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Travel nursing is a career path that offers a unique opportunity to work in different parts of the country while gaining valuable experience and earning a higher income. As a travel nurse, you’ll work in various healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes, on short-term assignments that typically last 13 weeks or more.
Top-Paying States for Travel Nurses
If you’re interested in becoming a travel nurse, you may be wondering which states offer the highest salaries. Based on recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are the top-paying states for travel nurses:
| State | Average Hourly Rate | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| California | $54.44 | $113,130 |
| New York | $46.46 | $96,700 |
| Massachusetts | $43.26 | $89,980 |
| New Jersey | $42.61 | $88,610 |
| Alaska | $42.51 | $88,410 |
As you can see, California is the highest paying state for travel nurses, with an average hourly rate of $54.44 and an annual salary of $113,130. New York, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Alaska round out the top five.
Factors That Affect Travel Nurse Salaries
While location is a significant factor in travel nurse salaries, several other factors can impact your earnings, including:
Experience: The more experience you have as a registered nurse, the higher your pay rate will typically be.
Specialty: Certain specialties, such as critical care and emergency room nursing, may command higher pay rates than others.
Fall and Winter Seasons: These seasons have seen increased need for traveling nurses, which led to higher pay rates
FAQ
Q: Do travel nurses make more than regular nurses?
A: Generally, travel nurses make more money than regular nurses due to the high demand for their services and the need for them to be flexible with their work assignments.
Q: Can travel nurses choose where they work?
A: Yes, travel nurses have the freedom to choose the locations where they want to work. They can select from a variety of assignments across the country.
Q: How long does a typical travel nursing contract last?
A: Typically, travel nursing contracts last between 8-26 weeks, with the average being 13 weeks. However, some contracts may be shorter or longer, depending on the needs of the healthcare facility.
Q: Are travel nurses required to have a specialized certification?
A: While not always required, having a specialized certification in a particular nursing specialty can make a travel nurse more marketable and increase their earning potential.
Q: Is it possible for travel nurses to work internationally?
A: Yes, some travel nursing agencies offer international assignments in countries such as Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom.