How much does a Traveling Nurse make?
A Traveling Nurse often enjoys a rewarding career with competitive pay. On average, these professionals earn about $114,913 each year. This range varies based on experience, certifications, and location. The lower end of the scale may start around $70,000, while the higher end can reach up to $171,000. This broad range reflects the diverse opportunities available to those who travel to different places to provide nursing care.
Traveling Nurses can find positions in various settings, from hospitals to clinics, and each may offer different salaries. Specialties, such as pediatric or critical care, often bring higher pay. Additionally, working in areas with a high demand for nurses can increase earnings. This flexibility allows Traveling Nurses to balance their work and personal life while taking advantage of higher-paying opportunities.
What are the highest paying cities for a Traveling Nurse?

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Visalia, CA
Average Salary: $150,141
Work in Visalia and enjoy the scenic views and outdoor activities. Hospitals like Kaweah Delta Health Care District offer good opportunities. The cost of living is reasonable, making it a great place for nurses.
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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $148,080
Salinas provides a unique blend of agriculture and healthcare. Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System is a key employer. It is a vibrant community with plenty of activities.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $143,218
San Jose is known for its tech industry, but healthcare is also strong. Hospitals like Stanford Health Care offer excellent working conditions. The city is culturally rich with many events.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $142,928
Stockton has a strong community spirit and a growing healthcare sector. St. Joseph's Medical Center is a prominent employer. The city offers a good quality of life.
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Chico, CA
Average Salary: $138,689
Chico offers a quiet, family-friendly environment. Enloe Medical Center provides good opportunities. The city is close to outdoor activities and has a lower cost of living.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $137,705
Fresno is a central hub with a large healthcare network. Community Regional Medical Center is a major employer. It's a growing city with many amenities.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $137,485
San Francisco is a vibrant city with top-notch healthcare facilities. UCSF Health and Kaiser Permanente are leading employers. The city is dynamic, but the cost of living is high.
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Ann Arbor, MI
Average Salary: $135,845
Ann Arbor is home to the University of Michigan, which offers excellent healthcare opportunities. University of Michigan Health is a key employer. The city is intellectually stimulating with many cultural events.
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Lansing, MI
Average Salary: $133,764
Lansing is the state capital with a strong healthcare system. McLaren Greater Lansing is a major employer. The city offers a good balance between work and leisure.
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Santa Maria, CA
Average Salary: $133,562
Santa Maria offers a relaxed lifestyle with great healthcare facilities. French Hospital Medical Center is a leading employer. The city has a small-town feel with beautiful coastal access.
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What are the best companies a Traveling Nurse can work for?

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FlexStaff
Average Salary: $157,250
FlexStaff offers dynamic roles for traveling nurses across various states. Their assignments include many urban and rural settings, allowing for diverse experiences. They provide excellent benefits and focus on career growth.
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Global Technical Talent
Average Salary: $154,369
Global Technical Talent provides traveling nurse jobs in multiple states. Their roles are varied and include assignments in major cities and smaller communities. The company emphasizes professional development and work-life balance.
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All's Well
Average Salary: $148,222
All's Well offers attractive pay for traveling nurses. They have positions available in numerous states, including California and New York. The company supports its nurses with excellent resources and a supportive community.
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Seven Healthcare
Average Salary: $145,376
Seven Healthcare provides diverse opportunities for traveling nurses. They operate nationwide, offering assignments in states like Texas and Florida. The company focuses on providing high-quality care and a positive work environment.
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Stability HealthCare
Average Salary: $145,231
Stability HealthCare offers competitive salaries for traveling nurses. They have positions across the country, including locations in Pennsylvania and Michigan. They support professional growth and offer comprehensive benefits.
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Prime Time Healthcare
Average Salary: $142,073
Prime Time Healthcare has many openings for traveling nurses. They operate in several states, providing varied assignments. The company is dedicated to supporting nurses and enhancing their career paths.
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Allcare Medical Services, LLC
Average Salary: $141,720
Allcare Medical Services, LLC offers solid pay for traveling nurses. They have positions available in states like Ohio and Arizona. The company values its employees and provides strong support systems.
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Sentara
Average Salary: $139,000
Sentara offers rewarding roles for traveling nurses. They have assignments in states such as Virginia and North Carolina. The company prioritizes employee well-being and professional development.
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Trusted Health
Average Salary: $138,039
Trusted Health provides attractive opportunities for traveling nurses. They operate in several states, including Illinois and Colorado. The company focuses on creating a positive and supportive work environment.
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Alto Healthcare Staffing
Average Salary: $137,503
Alto Healthcare Staffing offers good salaries for traveling nurses. They have positions across the country, including states like New Jersey and Maryland. The company values its staff and offers valuable career support.
How to earn more as a Traveling Nurse?
Traveling nursing offers flexibility and can boost your income. Experienced nurses can earn more by choosing the right assignments and locations. Understanding the factors that influence pay can help maximize earnings.
Here are key strategies to earn more as a traveling nurse:
- Choose high-demand specialties. Specialties like ICU, ER, and OR often pay more.
- Work in high-paying states. States like California, New York, and Massachusetts offer higher wages.
- Pick short-term assignments. Short-term contracts can offer higher hourly rates.
- Accept overtime. Many travel nurses can work extra hours for higher pay.
- Negotiate contracts. Negotiating can lead to higher salaries and better benefits.
By selecting the right assignments and locations, traveling nurses can enjoy both job flexibility and a higher income.



