Introduction
Travel nursing is an increasingly popular career choice for those in the medical field. As a traveling nurse, you have the opportunity to work in a variety of locations and specialties, while still receiving competitive pay and benefits. But how much do traveling nurses actually make?
The average salary of a traveling nurse varies depending on several factors, such as education, experience, location, and specialization. There are also different types of travel nursing positions, each with their own pay scale. Additionally, there are tips and strategies for negotiating higher pay as a traveling nurse. In this article, we’ll explore all of these topics and more to help you better understand the earning potential of a traveling nurse.
Overview of the Average Salary of a Traveling Nurse
According to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for registered nurses was $73,300 in May 2019. However, the average salary for traveling nurses can be significantly higher than this amount. According to PayScale, the average hourly rate for traveling nurses is between $30 and $45 per hour, with an average annual salary of $63,000.
In addition to a competitive salary, traveling nurses often receive additional benefits such as health insurance, paid vacation time, and relocation expenses. These benefits can vary depending on the employer, so it’s important to research the specific job before accepting it.
Factors That Influence How Much a Traveling Nurse Makes
There are a few key factors that can influence the salary of a traveling nurse. Understanding these factors can help you decide which type of travel nursing position is best for you.
Education and Experience
The level of education and experience you have will play a role in the salary you receive as a traveling nurse. Generally speaking, those with higher levels of education and more experience will be able to command higher salaries. For example, a nurse with a bachelor’s degree may earn more than a nurse with an associate’s degree. Similarly, a nurse with five years of experience may earn more than a nurse with two years of experience.
Location
The location of a travel nursing assignment can also affect the salary. Generally speaking, traveling nurses will earn more in large cities than in rural areas. This is due to the higher cost of living in urban areas. Additionally, certain states may have higher wages for nurses than others. For example, nurses in California tend to earn more than nurses in other states.
Specialization
The type of travel nursing position also plays a role in determining salary. Certain specialties, such as critical care or operating room nursing, tend to pay more than other specialties. For example, according to PayScale, the average hourly rate for a critical care nurse is between $35 and $50 per hour, whereas the average hourly rate for a pediatric nurse is between $25 and $40 per hour.
Different Types of Travel Nursing Positions and Their Pay
There are many different types of travel nursing positions available, each with its own pay scale. Here are some of the most common types of travel nursing positions and their associated salaries:
Critical Care
Critical care nurses provide care for critically ill patients in intensive care units. They monitor and assess patient conditions, administer medications, and provide emotional support to patients and families. The average hourly rate for critical care nurses is between $35 and $50 per hour.
Emergency Room
Emergency room nurses provide care for patients in emergency situations. They assess patient conditions, administer treatments, and provide emotional support and comfort. The average hourly rate for emergency room nurses is between $30 and $45 per hour.
Operating Room
Operating room nurses provide care for patients undergoing surgical procedures. They assist surgeons during operations, monitor vital signs, and provide post-operative care. The average hourly rate for operating room nurses is between $35 and $50 per hour.
Pediatric Nursing
Pediatric nurses provide care for infants, children, and adolescents. They assess patient conditions, administer treatments, and provide emotional support and comfort. The average hourly rate for pediatric nurses is between $25 and $40 per hour.
Tips for Negotiating Higher Pay as a Traveling Nurse
Although the average salary for a traveling nurse is already quite competitive, there are ways to increase your earnings even further. Here are a few tips to help you negotiate higher pay for your next travel nursing assignment:
Research Market Rates
Before you start negotiating, it’s important to do your research. Look up the market rates for the type of position you’re applying for in the area where you’ll be working. This will give you an idea of what other traveling nurses in the same area are making, and will help you determine what a reasonable salary would be.
Understand Your Value
It’s important to understand your value as a traveling nurse. Think about your level of experience, education, and any specialized skills you have. Use this information to demonstrate your worth when negotiating your salary.
Have an Open Dialogue with Agencies
When negotiating your salary, it’s important to have an open dialogue with the agency you’re working with. Be honest about your expectations and explain why you believe you deserve a higher salary. You may be surprised at how willing they are to accommodate your requests.
The Future of Travel Nursing: What Will Salaries Look Like?
The demand for travel nurses is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the number of registered nurses is projected to increase by 12% between 2018 and 2028, leading to an increased need for travel nurses.
At the same time, there is a growing shortage of nurses in the United States. This means that travel nurses are in high demand and can command higher salaries. Additionally, some agencies have started offering signing bonuses and other incentives to attract and retain talented nurses.
These factors could lead to higher salaries for traveling nurses in the future. It’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest trends in the industry to ensure you’re getting the most out of your travel nursing assignments.
Conclusion
Travel nursing is an exciting and rewarding career option for those in the medical field. The salary of a traveling nurse can vary depending on several factors, such as education, experience, location, and specialization. Additionally, there are tips and strategies for negotiating higher pay as a traveling nurse. With the increasing demand for travel nurses and the growing shortage of nurses, the future of travel nursing looks bright, with potential for higher salaries in the future.
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