1. How much do Travel Nurses Make?
Travel nursing is a growing area of the healthcare industry, and as such, many nurses are asking, “How much do travel nurses make?” According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for all registered nurses was $71,730 in May 2018. This number, however, does not reflect the wages of travel nurses. To understand the wages of a travel nurse, it is important to understand the unique advantages of travel nursing and how those advantages translate into wages for these nurses.
2. Advantages of Travel Nursing
Travel nursing offers unique advantages over traditional nursing:
– Flexibility. Travel nurses are able to pick and choose where and when they work. This allows them to explore new areas and work on interesting assignments that may not be available in their home area.
– Higher pay. Travel nurses typically earn higher wages due to the additional experience that comes with working in a variety of settings.
– Opportunity for adventure. Unlike traditional nurses who are often restricted to the same locale and setting, travel nurses are able to explore new places, meet new people, and try new things.
– Variety of settings. A travel nurse’s assignments can take them to a variety of settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, etc.
3. Average Salary of a Travel Nurse
Due to the additional advantages of travel nursing, these nurses can expect to make significantly more than their peers. According to the BLS, the average salary for a travel nurse is between $50,000 and $90,000 per year. The exact salary will depend on the nurse’s level of experience, the location of the assignment, the specialty of the assignment, and the length of the assignment.
Recommendations
For those interested in travel nursing, the best way to maximize your earning potential is to gain experience in a variety of settings, be willing to travel to various locations, and explore any additional certification opportunities that may be available in your area of specialty. Additionally, it is wise to network with other travel nurses and learn about the opportunities that are available. This can help you find assignments that offer better pay and unique experiences.
