and emotionally, but it is also incredibly rewarding. The average annual salary for ICU Nurses is $120,243. You can find critical care jobs with Trusted by clicking here!

4. Neonatal ICU Nurse

Neonatal Intensive Care Nurses , or NICU Nurses , work in neonatal intensive care units, generally in the inpatient setting, and care for fragile newborns who require intensive medical attention. This includes premature infants, infants with birth defects, low birthweight infants who require surgery, and those who suffer from severe illness.

‍ NICU nurses often receive advanced training to improve their skills in neonatal care.  With an average annual salary of $118,586, Neonatal Intensive Care Nurses are well-compensated for their expertise and commitment to newborns.

5. Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners , also called psychiatric mental-health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), are advanced practice registered nurses who provide a range of holistic treatments to those with mental, emotional, and behavioral medical problems. This includes diagnosing and treating mental illnesses, prescribing medications, and providing psychotherapy to patients. Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, mental health clinics, and private practices. While some PMHNPs work together with psychiatrists, others can work independently, depending on their location in the country. This is a challenging but rewarding area of nursing that requires extensive knowledge of mental health issues and prior experience working in mental health . On average, Psychiatric NP’s receive a salary of $113,114.

6. Certified Nurse Midwife

Certified Nurse Midwives , or CNMs, are trained to provide care and support for women during family planning, pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. In addition to general gynecological services, they provide prenatal care, assist with labor and delivery, and provide care to newborns.

This role is attractive to those interested in offering care to women with a holistic approach. Essential traits and skills for those in this position are compassion, a desire for education, and critical thinking. To become a CNM, you will need to complete a master's or doctoral degree in nursing and pass a certification exam and generally need previous experience working in Obstetrics or Labor and Delivery .

The average annual salary for CNM’s is $112,267.‍

7. Clinical Nurse Specialist

Clinical Nurse Specialists, or CNSs, are registered nurses who have received specialized education and training in a particular area of healthcare, such as pediatrics, critical care, oncology, etc. They provide direct patient care, mentor and educate other nurses, and participate in the development of policies and procedures to improve patient outcomes. 

Most nurses in this role are master’s prepared and have completed a certification exam through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the American Association of Critical Care Nurses Certification Corporation (AACN). 

This role is very satisfying for those trying to work within their niche, as the specialization of CNS nurses can be a population, setting, disease, type of care, or problem. Essential traits or skills for CNS nurses are effective communication, passion for education, and a love of research to keep in touch with the current evidence-based trends. The average salary for a CNS is $112,267

8. Pain Management Nurse 

A Pain Management Nurse provides specialized care to patients who suffer from chronic pain due to injury, illness, or surgery. They work closely with physicians in hospitals, clinics, or pain management centers to develop pain management plans that may include medication, physical therapy, and/or other therapies. This type of nursing requires specialized knowledge of pain management and an ability to provide compassionate care to patients. The average salary for a pain management nurse is 110,420.

9. Registered Nurse First Assist

A Registered Nurse First Assist (RNFA) is an advanced practice registered nurse who works closely with surgeons in the operating room and actively participates in the procedure at hand. RNFA's assist with surgical procedures, including preoperative assessments, intraoperative care, and postoperative follow-up. They work closely with the surgical team to ensure that patients receive the best possible care and generally work in hospitals, surgical centers, or private practices. RNFAs receive an average salary of $101,890.

10. Nursing Administrator

Nursing Administrators wrap up our top ten highest paying nursing jobs! Nurse Administrators  are nurse leaders at the forefront of developing strategies to meet the healthcare needs of today’s patient populations. They use their knowledge and experience to improve healthcare.  These are registered nurses who hold leadership roles within a healthcare system- from unit manager to chief nursing officer. While it is not required, nurse administrators often have a master's degree in Clinical Nurse Leadership (CNL) and pass either the Nurse Executive Board Certification Examination presented by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) or the Certified Nurse Manager and Leadership offered by the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL). 

Those who are in this role have the opportunity to create direct change by developing policies, hiring, and mentoring others. The traits or skills desired for those in this position are flexibility, effective communication, and comprehensive organization skills.

The average salary for a nurse administrator is $101,340. 

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Looking for ways to revitalize your nursing career while you still have some energy left at the bedside?

Turns out, it really is better to be a travel nurse than a permanent staff nurse. A sweeping study analyzing feedback from our fellow registered nurses confirms travel nurses are more satisfied in their jobs.

Nurses working in travel nurse jobs report making better pay, having less work-related stress, feeling safer on the job and getting more support from their employers (travel nurse agencies).

If you're ready to leverage your nursing specialty experience into higher pay and more career satisfaction, jumping into a travel nurse job could make you a happier nurse.

Read on to learn how StellarNurse gives you the confidence and control to make informed career decisions in your travel nursing job search.

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18 Highest-Paying Travel Nursing Jobs

As the US nursing shortage grows, more hospitals are relying on travel nurses. Learn more about what they do and discover the highest-paying travel nursing jobs.

As workforce demand for nurses continues to rise, travel nurses are playing a more important role than ever in the delivery of health care. Learn more about being a travel nurse in the US, and explore the highest-paying travel nursing jobs.

What is a travel nurse?

Travel nurses often fill short-term job vacancies. Nurse-to-patient ratios have a direct impact on patient safety, and health care companies typically use staffing agencies such as Axis Medical Staffing, Aya, and Triage to temporarily fill jobs at understaffed locations. The length of a travel nurse’s stay varies, but, according to St. Catherine University, most stints are between eight and 26 weeks [ 1 ].

Travel nurses are registered nurses who have earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing or an Associate of Science in Nursing degree and have passed the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). They’ve also gained experience in the field, focusing on the specialties they’re most interested in.

To take their services on the road, they need to ensure they’re licensed in the states in which they’ll be working. Many states participate in the Nursing Licensure Compact (NLC), which allows nurses to practice in several states with a single license. Once all of these requirements are met, a registered nurse can sign with a staffing agency, which will match them with available jobs at hospitals, clinics, and health systems in need.

Highest-paying travel nursing jobs

How much you can expect to earn as a travel nurse depends on your specialty. Below are some of the highest-paying travel nursing jobs.

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*All annual base salary data is sourced from Glassdoor as of September 2023 and excludes any additional pay, unless stated otherwise.

1. Intensive care unit travel nurse

Average annual US salary: $101,574

Requirements: Active RN license, CMC certification (preferred)

ICU travel nurses work in the intensive care units of hospitals, treating patients in need of round-the-clock monitoring due to life-threatening conditions. Since their patients are unstable, ICU nurses frequently respond to emergency situations. ICU travel nurses played an important role in the delivery of health care in the early days of the pandemic, often working in COVID units at hospitals in places experiencing a surge in COVID cases.

2. Emergency room travel nurse

Average annual US salary: $97,482

Requirements: Active RN license, certifications such as CEN, BLS, ACLS, PALS, ENPC, and NIHSS (preferred)

ER travel nurses work in a hospital’s emergency room, evaluating and stabilizing patients who have urgent medical conditions. They chart vitals and develop a care plan based on their assessment of a patient’s condition.

3. Labor and delivery travel nurse

Average annual US salary: $96,109

Requirements: Active RN license, two years of experience in labor and delivery, experience in neonatal intensive or critical care (preferred) 

L&D travel nurses care for patients in labor by monitoring vital signs, measuring contractions, and administering medications prescribed for pain management. They also assist with delivery and care for newborns after birth.

4. Telemetry travel nurse

Average annual US salary: $98,958

Requirements: Active RN license, telemetry nurse certification (preferred) 

Telemetry travel nurses monitor the vital signs of patients who are experiencing or are at risk of experiencing cardiovascular emergencies, like heart attacks and strokes, or respiratory or renal issues. They are trained to recognize dangerous heart rhythms using the latest electrocardiogram and telemedicine technologies.

5. Neonatal intensive care travel nurse

Average annual US salary: $94,629

Requirements: Active RN license, one to two years experience working in neonatal ICU, CCRN-Neonatal certification (preferred)

NICU travel nurses care for and monitor the development of infants who are at-risk due to severe illness, premature birth, or birth defects. Beyond attending to newborns’ basic needs, these nurses also perform tests and administer medications.

6. Postpartum/Mother-baby travel nurse

Average annual US salary (ZipRecruiter): $115,966 [ 2 ]

Requirements: Active RN license, two years of maternity/newborn specialty experience, RNC-MNN certification

Postpartum travel nurses care for newborns and mothers who have just given birth. They administer any medications that have been prescribed and educate new parents about proper childcare.

7. Medical-surgical travel nurse 

Average annual US salary: $87,034

Requirements: Active RN license, certifications such as BLS, ACLS, and Pals, Medical-Surgical Nursing certification (preferred)

A med-surg travel nurse treats patients who are either preparing for or recovering from surgery. They may also tend to patients experiencing a variety of acute illnesses or injuries. These nurses often work in ​​hospitals, outpatient clinics, surgery centers, and long-term care facilities.

8. Post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) travel nurse

Average annual US salary: $112,117

Requirements: Active RN license, two years of experience in post-anesthesia care unit

PACU travel nurses work in recovery rooms, providing postoperative care to patients as their sedation wears. They monitor levels of consciousness and treat side effects such as nausea and pain. They also educate patients about the care they will need after being discharged.

9. Pediatric intensive care travel nurse

Average annual US salary (ZipRecruiter): $105,021 [ 3 ] 

Requirements: Active RN license, one year of experience in pediatric critical care, CCRN-Pediatric certification (preferred)

PICU travel nurses care for children and adolescents in the pediatric intensive care unit. Their patients are typically unstable and require constant monitoring due to severe illness or injury. These nurses also provide emotional support to families and keep them informed of their child’s condition.

10. Operating room travel nurse

Average annual US salary: $103,526

Requirements: Active RN license, two years of clinical experience, one year of experience in operating room, certifications such as CNOR, CNS-CP, and CFPN (preferred)

OR travel nurses care for patients before, during, and after surgeries and other procedures. They also assist surgeons, see to the sterilization of operating rooms and equipment, and provide patients with postoperative instructions.

11. Cardiovascular operating room travel nurse

Average annual US salary (ZipRecruiter): $99,061 [ 4 ]

Requirements: Active RN license, certifications such as CNOR, ACLS, and PALS (preferred)

CVOR travel nurses assist with open-heart surgeries. They aid in patient sedation, monitor vitals, apply dressings, and administer medications.

12. Geriatric travel nurse

Average annual US salary (Talent): $73,775 [ 5 ]

Requirements: Active RN license, Gero-BC certification (preferred)

Typically working in nursing homes, long-term care facilities, and assisted living facilities, geriatric travel nurses specialize in elder care. They often treat conditions common in senior populations, such as arthritis, dementia, Alzheimer’s, and cardiac disease. Geriatric travel nurses also monitor for signs of elder abuse and help caregivers understand best practices for managing their symptoms.

13. Registered nurse first assistant travel nurse

Average annual US salary (ZipRecruiter): $117,238 [ 6 ]

Requirements: Active RN or APRN license, RNFA program completion

Registered nurse first assistant travel nurse (RNFA) travel nurses work as surgical first assistants and are typically Advanced Practice Registered Nurses or perioperative RNs. They are responsible for evaluating patients before and after surgery and assisting surgeons during operations.

14. Vaccine travel nurse

Average annual US salary: $96,359

Requirements: Active RN license, three years of experience (preferred), certifications such as BLS and CIC (preferred)

Vaccine travel nurses administer vaccinations. While they’re often assigned to work in hospitals, they might also work in a private practice or clinic. They’re responsible for educating patients about vaccines and their importance, as well as any side effects they might experience.

15. Correctional travel nurse

Average annual US salary (ZipRecruiter):  $105,021 [ 7 ]

Requirements: Active RN license, two years of experience in emergency and med-surg nursing, CCHP certification (preferred)

Correctional travel nurses care for incarcerated or detained persons, attending to both their mental and physical health. They are assigned to work in the prison wards of hospitals, local jails and prisons, federal prisons, and detention centers.

16. Wound care travel nurse

Average annual US salary (ZipRecruiter):   $108,078 [ 8 ]

Requirements: Active RN license, experience in acute or wound care setting

Wound care travel nurses monitor and treat wounds, burns, diabetes-related foot conditions, and pressure sores. They also educate patients about at-home wound care.

17. Endoscopy travel nurse

Average annual US salary (ZipRecruiter):   $82,909 [ 9 ]

Requirements: Active RN license, BLS and ACLS certification

Endoscopy travel nurses assist with endoscopic procedures, which diagnose gastroenterological and respiratory disorders. They are responsible for caring for patients before, during, and after procedures, making sure the room and equipment are sterilized, and aiding doctors during procedures. They often work in hospitals but are sometimes assigned to clinics, outpatient facilities, and private practices.

18. Cardiac ICU travel nurse

Average annual US salary: $126,991

Cardiac ICU travel nurses work in the ICU, caring for patients experiencing critical cardiac, thoracic, and vascular conditions. They monitor patients, administer medications, and provide emergency care when necessary. 

Growing demand for nurses 

A survey conducted by the American College of Healthcare Executives found staffing shortages were the top concern of health care CEOs in 2021, surpassing financial challenges for the first time since 2004 [ 10 ]. The American Hospital Association (AHA) expects a shortage of 3.2 million health care workers by 2026 [ 11 ].

High turnover rates and increased instances of burnout are contributing to the problem. To make matters worse, the population of registered nurses is aging. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, one million nurses are expected to retire by 2030 [ 12 ].

Many health care organizations have turned to travel nurses to meet the growing demand for nursing care.

Benefits of becoming a travel nurse

Nurses often experience burnout and emotional hardship. According to a survey by the American Nurses Foundation, 34 percent are not emotionally healthy, and 42 percent experienced trauma during the pandemic [ 13 ]. The opportunity to travel to different locations, meet new people, and learn in different environments may help alleviate the stress inherent in the nursing profession.

Travel nurses also enjoy job security due to the nursing shortage. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates an additional 177,400 nurses will be needed in the workforce each year between now and 2032 [ 14 ]. Health care leaders will likely have to continue to think creatively about how to fill their nursing vacancies.

Additionally, working as a travel nurse is often more lucrative than working as a health care organization employee. A travel nurse can earn anywhere between $3,000 and $5,000 a week, according to the Associated Press [ 15 ], and staffing agencies frequently provide benefits such as paid sick leave, travel reimbursement, licensing assistance, and continuing education opportunities.

Compensation and benefits are becoming increasingly important as health care organizations struggle to retain their nursing staff. A Nurse.com survey found higher pay led a wave of nurses to become travel nurses during the height of the pandemic [ 16 ]. Of the 4 percent of respondents who work as travel nurses, 62 percent made the switch in 2020 or 2021.

Get started with Coursera

If you want to hone your nursing skills in preparation for becoming a travel nurse, consider taking an online course on Coursera. You could start with the University of Pennsylvania’s Vital Signs: Understanding What the Body is Telling Us , or the University of Minnesota’s Integrative Nursing Specialization .

Article sources

St. Catherine University. “ What Is A Travel Nurse? Job Description and Salary , https://www.stkate.edu/academics/women-in-leadership-degrees/what-is-a-travel-nurse.” Accessed September 29, 2023.

ZipRecruiter. “ How Much Do Postpartum Nurse Jobs Pay per Month in 2023? , https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Postpartum-Nurse-Salary-per-Month#Yearly.” Accessed September 29, 2023.

ZipRecruiter. “ Picu Travel Nurse Salary: Hourly Rate September 2023 USA , https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/PICU-Travel-Nurse-Salary.” Accessed September 29, 2023.

ZipRecruiter. “ Operating Room Travel Nurse Salary: Hourly Rate (USA) , https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Operating-Room-Travel-Nurse-Salary#Yearly.” Accessed September 29, 2023.

Talent. “ Geriatric Travel Nurse average salary in the USA, 2023 , https://www.talent.com/salary?job=geriatric+travel+nurse&location=.” Accessed September 29, 2023.

ZipRecruiter. “ Travel Rnfa Salary , https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/travel-rnfa-Salary-in-Baltimore,MD#intsrc=fe.candidate_header_desktop_logged_out.” Accessed September 29, 2023.

ZipRecruiter. “ Correctional Travel Nurse Salary: Hourly Rate September 2023 , https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Correctional-Travel-Nurse-Salary#Yearly.” Accessed September 29, 2023.

ZipRecruiter. “ Wound Care Travel Nurse Salary , https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Wound-care-travel-nurse-Salary#intsrc=fe.candidate_header_desktop_logged_out.” Accessed September 29, 2023.

ZipRecruiter. “ Endoscopy Travel Nurse Salary: Hourly Rate September 2023 , https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Endoscopy-travel-nurse-Salary#Yearly.” Accessed September 29, 2023.

American College of Healthcare Executives. “ Top Issues Confronting Hospitals , https://www.ache.org/learning-center/research/about-the-field/top-issues-confronting-hospitals.” Accessed September 29, 2023.

AHA. “ Fact Sheet: Strengthening the Health Care Workforce , https://www.aha.org/fact-sheets/2021-05-26-fact-sheet-strengthening-health-care-workforce.” Accessed September 29, 2023.

American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN). “ Nurse Shortage Fact Sheet , https://www.aacnnursing.org/Portals/42/News/Factsheets/Nursing-Shortage-Factsheet.pdf.” Accessed September 29, 2023.

Nursing World. “ Pulse of the Nation's Nurses Survey Series: Mental Health and Wellness - Taking the Pulse on Emotional Health, Post-Traumatic Stress, Resiliency, and Activities for Strengthening Wellbeing , https://www.nursingworld.org/~4aa484/globalassets/docs/ancc/magnet/mh3-written-report-final.pdf.” Accessed September 29, 2023.

BLS. “ Registered Nurses : Occupational Outlook Handbook , https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/registered-nurses.htm.” Accessed September 29, 2023.

AP News. “ US hospitals hit with nurse staffing crisis amid COVID , https://apnews.com/article/business-health-coronavirus-pandemic-b6d58e41b209dd67ed0954f28b542baf.” Accessed September 29, 2023.

Nurse. “ Stay Informed With Career Insights From the 2022 Nurse Salary Report , https://www.nurse.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/2022-Nurse-Salary-Research-Report-from-Nurse.com_.pdf”. Accessed September 29, 2023.

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Support is a certainty. You feel it in our first meeting, and every step thereafter. From job search and credentialing to your assignment and return flight, we’re here for you. 

The best experience is easier than you think.

You work hard, so let’s talk about the simple things. There’s so much that makes travel nursing fun and rewarding. Here are three ways RNnetwork makes it even better — and easier.

We offer 401(k), travel reimbursement, and multiple ways to earn bonuses. We help you find tax advantages, too.

Day-one benefits

Enjoy industry-leading benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance and more. Keep your free spirit. Add corporate coverage.

Home sweet home

Housing can make or break travel. Gather your things, pets, and people. Our experts find the perfect area and amenities for a great home.

How do travel nurses feel about their work?

“I was able to spend a few months exploring the Hawaiian islands. You help people along the way, and you get paid for it.”

–Kelly Kilcoyne, NICU travel nurse

Travel Nursing Jobs

Aya has the most travel nursing assignments in the country.

We don’t have anything that matches your search right now — but we update our jobs daily, so check back soon! Or register now , update your profile and save job searches to be notified when a job that matches your parameters becomes available!

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Aya delivers:

• Unlimited complimentary CEUs through MedBridge. Access unlimited CEUs that count towards licensing and additional education hours.
• The most jobs in the industry. We have the largest and most reliable job database, which means the jobs you see are open, updated in real time and ready for you!
• Competitive advantage over other agencies. Front-of-the-line access through our direct facility relationships — many with quick (even same-day) offers, giving you the best chance of securing your ideal opportunity.
• Expedited licensing and streamlined compliance. An industry-leading on-time start rate and strong relationships with boards of nursing across the country to accelerate the process in all 50 states.
• Expert career guidance. A dedicated recruiter to help you achieve your dream career. Travel, per diem, permanent — we have the reach and access to get you the jobs you want, and the expertise to help you realize your long-term goals.
• A best-in-class support system and an exceptional experience. Enjoy accurate, weekly pay, and an entire team dedicated to your happiness on assignment, 24/7.

Plus, you get everything you expect from the largest healthcare staffing company in the industry:

• Exceptional benefits, including premium medical, dental, vision and life insurance beginning day one of your assignment. Want to take time off? Keep insurance coverage for up to 24 days between assignments.
• A generous 401(k) match.
• Paid company housing (we'll help you bring your pets along, too!) or a generous housing stipend.
• Paid sick time in accordance with all applicable state, federal, and local laws. Aya's general sick leave policy is that employees accrue one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked. However, to the extent any provisions of the statement above conflict with any applicable paid sick leave laws, the applicable paid sick leave laws are controlling.
• The industry's only clinical ladder program for RNs on assignment.
• Access to unlimited continuing education units online.
• Licensure, relocation and other reimbursements, when applicable.
• Pay listed above includes taxable wages and tax-free expense reimbursements.

For all employees and employee applicants, Aya is an Equal Employment Opportunity ("EEO") Employer, including Disability/Vets, and welcomes all to apply. Please click here for our EEO policy.

FOR THIS TYPE OF EMPLOYMENT STATE LAW REQUIRES A CRIMINAL RECORD CHECK AS A CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT.

Join Aya for the most career options

Aya Healthcare gives you access to the most jobs — and the most exclusive opportunities — in the industry. We have strong relationships with leading facilities nationwide, and job options to support your personal and professional goals. Whether you want to put down roots with a permanent role, explore the country with a travel job or pick up per diem shifts close to home, Aya’s got you covered.

Log in today and:

• Search jobs
• View pay & facility details
• Get real-time job notifications

Register now to get started.

• A rental car and bi-weekly weekend travel home.

With Aya Locums you get:

• Access to top hospitals and healthcare systems in diverse care settings.
• Highly competitive, transparent locum tenens pay.
• Dedicated application and assignment support.
• In-house credentialing and licensing teams.
• Full coverage of licensing costs.
• Travel and lodging coverage.
• Easy timekeeping and streamlined management of documents.
• Malpractice coverage and risk management support.
• Premium medical, dental, vision and life insurance beginning day one of your assignment.
• Paid sick time. Aya provides paid sick leave in accordance with all applicable state, federal, and local laws. Aya's general sick leave policy is that employees accrue one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked. However, to the extent any provisions of the statement above conflict with any applicable paid sick leave laws, the applicable paid sick leave laws are controlling.
• Generous 401k match.
• Aya may provide other benefits where required by applicable law, including but not limited to reimbursements.
• Aya coordinates all travel and lodging accommodations.
• Travel information is received the evening prior to your scheduled departure.
• Airfare is covered and, if driving to the assignment, reimbursement is available.
• Once notice is received, communication from our team is sent via email and text to ensure you are kept in the loop as soon as information becomes available.
• Your safety is Aya's top priority. We work closely with the facility to ensure additional security measures are taken onsite so you can focus on what really matters: patient care.
• Licensure, relocation and other reimbursements.

Experience the Aya difference today

• A dedicated recruiter who advocates for you every step of the way.
• We'll ensure the hiring manager prioritizes your interest and schedules an interview quickly.
• A streamlined hiring process means offers are often presented within 24-48 hours after an interview with a hiring leader.
• Flexible start dates that work around your availability.
• We make it simple with one point of contact the entire time.
• University of Washington (UW) offers a wide range of benefits as part of your total compensation package. Choose from top medical and dental insurance programs; plan for your future with tax-deferred investing through the UW retirement options; enjoy generous vacation and sick leave policies; and protect yourself and your family with life and long-term disability insurance. For more information, follow the links shown below or explore the Benefits website at http://hr.uw.edu/benefits/

With Aya, you get:

• Higher compensation - we negotiate on your behalf.
• Work-life balance - contracts are up to 40 hours per week, with workdays ending mid-late afternoon and weekends off!
• An employee advocate - our team ensures you have the support needed to be successful in your role.
• Options post contract - extend, convert to a permanent employee or find a new job.
• Paid company housing (pets are welcome to tag along) or a generous housing stipend.
• If qualified, continued insurance coverage over the summer.
• A generous 401k match.
• A robust team to support you every step of the way.
• A credentialing specialist to streamline the entire compliance process.
• Freedom and flexibility around your current schedule.
• The easy-to-use Shifts app. Select shifts anytime, anywhere.
• Premium medical, dental, vision and life insurance.
• Front-of-the-line access to exclusive jobs at thousands of healthcare facilities nationwide.
• A robust team to support you every step of the way to ensure you start on time, have accurate payroll and an exceptional experience.
• Certification and other reimbursements, when applicable.

Privacy Overview

• Travel Nursing
• Local Nursing
• Allied & Therapy
• Locum Tenens
• School Jobs
• Life Sciences & Technology

Find Travel Nursing Jobs

Your connection to the right traveling nurse jobs. Explore the country while gaining valuable nursing experience.

Search Travel Nursing Positions

Discover your next travel nurse job.

Learn more about travel nurse pay and benefits, how to become an RN traveler, requirements for nursing travel and Aequor’s newest travel nursing assignments. With Aequor, you can enjoy the freedom to advance your nursing career and travel the country, all while earning and learning. Live the traveler life, expand your skill set, gain on-the-job experience, meet new people and explore new locations every few months as a traveling nurse with Aequor.

WHY AEQUOR?

Not only are there perks at the facility where you’re hired, but Aequor takes care of you, too! A few reasons you’ll want us working for you:

Dedicated Recruiters

Your partner & guide for navigating the career journey that’s right for you.

Self-Service Technology

From job search to on-the-job, Aequor Talent Portal is your all-in-one traveler companion.

High Pay & Great Benefits

Earn more as a traveler, plus stipends, tax breaks & day one insurance benefits.

Advocacy & Support

24/7 team support & our Director of Nursing advocates for you on assignment.

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Travel nurse pay & benefits, competitive pay packages.

Based upon your specialty, location and other benefits

Weekly direct deposit

Sick days/PTO (some facilities)

Potential Bonuses

• Completion/Attendance Bonuses
• Extra Time Compensation
• Referral Bonuses up to $1,500 each hire
• State Licensing Map
• Travel Nursing 101
• Housing Resources
• Nursing Salary Insights

DAY ONE Insurance

• Accident & short-term disability

Other Benefits

• 401k after first year
• Credentialing assistance
• CEU/Tuition reimbursement
• Professional development opportunities
• Travel Nursing: You Can Do Anything
• I’m Hooked on Travel Nursing!

Stipends & Reimbursements

Depending on the location of your assignment, you may be eligible to receive part of your compensation in tax-free stipends for housing & meals. Contact a recruiter to learn more.

• The Inside Scoop on Housing from a Veteran Traveler’s Perspective
• Furnished Finder
• The Gypsy Nurse Facebook Housing Group

Tax laws vary depending upon where you live & where you work, so we recommend consulting with a tax professional.

• Tax Tips for Travelers
• TravelTax.com

Benefits & Advantages of Travel Nursing

Overall, being a travel nurse offers a unique and rewarding career path with numerous benefits and advantages, including travel adventures, professional growth, higher earning potential, flexibility, exposure to diverse clinical settings, opportunities for networking, learning, personal growth and fulfillment, and enhanced work-life balance.

Adventure & Personal Fulfillment

Travel nurses have the flexibility to choose assignments in different cities and states, which allows them to mix work and play while experiencing diverse cultures and environments. Exploring new places, meeting new people, and helping patients in different communities can be personally rewarding and provide a sense of purpose and satisfaction, which are all excellent remedies for nurse burnout.

Professional Growth

Travel nursing can provide opportunities for professional growth and development. By working in different healthcare facilities with diverse patient populations and various levels of care, a travel nurse can expand their skill set and knowledge base. This can boost their resume and make them more marketable in future career pursuits.

Networking & Professional Connections

Working with different healthcare professionals allows travel nurses to build a professional network, which can open doors to future career opportunities. Building connections with fellow nurses, physicians, and other healthcare staff can also provide a support system while working in new and unfamiliar environments.

Higher Earning Potential

Travel nurses often earn higher pay rates compared to permanent staff nurses. Along with competitive salaries, travel nurses may receive stipends for meals and housing, travel reimbursements, and bonuses, all of which can increase their overall earning potential.

Flexibility & Independence

Travel nursing offers flexibility in terms of assignment duration, scheduling, and location. Travel nurses can have more control over their work-life balance and enjoy the freedom to take breaks between assignments or take time off to pursue personal interests.

Exposure to Diverse Clinical Settings

Travel nurses have the opportunity to work in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and specialty units. This allows them to gain exposure to diverse clinical settings and develop a well-rounded skill set.

Personal Growth

Travel nursing can foster personal growth by helping nurses develop resilience, adaptability, and independence. It can also promote personal self-discovery and cultural awareness by immersing nurses in different communities and allowing them to learn from diverse patient populations.

Learning Opportunities

Adapting to different healthcare systems, policies, and procedures can broaden a travel nurse’s knowledge and experience, making them more versatile and flexible as healthcare professionals.

Enhanced Work-Life Balance

Travel nurses can choose assignments with schedules that suit their preferences. This can allow them to spend quality time with family and friends or pursue personal interests, leading to a better work-life balance and a more fulfilling lifestyle.

Become an Aequor Travel Nurse

Our Hiring Process

1. ONE-CLICK APPLY

Complete your Aequor Talent Portal profile, find & apply for your next job with one click.

Skip the line & connect with a recruiter—your advocate & guide in qualifying for submission to hiring managers.

Work with your recruiter on the skills checklist, licensing & certification docs & submit to openings you’re interested in.

4. INTERVIEW

Meet with the hiring managers of top facilities & make sure this is the right job for you.

Receive a job offer with our congratulations! Accept the offer & start your career with Aequor.

to the Aequor Family! Do what you love & love what you do.

Search Travel Nurse Job Opportunities

Find Your Travel RN Job

30+ Travel Nursing Specialties

CVOR – Cardiovascular OR Nurse

ER – Emergency Room Nurse

ICU – Intensive Care Unit Nurse

L&D – Labor & Delivery Nurse

Med Surg – Medical Surgical Nurse

Oncology Nurse

OR – Operating Room Nurse

NICU – Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse

PICU – Pediatric Intensive Care Nurse

Tele – Telemetry Nurse

Support & Be Supported

The best advice comes from those who've learned the hard way. Join Aequor’s Traveler Community—support each other and be supported. Share stories, lessons learned, resources and your passion for travel nursing.

• Read Aequor Perspectives : We love to hear and share your traveler stories!
• Read Advice from Recruiters : Aequor recruiters share their top tips for travelers.
• Meet other Aequor Travelers through our social communities!

Get the Aequor Talent Portal App

Travel nursing assignments, right in your pocket..

Get instant access to thousands of travel nurse jobs that fit your lifestyle and location. Aequor's self-service technology connects you with your next gig and keeps track of all the details, so you can focus on your patients and doing what you love.

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Get paid for referrals.

Why Travel Nurses Choose Aequor

As a first-time traveler, Aequor was very helpful in finding exactly what I wanted. My recruiter went above and beyond... She was so personal and checked in on me throughout the week.

Aequor & my recruiter, Leanne, made my first travel assignment a breeze. Great company to work with!

I think Aequor must be a wonderful company by the way I’ve been taken care of. I feel so thankful that I was able to find a job with such an amazing recruiter!!!

FAQs Answered

What is travel nursing.

Travel nursing is a profession in which registered nurses accept temporary assignments in various healthcare facilities across different locations. These short-term assignments (usually 13 weeks) allow nurses to explore different cities or regions while gaining diverse clinical experience. Travel nurses often enjoy higher pay rates, a weekly meal and housing stipend, and travel reimbursements as part of their compensation packages.

What are the requirements to become a travel nurse?

• Minimum of 2 years’ experience as an RN with recent specialty experience in the last 12 months
• Active, unencumbered license or certification
• Minimum of two professional supervisor references

How can I expedite my nursing license in all states?

You can apply for a “compact license” that is honored in 40 states and jurisdictions under the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). Your permanent residence must be in a compact state, otherwise you’ll need to apply for a license in the state where you wish to work. For more information about state licensing and certification requirements, visit our Licensing Map that includes links and details by discipline.

Resources: Nurse Licensure Guidance – Tool for state-specific nurse licensure guidance Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) –NLC member states and links to states’ nursing regulatory boards Nursys® – Look up and verify your RN license status

What are the eligibility requirements for travel stipends? 

• Travel more than 50 miles from permanent residence where you file taxes
• Duplicate expenses (paying for housing in two places)
• Work in one location no more than a year.

What’s the best way to find travel nurse housing?

There are multiple ways travelers secure housing. One of the most important considerations is to do your research before committing to a lease. Learn more from Nurse Ann Marie in our article, “Housing from a Veteran’s Perspective.” Other resources: Furnished Finder or The Gypsy Nurse Facebook Housing Group

What about traveling with my family & pets?

The traveler life works for many families—whether you’re just bringing a partner or the whole package—kids, dogs, cats and the hamster—it’s your housing that will be the determining factor in who you decide to bring along. Find pet & family-friendly options through Furnished Finder or The Gypsy Nurse Facebook Housing Group .

Recent Blog Posts

10 tips for first-time travelers, essential back-to-school supplies for paraprofessionals, supporting students with special needs during transitions back to school, a history of special education: milestones and progress.

25 Highest Paying States For Travel Nurses In 2023

Traveling around the country is a desirable possibility for nurses like me who want to make more money and shake up our professional life. Not only is there the potential for a higher salary, but there is also the excitement of visiting new places. Most nurses considering traveling look for the highest-paying states for travel nurses. After years of contemplation, I took a travel assignment in California because I needed to make money quickly while in graduate school and was relocating out west that year. Before I made a significant thirteen-week move across the country, I looked up “What are the highest paying states for travel nurses?” What I found after all my research surprised me! This article covers the 25 highest-paying states for travel nurses in 2023.

What is the Average Salary for Travel Nurses in the United States?

What are the Highest-Paying States for Travel Nurses?

State #1: california.

STATE #2: Hawaii

STATE #3: Oregon

STATE #4: Massachusetts

STATE #5: Alaska

STATE #6: Washington

STATE #7: New York

STATE #8: New Jersey

STATE #9: Nevada

STATE #10: Connecticut

STATE #11: Minnesota

STATE #12: Rhode Island

STATE #13: Maryland

STATE #14: Arizona

STATE #15: Colorado

STATE #16: New Mexico

STATE #17: Georgia

STATE #18: Delaware

STATE #19: Texas

STATE #20: New Hampshire

STATE #21: Illinois

STATE #22: Virginia

STATE #23: Wyoming

STATE #24: Wisconsin

STATE #25: Michigan

My Final Thoughts

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

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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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These are the 10 highest-paying AI-proof jobs, report says

If you're worried artificial intelligence will replace you, a new report from ResumeGenius might be of interest. The report ranks the 10 highest-paying positions that are highly unlikely to be replaced by AI.

All 10 positions carry a median salary of at least $78,100, and are considered "growing."

The report indicates that physical assistant is the No. 1 job for those looking for something high-paying that is unlikely to be replaced by AI. The Bureau of Labor Statistics said the median salary in the field is over $130,000. The number of physician assistants is expected to increase by 33% from 2023 through 2033.

RELATED STORY | More Americans are boosting their income with the help of artificial intelligence

ResumeGenius claims there is a 0% of AI job takeover risk for physician assistants.

Similarly, nurse practitioners have a 0% of AI job takeover. Federal stats show median incomes in the field exceed $129,000 and positions are expected to grow by 38% between 2023 and 2033.

Among the top 10 jobs, only medical and health services managers do not need an advanced degree. The position, which normally requires a bachelor's degree, has a median salary of over $110,000. The position has a 16.3% chance of AI takeover and is expected to grow by 28% between 2023-2033.

Here is a look at the top 10 AI-proof jobs, according to the study:

• Physician assistants
• Nurse practitioners
• Veterinarians
• Medical and health services managers
• Physical therapists
• Occupational therapists
• Speech-language pathologists
• Audiologists
• Epidemiologists
• Orthotists and prosthetists

To develop the list, ResumeGenius said it used three criteria: A minimum U.S. median annual salary of $48,060, an estimated job growth rate of over 10% for the 2022–2032 period, and a less than 20% risk of automation. RELATED STORY | How businesses are increasingly embracing the use of artificial intelligence

The report says that many of these positions are AI-proof because of the soft skills and emotional intelligence needed to do the work.

For jobs not listed, the report does not suggest people should fear AI. The report suggests workers should learn how to use AI to their advantage.

"Experts agree that AI will likely create more jobs than it eliminates," ResumeGenius' report says. "At the same time, the ability to continuously adapt and develop new skills will be crucial to success in the job market of the future."

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