Introduction
Travel nursing is a type of nursing job that involves working as a registered nurse (RN) in different locations for short-term assignments. This type of job gives nurses the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, explore new places, and gain valuable experience. But how much do traveling RNs make?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median hourly wage for RNs in 2019 was $34.48. However, this figure does not take into account the benefits and other factors that can influence the salaries of travel nurses.
Benefits of Being a Traveling RN
Travel nursing offers a number of advantages. Here are just a few:
Higher Pay Rates
One of the biggest benefits of being a travel nurse is the potential to earn higher wages than those of permanent nursing positions. This is because travel nurses are often paid a premium for their flexibility and willingness to move around. Additionally, because of the high demand for travel nurses, many hospitals and healthcare facilities are willing to offer competitive pay rates in order to attract the best talent.
Variety of Locations
Another benefit of travel nursing is the ability to experience a variety of locations. While some travel nurses may choose to stay in one area, others may enjoy the adventure of exploring different parts of the country. This can be a great way to gain new perspectives and experiences while still earning a living.
Flexibility of Schedule
Travel nursing also offers flexibility in terms of scheduling. Unlike permanent nursing positions, which often require a set schedule, travel nurses have the freedom to choose when and where they work. This can be a great way to balance work and life commitments.
How to Maximize Your Earnings as a Traveling RN
As with any job, there are ways to maximize your earnings as a travel nurse. Here are a few tips:
Negotiate Salary
Travel nurses should always negotiate their salary before taking a position. Hospitals and healthcare facilities typically have a range of salaries that they are willing to offer, and it’s important to make sure that you’re getting the best rate possible.
Take Advantage of Bonuses and Incentives
Many hospitals and healthcare facilities offer bonuses and incentives to attract talented travel nurses. Be sure to ask about these when negotiating your salary so that you can maximize your earnings.
Maximize Per Diem Rates
Travel nurses are usually paid a per diem rate in addition to their salary. Taking advantage of this rate can help to increase your overall earnings. For example, if you are working in an expensive city, you may be able to negotiate a higher per diem rate to cover the cost of living.
Comparing Travel RN Salaries Across Different States
Travel RN salaries vary depending on the location. Some states tend to offer higher pay rates than others. Here is a look at the highest and lowest paying states for travel RNs:
Highest Paying States for Travel RNs
The states with the highest pay rates for travel RNs include California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, New York, and Alaska. These states generally offer the highest salaries due to the high demand for nurses in these areas.
Lowest Paying States for Travel RNs
On the other hand, the states with the lowest pay rates for travel RNs include South Dakota, Mississippi, Arkansas, West Virginia, and Alabama. These states generally offer lower salaries due to the lower demand for nurses in these areas.
The Pros and Cons of Travel Nursing
Travel nursing has its pros and cons. Here are a few of them:
Pros
One of the biggest advantages of travel nursing is the potential to earn higher wages than those of permanent nursing positions. Additionally, travel nursing offers flexibility in terms of scheduling, as well as the opportunity to experience a variety of locations.
Cons
On the other hand, travel nursing can be difficult if you are looking for stability. Additionally, because of the short-term nature of the job, it can be hard to build relationships with patients and colleagues.
What Factors Influence Travel Nurse Pay Rates?
There are several factors that can influence travel nurse pay rates. These include:
Experience
The more experience a travel nurse has, the more likely they are to command higher pay rates. Hospitals and healthcare facilities are willing to pay a premium for experienced nurses who can hit the ground running and provide quality care.
Specialization
Nurses who specialize in a particular area of medicine, such as pediatrics or neonatal care, are likely to be offered higher pay rates than those without specialized training. Specialized nurses can provide a level of expertise that is not always available in a general nursing role.
Location
The location of the position can also influence travel nurse pay rates. Nurses who are willing to work in rural or underserved areas may be offered higher pay rates in order to entice them to work in these areas.
A Comparison of Travel RN Salaries Versus Permanent RN Salaries
When comparing travel RN salaries to those of permanent RNs, it’s important to consider the benefits of each. Here is a look at the differences between the two:
Permanent RN Salaries
Permanent RN salaries tend to be lower than those of travel RNs. This is because permanent RNs are expected to commit to a certain amount of hours and are usually not offered the same bonuses and incentives as travel nurses. However, permanent RNs do have the benefit of a stable income and the ability to build relationships with patients and colleagues.
Travel RN Salaries
Travel RN salaries are typically higher than those of permanent RNs. This is because travel nurses are often offered higher pay rates due to their flexibility and willingness to move around. Additionally, travel nurses may also be eligible for bonuses and incentives, as well as per diem rates. However, travel nurses do not have the stability of a permanent job and may have difficulty building relationships with patients and colleagues.
Conclusion
Travel nursing can be a great way to explore new places and gain valuable experience. However, it’s important to consider the benefits and drawbacks of the job before making a decision. Additionally, understanding the factors that influence travel nurse pay rates can help you maximize your earnings.
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