Travel nursing continues to be one of the most rewarding and flexible career paths in healthcare. With increasing demand for healthcare professionals across the U.S., 2026 is shaping up to be a strong year for travel nurses in terms of salary, benefits, and job opportunities. Whether you’re a seasoned RN considering the travel route or a new nurse exploring career options, understanding the salary landscape is crucial.
What Is the Average Travel Nurse Salary in 2026?
In 2026, the average travel nurse salary in the United States is approximately $103,000 to $115,000 per year, or roughly $2,000 to $2,500 per week, depending on assignment location and specialty. This figure reflects both taxable wages and non-taxable stipends (housing, meals, travel), which significantly boost take-home pay.
Weekly and Hourly Pay Breakdown:
Weekly pay: $2,000 – $3,000
Hourly equivalent: $50 – $75/hour
Take-home pay for $103k salary: Roughly $1,400 – $1,600/week after taxes, depending on tax bracket and state
Factors That Influence Travel Nurse Salaries
Several elements affect how much a travel nurse earns:
1. Location
High-paying states: California, New York, Alaska, Massachusetts, and Washington
Low-cost states with moderate pay: Texas, Florida, Georgia
Urban hospitals and facilities in underserved rural areas often offer higher rates due to demand.
2. Specialty
Specialty roles usually command higher salaries. Examples include:
ICU: $2,500–$3,500/week
OR Nurse: $2,300–$3,000/week
Labor & Delivery: $2,200–$3,000/week
3. Experience Level
New RNs (1–2 years): $1,800–$2,200/week
Mid-level (3–5 years): $2,200–$2,800/week
Experienced (5+ years): $2,800+/week, especially in high-demand areas or specialized units
4. Certifications and Education
Certifications can enhance your value as a travel nurse and increase your earnings potential:
BSN degree often preferred and pays more than an ADN
Certifications such as CCRN, BLS, ACLS, TNCC, and PALS
Compact nursing license expands your job market across state lines
Job Market Trends for Travel Nurses in 2026
High demand continues: With ongoing nurse shortages, especially in rural and critical care settings
Rise in telehealth support roles: Some travel nurses are now aiding remote and hybrid care teams
Shorter contracts, faster placements: Some contracts are as short as 4–8 weeks to fill gaps quickly
Benefits Beyond Base Salary
Travel nurses receive more than just a paycheck. Typical benefits include:
Tax-free housing stipends or company-provided housing
Meal and travel allowances
Health, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) with matching contributions
Completion and referral bonuses
License reimbursement
These perks can add $10,000+ per year to your overall compensation.
Salary by Years of Experience
| Years of Experience | Average Weekly Salary | Estimated Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 0–1 years | $1,800 – $2,200 | $93,600 – $114,400 |
| 2–4 years | $2,200 – $2,600 | $114,400 – $135,200 |
| 5+ years | $2,600 – $3,200+ | $135,200 – $166,400+ |
How to Increase Your Travel Nurse Salary
If you want to maximize your earnings:
Take assignments in high-need areas
Work overtime or night shifts
Gain specialty certifications
Work with reputable travel nurse agencies
Negotiate your contracts carefully
Job Outlook for Travel Nurses
According to recent projections, the travel nursing field is expected to grow by 6% to 9% annually through 2030. Factors driving this include:
Aging population
Nurse retirements
Healthcare staffing shortages
Expansion of healthcare access in rural areas
Conclusion
Travel nursing in 2026 offers an exciting opportunity to earn a competitive salary while exploring new places and expanding your skill set. With average earnings over $100,000, flexible assignments, and growing demand across the country, travel nursing is more than just a job—it’s a lucrative and fulfilling career path. Whether you’re new to the field or a seasoned RN, there’s never been a better time to consider hitting the road.