Have you ever wondered which states pay their travelers the most? While some travel nurses may choose their assignment locations based on bucket list destinations or areas close to home, others prioritize high pay. Top paying states can vary by specialty, as some specialties earn more than others. However, we have compiled a list of the top paying states based on several specialties. This way, you can be sure that no matter which state you choose, you’ll receive top dollar. Take a look at the list below for our top states, along with the average salaries for travel nurses.
California
It’s probably no surprise that California ranks as one of the top paying states for travelers. On average, travel nurses in California can make $131,878 annually, or $56.52 per hour. If you're considering traveling to California, make sure to carefully review the license and certification requirements, as they are different from those of other states and are currently pending Compact State Licensure. California is also known for its established nurse-to-patient ratio laws, which allow travel nurses to properly care for their patients without feeling overwhelmed.
Top Paying Cities in California:
- Stockton: average salary of $3,239 per week
- Vallejo: average salary of $2,787 per week
- Sacramento: average salary of $2,672 per week
- San Francisco: average salary of $2,655 per week
- Fresno: average salary of $2,582 per week
Things To Do:
- Visit Yosemite National Park: Explore the stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and giant sequoias.
- Go to Disneyland: Enjoy the magic of Disneyland in Anaheim.
- Drive along the Pacific Coast Highway: Take in the breathtaking coastal views.
- Explore San Francisco: See the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Fisherman’s Wharf.
- Wine Tasting in Napa Valley: Experience some of the best wines in the country.
Oregon
With an average annual income of $116,716, or $50.02 per hour, Oregon is roughly 16.5 percent higher than the national average, making it one of our top paying states for travelers. Not only does Oregon have gorgeous mountain and ocean views, but their demand for travelers is increasing every year. They also have over 60 hospitals, with some that rank nationally for specific specialties! It's important to note that Oregon does not participate in the compact license program, so you will need an Oregon license to travel and work there.
Top Paying Cities in Oregon:
- Springfield: average salary of $2,465 per week
- Hermiston: average salary of $2,393 per week
- Bend: average salary of $2,274 per week
- Grants Pass: average salary of $2,167 per week
- Salem: average salary of $2,162 per week
Things to Do:
- Hike in Crater Lake National Park: Witness the deepest lake in the U.S.
- Visit Portland: Enjoy the city’s food scene, parks, and quirky culture.
- Explore Cannon Beach: Marvel at the iconic Haystack Rock.
- Tour the Columbia River Gorge: See stunning waterfalls and scenic views.
- Experience the Oregon Shakespeare Festival: Enjoy world-class theater in Ashland.
Illinois
Currently, Illinois is projected to experience a shortage of over 15,000 registered nurses by 2025. Due to this significant shortage, traveling nurses are offered higher compensations, especially in smaller cities outside of Chicago. The current average annual income for travelers in Illinois is $120,494, or $51.64 per hour. Similar to California, Illinois is in the process of obtaining Compact State Licensure. If you are considering traveling to Illinois for your next assignment, it is important to regularly check the NLC website for the latest updates on their legislation.
Top Pay Cities in Illinois:
- Urbana: average salary of $2,385 per week
- Springfield: average salary of $2,362 per week
- Rock Island: average salary of $2,329 per week
- Carbondale: average salary of $2,223 per week
- Chicago: average salary of $2,222 per week
Things To Do:
- Visit the Art Institute of Chicago: Explore an extensive art collection.
- Tour Millennium Park: See the famous Cloud Gate (The Bean) sculpture.
- Explore the Magnificent Mile: Shop and dine in Chicago’s famous district.
- Cruise on Lake Michigan: Take a boat tour for views of Chicago’s skyline.
- Visit Lincoln Park Zoo: Enjoy a free and historic zoo in the heart of Chicago.
Alaska
Alaska may be the highest paying state for travel nurses due to its remote location and high demand for skilled nurses. Currently, travel nurses can earn an average annual income of $135,574, or $58.10 per hour. If traveling to Alaska, be aware that the cost of living is higher than the national average because of its remote location and limited land for development. Goods such as groceries, clothing, and gasoline need to be shipped or flown in, resulting in higher prices. However, if you’re an adventure enthusiast, Alaska is home to several National Parks and Preserves, specifically Mount Denali, which is the tallest mountain in the US! Also keep in mind, like Oregon, Alaska also do not have any action on obtaining compact licensure, so you will need to get a single state license in order to work there.
Top Paying Cities in Alaska:
- Sitka: average salary of $2,865 per week
- Nome: average salary of $2,767 per week
- Juneau: average salary of $2,620 per week
- Fairbanks: average salary of $2,524 per week
- Anchorage: average salary of $2,422 per week
Things To Do:
- See Denali National Park: Spot wildlife and see North America’s highest peak.
- Cruise the Inside Passage: View glaciers, fjords, and marine wildlife.
- Explore Anchorage: Visit the Anchorage Museum and the Alaska Native Heritage Center.
- Witness the Northern Lights: Best viewed in Fairbanks during winter.
- Visit Kenai Fjords National Park: See glaciers and abundant wildlife.
New York
New York’s salaries are comparable to California’s for travelers with an average annual income of $131,085, or $56.18 per hour. With a grand total of 215 hospitals throughout the state, you can be sure there is no shortage of assignments in New York. If planning on taking an assignment there, check their license requirements as they are currently undergoing Compact State Legislation.
Top Paying Cities in New York:
- Brooklyn: average salary of $2,746 per week
- Bronx: average salary of $2,585 per week
- Utica: average salary of $2,564 per week
- Rochester: average salary of $2,510 per week
- New York: average salary of $2,487 per week
Things To Do:
- Explore New York City: Visit Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty.
- Tour Niagara Falls: Experience the stunning waterfalls on the New York-Canada border.
- Visit the Adirondack Mountains: Hike, camp, and enjoy outdoor activities.
- Explore the Finger Lakes: Tour wineries and enjoy lake activities.
- See the Hudson Valley: Visit charming towns and historic sites along the Hudson River.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts is one of our older states in America with tons of history throughout. Their salaries are about in the middle range of our list with an average annual income of $123,215, or $52.81 per hour. Massachusetts is home to several well-known hospitals such as Boston Children’s Hospital, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and New England Baptist Hospital, which means there are plenty of assignments available for travelers. Like New York, Massachusetts is also pending Compact State Legislation.
Top Paying Cities in Massachusetts:
- Tewksbury: average salary of $3,093 per week
- South Weymouth: average salary of $2,570 per week
- Hyannis: average salary of $2,541 per week
- Boston: average salary of $2,413 per week
- Pittsfield: average salary of $2,391 per week
Things To Do:
- Walk the Freedom Trail: Explore historic sites in Boston.
- Visit Cape Cod: Enjoy beaches, lighthouses, and charming towns.
- Tour Harvard University: Take a guided tour of this prestigious university in Cambridge.
- Explore Martha’s Vineyard: Enjoy the island’s beaches, shops, and scenic views.
- Visit Salem: Learn about the infamous Salem witch trials and explore historic sites.
New Jersey
New Jersey is among the top ten states in need for travel nurses. Due to high demand, the salary for travel nurses is above average with an annual income of $125,698, or $53.87 per hour. New Jersey is a Compact License state, making it easier for travel nurses to work there. Despite being one of the smaller states, you can easily visit surrounding states on your days off for even more things to do during your assignment!
Top Paying Cities in New Jersey:
- New Brunswick: average salary of $2,803 per week
- Township of Monroe: average salary of $2,784 per week
- Camden: average salary of $2,718 per week
- Neptune City: average salary of $2,549 per week
- Red Bank: average salary of $2,546 per week
Things To Do:
- Visit Atlantic City: Enjoy the boardwalk, casinos, and beaches.
- Explore Liberty State Park: Get great views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
- Tour Princeton University: Walk around the beautiful Ivy League campus.
- Hike in the Delaware Water Gap: Enjoy scenic trails and river activities.
- Visit Six Flags Great Adventure: Experience thrilling rides and attractions.
Wisconsin
Even prior to the pandemic, Wisconsin faced nursing shortages, and the situation has only worsened over time. Nowadays, the numbers have only gotten worse over the years. Several hospitals across the state, particularly in smaller towns like Wausau, Waukesha, and Rhinelander, are in dire need of nurses. Wisconsin is one of our top traveled states, which means we have numerous opportunities for nurses in all specialties. The current average income for Wisconsin travelers is $119,899 annually, or $51.38 per hour. Wisconsin is the perfect state for first time travelers due to not only being a compact state, but also because of the smaller hospitals which will offer a better patient ratio and experience.
Top Paying Cities in Wisconsin:
- Green Bay: average salary of $2,423 per week
- Madison: average salary of $2,391 per week
- Wausau: average salary of $2,280 per week
- Waukesha: average salary of $2,250 per week
- Mauston: average salary of $2,196 per week
Things To Do:
- Visit the Wisconsin Dells: Enjoy water parks, boat tours, and scenic beauty.
- Explore Milwaukee: Tour the Harley-Davidson Museum and enjoy the city’s beer scene.
- Hike in Devil’s Lake State Park: See beautiful landscapes and rock formations.
- Tour the House on the Rock: Experience this unique and eclectic attraction.
- Visit Lambeau Field: Take a tour of the Green Bay Packers’ iconic stadium.
Arizona
The 65 and older population being the fastest-growing demographic in the state, travel nurses are in high demand to support this uptick in patients who require more medical attention. Arizona is also a top choice for travelers due to its year-round gorgeous weather conditions. Travel nurses can expect to make an average of $124,260 annually, or $53.25 per hour. Arizona is also a part of the Compact State Legislation, which makes it even easier for travelers to find assignments there.
Top Paying Cities in Arizona:
- Mesa: average salary of $2,390 per week
- Sun City: average salary of $2,383 per week
- Fort Defiance: average salary of $2,357 per week
- Glendale: average salary of $2,344 per week
- Gilbert: average salary of $2,320 per week
Things To Do:
- Visit the Grand Canyon: Explore one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World with breathtaking views, hiking trails, and rafting on the Colorado River.
- Tour Sedona: Enjoy the stunning red rock formations, hiking, and vibrant arts community.
- Explore Antelope Canyon: Take a guided tour through the famous slot canyon known for its stunning light beams and unique rock formations.
- Visit Monument Valley: Experience the iconic landscapes and cultural heritage of the Navajo Nation.
- See Saguaro National Park: Discover the unique desert environment and iconic saguaro cacti near Tucson.
Maine
Known for their lobster, history, and stunning ocean views, Maine has a lot to offer for travelers. The demand for travelers is constantly increasing as hospitals are still struggling to find help. While their average income may be lower than others on our list at $106,199 annually, or $45.51 per hour, the number of available assignments is comparable to larger states. Maine is also a part of the Compact State Legislation making it easier for travelers to work there.
Top Paying Cities in Maine:
- Biddeford: average salary of $2,378 per week
- Rockport: average salary of $2,370 per week
- Portland: average salary of $2,270 per week
- Bangor: average salary of $2,247 per week
- Calais: average salary of $2,147 per week
Things To Do:
- Visit Acadia National Park: Hike, bike, and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery.
- Explore Portland: Enjoy the city’s food scene, waterfront, and historic Old Port.
- Tour the Maine Maritime Museum: Learn about the state’s maritime history in Bath.
- Visit Bar Harbor: Enjoy the charming town and gateway to Acadia National Park.
- See the lighthouses: Tour iconic lighthouses along the Maine coast.
In conclusion, when deciding on your next travel nursing assignment, it's essential to consider not only the potential earnings but also the unique experiences each state has to offer. Whether you're drawn to the bustling cities of California, the natural beauty of Oregon, the small-town life in Wisconsin, or the adventure of Alaska, there are abundant possibilities for growth, adventure, and financial reward as a travel nurse. Keep in mind the licensing requirements and the cost of living in each state to make an informed decision that aligns with your career and lifestyle goals.