The cost to hire a traveling nurse varies based on several factors, including location, specialty, agency fees, and additional benefits. Here's a structured breakdown of the key components and estimated costs:
Agency Fees:
Agencies typically charge healthcare facilities?20–35% above the nurse’s hourly rate. For example, if a nurse earns?65–$70/hour to the agency.
Alternatively, some agencies charge a?flat weekly fee?(e.g.,?3,000).
Nurse Compensation:
Hourly Rate:?100+/hour, depending on specialty (e.g., ICU, ER) and demand.
Overtime/On-Call Pay: 1.5x–2x the regular rate for overtime.
Bonuses: Completion/extended assignment bonuses (e.g.,?5,000).
Housing:
Stipend:?1,500/week (nurse arranges housing).
Agency-Provided Housing:?2,500/month (varies by location).
Travel Costs:
One-time reimbursement for flights, mileage, or relocation:?2,000.
Benefits:
Health insurance, retirement contributions, and licensure/certification fees:?15–25% of total compensation.
Taxes and Insurance:
Payroll taxes, liability insurance, etc.:?10–15% of total costs.
Component | Weekly Cost | 13-Week Total |
---|---|---|
Hourly Rate (Agency Fee Included) | 105/hour (36 hours/week) | 3,780/week |
Housing | 1,500 | 19,500 |
Travel Reimbursement | One-time?2,000 | 2,000 |
Benefits/Taxes | 25–40% of wages | 15,120 |
Total Range:
Lower End: ~70/hour, low housing costs).
Higher End: ~$80,000+ (e.g., crisis rates, high-cost area).
Specialty: Critical care nurses cost more than general RNs.
Location: High-demand urban areas (e.g., NYC, SF) command higher rates.
Duration: Shorter assignments may have higher weekly rates.
Demand: Crisis situations (e.g., pandemics) can double rates temporarily.
Travel nurses typically cost facilities?2–3x more?than permanent staff nurses due to agency fees and stipends. However, they provide flexibility during staffing shortages.
For precise estimates, consult agencies like Aya Healthcare, AMN Healthcare, or Cross Country Nurses, as rates fluctuate with market conditions.