Introduction
Travel nursing is a popular career option that provides healthcare professionals with the opportunity to work in different cities and states while earning good salaries, enhanced benefits packages and valuable work experience. With a rapidly growing demand for healthcare workers amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it has become even more essential to find the best travel nurse assignments.
Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a novice nurse looking for the best travel assignment, there are several things to consider when choosing your ideal travel job. This comprehensive guide will provide you with some of the best travel nurse assignments based on different factors such as specialty, location, and compensation.
Best Travel Nurse Assignments by Speciality
1. Emergency Room Nurse
Emergency room (ER) nurses are needed in several states and cities, including Houston and Dallas. These assignments generally last for 13 weeks, with the possibility of extension. ER nurses earn an average pay rate of $55 per hour, which can go up to $70 an hour in some high-demand locations.
2. Operating Room Nurse
Operating room (OR) nurses are in high demand as well, especially in major cities like Washington and New York. These assignments typically last for 13 weeks with chances of extension. The pay rate for OR nurses ranges from $50 to $65 an hour depending on the demand and location.
3. Telemetry Nurse
Telemetry nurses are much sought after in cities such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. The assignments are relatively longer, usually spanning up to 26 weeks, with opportunities for extensions. Telemetry nurses can earn up to $80 per hour in some states.
4. ICU Nurse
ICU nurses are in demand all year round due to the critical care skills they possess. Assignment duration varies from 8 to 26 weeks and can be extended if the demand persists. The pay rate for ICU nurses ranges from $65 to $85 an hour in some locations.
Best Travel Nurse Assignments by Location
1. Hawaii
Hawaii is one of the most popular travel destinations for nurses, primarily because of its beautiful beaches and tropical climate. However, the state's location also provides unique healthcare jobs, requiring both permanent and travel nurses. Travel nurses in Hawaii can expect to earn an average of $2,000 per week, depending on their specialty, facility, and location. In addition to the scenic tropical vistas, nurses benefit from an unlimited supply of fresh, locally-sourced food and ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
2. California
California is another favorite destination for travel nurses. The state offers an abundance of assignments in various specialties. California travel nurses can earn anywhere between $2,000 to $3,000 per week, depending on their expertise, facility, and location. San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, and Orange County are among the top locations with the highest demand for nurses in almost all specialties.
3. New York
New York City is the most significant melting pot of all races, ethnicities, and cultural backgrounds in the US, making it attractive to many travel nurses. In addition, the city has some of the best hospitals, including the New York-Presbyterian Hospital and the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, among others. Travel nurses can earn an average of $1,500 to $2,500 a week, depending on their skills, experience, and location.
4. Florida
Florida is another state that welcomes travel nurses with warm weather and a diverse culture. The state has a large senior population that requires specialized care, which makes it an excellent location for travel nurses specializing in geriatric care. In addition, there is an abundance of travel assignments for nurses in various specialties. Travel nurses can earn anywhere between $1,500 to $2,000 per week, depending on their specialty, facility, and location.
Best Travel Nurse Assignments by Compensation
1. Texas
Texas is considered one of the most lucrative states for travel nursing, offering some of the highest-paying assignments in the country. Travel nurses can expect to earn as much as $1,500 to $2,500 per week, depending on their expertise, facility, and location. Houston, Dallas, and Austin are some of the most popular cities in Texas for travel nurses.
2. Alaska
Alaska is an excellent destination for travel nurses looking for high pay rates and adventure. Outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, snowboarding, and camping are endless in Alaska, making it an attractive location for nurses who love to explore the great outdoors. Travel nurses can earn anywhere from $2,000 to $3,000 per week in Alaska.
3. Arizona
Arizona is another attractive destination for travel nurses looking for high pay rates and warm weather. In addition, the state has several unique healthcare positions, including positions in the Indian Health Service. Travel nurses in Arizona can earn anywhere between $1,500 to $2,000 per week.
4. Georgia
Georgia is a popular destination for travel nurses due to its amazing food and different cultural influences. The state has many exceptional medical facilities requiring travel nurses in several specialties, particularly in Atlanta. The pay rates for travel nurses in Georgia range from $1,500 to $2,000 per week.
Conclusion
Finding the best travel nursing assignment can be a bit daunting. However, this guide provides a comprehensive list of some of the best travel nurse assignments categorized by location, specialty, and compensation. It is essential to conduct extensive research, talk to your recruiter, and consider your goals and priorities before embarking on your next travel nursing journey.
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Anthony Colón RN
Anthony serves as a trusted advisor to nurses looking to comparison-shop and make informed decisions regarding their first or next Travel Nurse contract. He's a former Travel Nurse with 25 years of RN experience. He will help you get a high pay Travel Nurse job that will allow you to provide safe and quality care. This blog and his Facebook group offers advice, answers & tips, PLUS Mentorship about all things regarding Travel Nursing. Thousands of Travel Nurses are in his FB group ready to help. To learn more about other aspects of Travel Nursing, be sure to visit his Facebook group called Travel Nursing - Answers, Advice and Tips PLUS Mentorship.