Travel Nursing Pay Breakdown: Salary, Stipends & Perks

One of the most enticing aspects of travel nurse jobs is the opportunity to earn a competitive salary while enjoying additional perks like stipends and reimbursements. But how exactly does travel nursing pay work? And how can you ensure you're getting the best travel nurse jobs with top-tier compensation?

This blog offers a comprehensive breakdown of what travel nurses can expect in terms of salary, stipends, and perks. 

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How Travel Nursing Pay Works 

1. Taxable Pay  

This includes your hourly wage, which is subject to federal, state, and local taxes. Your taxable pay rate may seem lower than that of a staff nurse, but don’t worry—this is where the non-taxable benefits make a difference. 

2. Non-Taxable Income

Non-taxable compensation is where travel nurses find additional financial advantages. This includes stipends for housing, meals, and incidentals, often paid out weekly. Non-taxable income is not subject to federal income tax, meaning you get to take home more of your earnings. 

Understanding these two components helps you look beyond just the hourly rate or salary and evaluate compensation packages more effectively. 

Average Travel Nursing Salary

The base salary for travel nurses can vary depending on factors like location, specialization, and experience. While staff nurses in the U.S. earn an average of $77,600 annually, travel nurses often earn significantly more. On average, travel nursing jobs pay between $80,000 and $120,000 per year, with some roles offering even higher salaries for in-demand nurse specialties like ICU, NICU, and OR nursing. 

Influencing Factors for Travel Nurse Salary 

Nurse Travel Assignment Location  

High-cost-of-living areas, like California or New York, often offer higher salaries to offset expenses. Similarly, facilities in rural or underserved areas may provide premium pay to attract talent. Consider reading our blog about the best cities for travel nurses. 

Travel Nurse Specialty  

Specialization plays a big role. Nurses in high-demand areas like critical care, emergency nursing, or labor and delivery can earn more than those in general medical-surgical roles. 

Nursing Experience  

Travel nurses with several years of clinical experience can negotiate for higher pay packages compared to entry-level candidates. 

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Stipends and Reimbursements for Travel Nurses 

What makes travel nursing jobs truly stand out are the stipends and reimbursements that go beyond your hourly wage. Here's what to expect: 

1. Housing Stipends  

Travel nurses either receive free company-provided housing or a housing stipend if they choose to find their own accommodation. Read about travel nurse housing stipends and placement in Free Rent? The Ins and Outs of Travel Nurse Housing. 

2. Meal and Incidentals Allowance 

 This stipend is intended to cover daily expenses like meals and other costs related to living in a new location. 

3. Travel Reimbursements  

Travel nurses are usually reimbursed for travel expenses like flights, mileage, or transportation to and from their assignment location. 

Additional Perks that Set Travel Nursing Apart 

On top of stipends and reimbursements, many of the best travel nurse jobs come with extra perks that increase the overall appeal of this career path: 

1. Licensing and Credential Reimbursement  

Moving to a new state often requires obtaining a nursing license valid in that region. AMN Healthcare will help guide you through the licensing process. They may also assist with credential compliance like obtaining BLS, ACLS, or PALS certification. 

2. Health Benefits  

AMN Healthcare offer comprehensive benefits such as: health benefits, including vision and dental insurance, coverage begin from day one of your assignment.

3. Retirement Plans  

AMN include 401(k), giving you a way to save for the future while working assignments that pay handsomely in the present. 

4. Professional Growth Opportunities  

Taking on travel nursing jobs exposes you to diverse healthcare systems, facilities, and staff. This experience enhances your resume and opens doors to higher-paying opportunities as you build expertise in different clinical settings. 

Why Travel Nursing Pays Off 

Travel nursing jobs are a lucrative career option and provide opportunities for adventure, professional growth, and work-life balance. With competitive salaries, generous stipends, and unmatched flexibility, travel nursing offers a unique compensation model that stands out in the healthcare field. 

By understanding the breakdown of travel nursing pay—salary, stipends, and all the added perks—you can make more informed decisions about your career and find the best travel nurse jobs for your needs. 

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