Travel Nurse Pay Packages 2026
Full Breakdown by State, Agency, and Specialty
The travel nursing market in 2026 continues to evolve with competitive compensation packages designed to attract experienced healthcare professionals. This comprehensive guide provides detailed insights into weekly pay structures across different states, staffing agencies, and medical specialties. Travel nurses are experiencing favorable market conditions with premium pay rates, housing stipends, and comprehensive benefits packages. Whether you’re considering ICU positions on the West Coast, emergency department roles in the Northeast, or specialty assignments in the Midwest, understanding the pay landscape is crucial for making informed career decisions. The data presented reflects current market rates and includes base pay, shift differentials, and specialty bonuses typical in 2026.
Weekly Pay by State
The geographic location of travel nursing assignments significantly impacts compensation. States with higher costs of living and increased demand for healthcare professionals typically offer more competitive weekly rates.
| State | Average Weekly Base Pay | Housing Stipend (Weekly) | Total Weekly Compensation | Assignment Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $2,850 | $750 | $3,600 | Very High |
| Texas | $2,400 | $525 | $2,925 | High |
| New York | $2,950 | $800 | $3,750 | Very High |
| Florida | $2,550 | $600 | $3,150 | High |
| Massachusetts | $2,800 | $725 | $3,525 | High |
| Pennsylvania | $2,450 | $575 | $3,025 | Moderate |
| Illinois | $2,600 | $625 | $3,225 | High |
| Arizona | $2,500 | $550 | $3,050 | Moderate to High |
| Washington | $2,700 | $675 | $3,375 | High |
| Colorado | $2,550 | $600 | $3,150 | Moderate |
Weekly Pay by Staffing Agency
Different travel nursing agencies offer varying compensation packages based on their client relationships, contract volumes, and operational models. The following table represents typical weekly pay ranges for standard ICU positions.
| Staffing Agency | Typical Weekly Base | Benefits Package Value | Shift Differential Premium | Overall Competitiveness |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TravelMed Staffing Solutions | $2,650 | $400/week | 15-20% | Excellent |
| HealthCare Connect | $2,500 | $350/week |