How much does a Traveling Nurse make?
Traveling Nurses have a rewarding career that often comes with a good salary. The average yearly salary for a Traveling Nurse stands at approximately $115,678. This provides a reliable income for those who choose this path.
Considering the different experience levels, the salaries can vary. The lower end of the spectrum pays around $73,320, while the higher end can reach up to $170,560. This range allows for significant growth as experience and skills develop. More experienced Traveling Nurses often find themselves at the higher end of this spectrum.
What are the highest paying cities for a Traveling Nurse?

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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $149,635
Working in Stockton offers a dynamic healthcare environment with opportunities at major hospitals like Kaiser Permanente and Adventist Health. The city's growing population increases the demand for skilled nurses, ensuring a steady flow of diverse medical experiences.
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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $145,362
Salinas provides a rich nursing experience with renowned healthcare providers such as Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula. The city’s vibrant culture and proximity to the coast make it an appealing destination for travel nurses seeking both professional growth and personal enjoyment.
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Chico, CA
Average Salary: $140,173
Chico’s healthcare sector, supported by Enloe Medical Center, offers a serene yet enriching environment for travel nurses. The area's natural beauty and educational institutions like California State University provide a balanced work-life experience.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $139,997
San Jose presents a bustling healthcare landscape with opportunities at prominent facilities like Stanford Health Care and Kaiser Permanente. The tech-savvy environment offers unique challenges and learning experiences, making it an exciting place for travel nurses.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $138,685
In San Francisco, travel nurses can work at leading healthcare institutions such as UCSF Health and Zuckerberg San Francisco General. The city’s vibrant atmosphere and high demand for medical services provide a dynamic and rewarding nursing experience.
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Billings, MT
Average Salary: $138,110
Billings boasts a supportive healthcare community with facilities like St. Vincent Healthcare and Billings Clinic. The city’s friendly environment and scenic surroundings create a welcoming atmosphere for travel nurses.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $137,879
Fresno’s healthcare sector, featuring top hospitals like Saint Agnes Medical Center, offers diverse experiences for travel nurses. The city's agricultural richness and cultural events provide a unique backdrop to a rewarding nursing career.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $136,724
Bakersfield provides a thriving healthcare environment with major hospitals like Kern Medical Center and Adventist Health Bakersfield. The city's warm climate and community spirit make it an attractive location for travel nurses.
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Syracuse, NY
Average Salary: $135,830
Syracuse offers a robust healthcare network with institutions like St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center and Upstate University Hospital. The city’s historical charm and vibrant arts scene provide a fulfilling experience for travel nurses.
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Ann Arbor, MI
Average Salary: $135,383
Ann Arbor’s healthcare field, highlighted by the University of Michigan Health System, offers cutting-edge opportunities for travel nurses. The city's academic atmosphere and cultural events create an engaging environment for professional development.
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What are the best companies a Traveling Nurse can work for?

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Premiere Healthcare Staffing
Average Salary: $266,455
Premiere Healthcare Staffing is known for offering top salaries for Traveling Nurses. They place nurses in various locations across the United States, ensuring diverse experiences and high compensation. Their commitment to nurses makes them a sought-after employer.
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Per Diem Staffing Systems, Inc.
Average Salary: $213,281
Per Diem Staffing Systems, Inc. provides excellent opportunities for Traveling Nurses. They operate nationwide and offer competitive pay. Nurses working with this company benefit from flexible assignments and strong support.
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Avant Care Home Health Care, Inc.
Average Salary: $200,000
Avant Care Home Health Care, Inc. offers substantial salaries for Traveling Nurses. They serve multiple states and focus on delivering quality care. Their commitment to nurses results in rewarding career opportunities.
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Sanford Health
Average Salary: $161,940
Sanford Health is a leader in healthcare and provides good compensation for Traveling Nurses. They have locations across several states. Nurses enjoy a supportive environment and many professional growth opportunities.
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MDC Research
Average Salary: $158,642
MDC Research values their Traveling Nurses, offering solid salaries. They operate in several states and offer a variety of assignments. Nurses here benefit from a strong company culture and excellent benefits.
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FlexStaff Careers
Average Salary: $157,182
FlexStaff Careers provides competitive pay for Traveling Nurses. They have assignments in various states. The company offers flexibility and a supportive work environment, making it a great choice for nurses.
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Seven Healthcare
Average Salary: $150,532
Seven Healthcare offers attractive salaries for Traveling Nurses. They have positions in many states. Nurses benefit from a friendly work environment and excellent career support.
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Stability Healthcare
Average Salary: $149,044
Stability Healthcare provides good pay for Traveling Nurses. They operate in multiple states and focus on offering rewarding experiences. Their commitment to nurses leads to a positive working environment.
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Mader MedX
Average Salary: $144,929
Mader MedX offers decent salaries for Traveling Nurses. They have assignments across several states. The company provides a supportive and engaging work environment for nurses.
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Prime Time Healthcare
Average Salary: $143,182
Prime Time Healthcare provides good compensation for Traveling Nurses. They serve multiple states and offer a variety of assignments. Their focus on nurse support results in rewarding career opportunities.
How to earn more as a Traveling Nurse?
Traveling nurses often find themselves in high demand, allowing them to earn more than their stationary counterparts. By working in various locations, nurses can take advantage of higher wages and better benefits. Securing assignments in areas with a nursing shortage can lead to increased pay rates. Additionally, choosing temporary assignments over permanent positions often results in higher hourly wages.
Nurses who gain experience in different healthcare environments become more versatile and valuable. This versatility can lead to higher-paying job opportunities. Specializing in high-demand areas such as intensive care, emergency care, or pediatrics can also result in better compensation. Building a strong network within the travel nursing community allows nurses to discover and secure the best-paying positions.
Understanding contract negotiation can significantly impact a traveling nurse’s earnings. Negotiating for higher pay rates, stipends for housing and travel, and bonuses for specific assignments can lead to a more lucrative career. Continuous professional development and certifications can also open doors to higher-paying opportunities. Here are key factors for earning more as a traveling nurse:
- Work in high-demand locations.
- Gain experience in different healthcare environments.
- Specialize in high-demand nursing areas.
- Build a strong professional network.
- Negotiate better contract terms.



