Travel Nurse Pay Trends Q1 2025: Winners & Losers by Region

Travel nursing in the United States has always been dynamic, but Q1 2025 brought a wave of notable shifts that every healthcare professional, recruiter, and facility leader needs to understand. With demand for registered nurses at a record high, especially in specialized roles, travel nurse pay rates are reflecting not just the challenges but also the opportunities of the current market.

For anyone looking to maximize their earnings or optimize their staffing budget, understanding travel nurse pay trends for Q1 2025 is essential. Pay rates are not uniform across the country instead, they reveal clear “winners” and “losers” by region and even by state. Some areas are seeing travel nurse compensation climb to new heights, while others experience stabilization or even slight declines.

This detailed report will explore national averages, regional pay shifts, top- and bottom-performing states, and what’s driving these changes. We’ll cover how specialties, cost-of-living differences, and supply-demand imbalances affect travel nurse wages. Whether you’re an RN planning your next assignment or a health system watching your budget, this guide will give you the latest insights and practical tips for Q1 2025.

National Overview: Where Does Travel Nurse Pay Stand in Q1 2025?

Travel nurse pay in the United States continues to outpace permanent staff positions, especially for those willing to be flexible about location and specialty. As of Q1 2025, the average annual travel nurse salary hovers between $101,000 and $103,000, with weekly earnings for many assignments ranging from $2,000 to $2,600. Hourly, that equates to roughly $50–$68 per hour, a rate that can make travel nursing extremely attractive for both new and experienced RNs.

Key National Trends:

• 2025 pay rates are stable to slightly up compared to Q4 2024, thanks to ongoing nurse shortages and continued high demand in major metro and rural markets alike.
• Bonuses and stipends (for housing, meals, and incidentals) remain a significant portion of compensation, often adding $500–$1,000 per week to base pay.
• Specialty matters: Assignments in critical care, emergency, and labor & delivery consistently pay higher than med-surg or psych roles.
• Short-term contracts (4–8 weeks) with “crisis pay” can offer premium rates, but longer assignments (13 weeks) remain the standard.
• Highest national averages: Washington, D.C., New York, California, Massachusetts, and Alaska.
• Lowest national averages: Some parts of the South and Midwest, including West Virginia, Kansas, and Mississippi.

In summary, the travel nurse pay landscape in Q1 2025 is competitive, with above-average opportunities for those willing to move or specialize. However, the biggest story is the regional variation in pay.

Regional Wage Changes: Who’s Up, Who’s Down?

Travel nurse pay in Q1 2025 did not move evenly across the United States. Certain regions posted strong gains, while others experienced stagnation or slight declines. These changes are closely linked to regional demand, local cost-of-living, and fluctuations in hospital needs.

West: Winners Take the Lead

The Western U.S. led all regions in travel nurse pay growth in Q1 2025.

• Overall regional growth: +0.70% over Q4 2024
• Top performing states:
  • Hawaii: +1.86%
  • Oregon: +1.40%
  • California and Washington also posted strong numbers.

These states are benefiting from a mix of persistent staff shortages, high living costs (especially in Hawaii and California), and the willingness of health systems to pay more for experienced travelers.

Midwest: Solid Gains Amid Demand

The Midwest posted a respectable overall increase in travel nurse pay.

• Regional growth: +0.24%
• Notable leader:
  • Nebraska: +2.52% (the highest single-state gain nationally)
• Other stable markets: Illinois, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan.

Nebraska’s standout growth is attributed to a surge in demand at large academic hospitals and critical access facilities.

Northeast: Slight Decline, But Strong Base Pay

The Northeast, traditionally home to some of the highest travel nurse rates, saw a small dip:

• Regional change: -0.09%
• Notable state:
  • New Hampshire: +1.27%

Despite this slight dip, overall compensation in the Northeast remains among the highest in the nation.

South: Downward Pressure on Pay

The South was the only region with a noticeable drop in travel nurse compensation.

• Regional decline: -0.88%
• Notable drops:
  • Florida, South Carolina, Texas: experienced 1–3% decreases

Why the dip? Hospitals in the South have started filling more positions with permanent staff and international nurses, which has reduced the reliance on (and pay for) travel nurses. Additionally, a more stable supply of local nurses has contributed to this trend.

Winners & Losers State Analysis

Top Gainers (“Winners”)

Nebraska, Hawaii, and New Hampshire posted the most substantial gains in Q1 2025. Here’s why:

• Nebraska (+2.52%): The University of Nebraska Medical Center and major rural hospital networks needed experienced travelers, driving up wages for in-demand specialties.
• Hawaii (+1.86%): Ongoing shortages, high cost-of-living, and seasonal tourism peaks contributed to higher rates for travel RNs.
• New Hampshire (+1.27%): Hospital expansions and aging population increased local demand for RNs willing to travel.

Biggest Decliners (“Losers”)

States that saw the most significant declines or slowdowns in travel nurse pay include:

• Colorado (‑3.72%): A sudden influx of staff and travel nurses, coupled with a plateau in hospital census, led to excess supply and falling pay rates.
• Kansas, West Virginia, Florida, South Carolina: All posted 1–3% declines. These markets are adjusting after a boom in 2023–2024 and are now stabilizing as permanent hires rise.

Stable States

More than 30 states posted very minor changes (less than 1% up or down). These include:

• Texas
• Illinois
• New York
• Virginia
• Pennsylvania
• Georgia
• Ohio

For travel nurses, these “stable states” provide consistent, predictable pay—but generally lack the high-end spikes seen in the “winner” states.

Q1 2025 Travel Nurse Pay by State

State	Q1 2025 Avg. Weekly Pay	% Change vs. Q4 2024	Winner/Loser
Nebraska	$2,600	+2.52%	Winner
Hawaii	$3,200	+1.86%	Winner
New Hampshire	$2,550	+1.27%	Winner
Colorado	$2,250	-3.72%	Loser
Florida	$2,050	-2.10%	Loser
Texas	$2,350	-0.12%	Stable
California	$3,450	+0.75%	Winner
Illinois	$2,350	+0.05%	Stable
West Virginia	$1,950	-1.65%	Loser
New York	$3,000	+0.15%	Stable

Note: Data is a blend of leading job boards and travel nurse agency surveys, adjusted for specialties and market conditions.

Key Takeaways from State Trends

• Top-paying states are almost always those with higher cost-of-living and/or acute staffing shortages.
• Declines are temporary in many cases, with rate adjustments often rebounding as demand picks up in the next quarter.
• Savvy travel nurses monitor these trends and can maximize earnings by targeting states with recent pay increases or those known for high bonuses and stipends.

Highest-Paying Markets for Travel Nurses in Q1 2025

Not every travel nurse assignment is created equal. Some locations consistently offer higher pay, and in Q1 2025, several states and cities stood out for their premium wages.

Top-Paying States

The highest average weekly rates for travel nurses were recorded in:

• California: With its persistent nurse shortage, strict nurse-patient ratios, and high cost-of-living, California continues to lead, with average weekly pay often exceeding $3,400 for experienced RNs. Metropolitan areas such as San Francisco, San Jose, and Los Angeles frequently post the highest rates.
• Hawaii: Pay rates hover around $3,200 weekly, reflecting both the state’s chronic healthcare staffing needs and its elevated cost-of-living. Travel nurses willing to accept assignments on the islands often find lucrative packages, though competition for these posts is fierce.
• Alaska: Rural and remote healthcare needs push weekly rates above $2,900 in cities like Anchorage and Barrow. Harsh winter conditions can mean higher bonuses and incentives.
• Massachusetts and New York: These states remain top-tier for travel nurse compensation, with weekly averages ranging from $2,800 to $3,100.

Top-Paying Cities

Within these states, certain cities and regions are consistently at the top of the pay charts:

• Barrow, AK
• San Francisco, CA
• Berkeley, CA
• Boston, MA
• New York, NY
• Honolulu, HI
• Two Rivers, WI (Midwest surprise high demand in rural hospitals)

Urban centers generally pay more, but remote or underserved areas may offer similar or even better total compensation due to demand surges and bonus structures. Nurses who are open to less-popular locations, such as small towns or rural communities, may also benefit from reduced competition and higher net pay after expenses.

Specialty Pays: Where Skills Equal Premiums

Travel nurse pay isn’t just about geography it’s also about specialty. The more specialized your skills, the more you can command on the job market.

Highest-Paying Specialties

• Intensive Care Unit (ICU): ICU travel nurses earned between $2,700 and $3,600 per week depending on the region, with high demand across the country, particularly in large trauma centers.
• Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU): Pay ranged from $2,500 to $3,400 per week, with a premium for night shifts and weekend work.
• Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU): PACU nurses averaged $2,700 to $3,500 per week in Q1 2025, especially in teaching hospitals and surgical centers.
• Operating Room (OR) and Emergency Room (ER): Both specialties commanded pay at or above the national average, with flexible assignments in high-demand markets.
• Labor & Delivery, Oncology, Telemetry, and Step-Down Units: All saw increased pay due to ongoing staff shortages.

Specialty nurses who hold advanced certifications (like CCRN, CNOR, CEN, or NNP) are in even higher demand, often receiving sign-on bonuses or completion incentives on top of their weekly rate.

How Travel Nurse Compensation Breaks Down in 2025

Understanding how travel nurse pay is structured is essential for making informed career choices and maximizing your take-home income. Unlike staff nurses, travelers often receive several pay components:

Component	Typical Amount/Range	Description
Base hourly rate	$20–$40/hr	Taxable; forms the core of your weekly earnings
Housing stipend	$900–$1,800/month	Untaxed, varies by location and whether you find your own housing
Meals & incidentals	$250–$500/week	Untaxed, based on GSA rates for the assignment location
Completion bonus	$500–$2,000 per contract	Taxable; for finishing a contract or agreeing to extend
Travel reimbursement	$300–$600 per assignment	One-time payment for relocation expenses

Most travel nurses in Q1 2025 earn over 40% of their total income through tax-free stipends, making net pay more favorable especially in states with high tax rates. Those who secure affordable housing (or stay with family/friends) can save a significant portion of their stipend, increasing real take-home pay.

Cost-of-Living Impact: Where Your Pay Goes Further

A crucial but sometimes overlooked factor in travel nurse pay is the local cost-of-living (COL). Earning $3,000 per week in San Francisco is not the same as $2,400 per week in Omaha, Nebraska expenses can quickly erode the “headline” salary.

High Cost-of-Living States

• California, Hawaii, New York, Massachusetts, Alaska
• Housing, transportation, and groceries often cost 30–60% more than the national average.
• Travel nurses in these markets should negotiate higher stipends and be strategic about housing (shared rentals, agency-provided housing, or leveraging travel rewards programs).

Low Cost-of-Living States

• Texas, Alabama, Nebraska, Wisconsin, Ohio, Iowa
• Lower expenses on rent and everyday items mean weekly earnings go much further.
• These states are ideal for nurses looking to save aggressively, pay off debt, or build a financial cushion between assignments.

Strategic Tip

Maximize your income by targeting states or cities where the pay-to-expense ratio is highest. Midwest and some Southern states may not offer the absolute highest weekly rates, but lower COL means your effective income and your ability to save or invest can be far greater.

Demand Drivers & Market Conditions in Q1 2025

What’s pushing travel nurse pay up (or holding it steady) this year? Several macro and micro trends are shaping the market:

1. Ongoing RN Shortages

The U.S. is still facing a shortage of over 190,000 new registered nurses per year, driven by retirements, an aging population, and increased healthcare demand. This fundamental gap keeps travel nurse pay strong, particularly for specialties and in underserved areas.

2. Vacancy Rates in Hospitals

• Vacancy rates above 10%–15% are common in hospitals across the Midwest, West, and Northeast.
• Hospitals use travel nurses to fill critical gaps, especially for night shifts, specialty units, and rural or hard-to-staff facilities.

3. Regional “Hot Spots”

• California, Texas, Georgia, Arizona, Florida, New York, Illinois: These states report the highest ongoing demand for travel nurses, driving up both base rates and stipends.
• In the West and Midwest, seasonal factors (such as winter surges and flu outbreaks) increase pay in rural markets and university hospital systems.

4. International Recruitment and Local Staffing

Some regions, especially in the South, have ramped up efforts to hire permanent staff—including international nurses. This is reducing their reliance on travel nurses and, in turn, slightly lowering rates in those states.

5. Shifting Workforce Preferences

More nurses are seeking flexible schedules, remote opportunities, and contract work over traditional staff positions. This is reshaping the labor pool and giving travelers greater negotiating power especially for short-term, high-urgency assignments.

Key Data Points at a Glance

Market Factor	2025 Status
RN Shortage	194,500 new RNs needed/year
Avg. Weekly Pay	$2,000–$3,400 (varies by region and specialty)
Highest Demand	CA, NY, MA, TX, HI, AK
Top Specialties	ICU, ER, PACU, NICU, L&D
Top Cities	SF, NYC, Boston, Anchorage, Honolulu

Challenges & Strategic Considerations for Travel Nurses in Q1 2025

The robust travel nurse pay landscape in Q1 2025 is not without its hurdles. Alongside lucrative contracts, professionals face unique challenges and must be proactive to make the most of each assignment.

Navigating Boom-Bust Pay Cycles

• Seasonal Swings: Many regions, especially the Midwest and Northeast, see winter surges in demand due to flu season, while rates often stabilize or drop in the spring and summer.
• Rapid Rate Changes: In some “winner” states, a sudden influx of new contracts or a drop in local patient census can quickly lower pay for new assignments.
• Assignment Gaps: Travel nurses sometimes experience delays between contracts, which can disrupt cash flow. Building a financial buffer is crucial for bridging these periods.

Burnout, Mental Health & Work-Life Balance

• High Workloads: Hospitals may expect travelers to “hit the ground running” with minimal orientation, especially in crisis staffing situations.
• Emotional Toll: Regularly adjusting to new teams, workflows, and patient populations can lead to stress and professional fatigue.
• Self-Care: Many travelers prioritize mental health, peer support, and regular breaks to avoid burnout and sustain a rewarding travel career.

Credentialing & Compliance

• License Portability: While the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) allows easier movement between member states, not all high-paying regions participate. Nurses targeting states like California or New York must plan for extra licensing time and paperwork.
• Compliance: Staying current on certifications (BLS, ACLS, PALS, specialty credentials) and facility-specific onboarding requirements is essential for landing top assignments quickly.

Housing Search & Stipend Management

• Finding Affordable Housing: High cost-of-living markets present challenges. Many nurses join online travel nurse housing groups, use specialized rental platforms, or opt for agency-provided accommodations.
• Maximizing Stipends: Nurses who secure lower-cost or shared housing can often save a large portion of their stipends, turning a standard assignment into a high-savings opportunity.

Negotiating Contracts & Understanding Pay Packages

• Reading the Fine Print: It’s important to break down pay packages into taxable and non-taxable elements, clarify overtime policies, and watch for hidden costs (e.g., parking, scrubs, shift differentials).
• Advocacy: Experienced travelers often negotiate for higher stipends, sign-on bonuses, or completion incentives, especially in high-demand states and specialties.

Real Nurse Insights & Anecdotes: What Travelers Say

Understanding pay trends isn’t just about numbers it’s about lived experiences. In Q1 2025, travel nurses are sharing their stories, strategies, and lessons learned on forums, social media, and peer networks.

Earning Potential in Different Regions

• Midwest Advantage: “I took an ICU contract in rural Wisconsin for $2,700/week. The hospital had housing arrangements for travelers my monthly expenses were minimal, so I saved over $15,000 in three months.”
• California Calculations: “San Francisco pays $3,500+/week, but my studio apartment was $2,200/month. After taxes and rent, my take-home was similar to Texas or Nebraska, just with better weather.”
• Florida Frustration: “My pay dropped from $2,200/week to $2,050/week in Miami, and permanent staff are getting sign-on bonuses. It’s getting harder to justify the premium for traveling here unless you want the lifestyle.”

Making the Most of Assignments

• Networking: “I always ask local staff about the best neighborhoods, short-term rentals, and transportation. You’d be surprised how much you can save and how quickly you can feel at home.”
• Flexibility: “I watch the trends and jump on rising markets. I switched from the Northeast to Nebraska when I saw rates spike it paid off.”
• Specialty Switching: “Getting certified in ICU and PACU changed my career. The pay bump for specialties is worth every bit of study and prep.”

Navigating Burnout

• “I take every fourth contract off to travel for myself or be with family. It keeps me grounded and excited for the next assignment.”
• “Staying connected with other travelers helps there’s always someone who gets what you’re going through and can offer advice.”

Q2 2025 Forecast: What’s Next for Travel Nurse Pay?

As Q1 closes, industry leaders and experienced travelers are watching several indicators for how pay and market dynamics might evolve in Q2 2025.

Continued Regional Divergence

• High-demand states like California, Alaska, Nebraska, and Hawaii are expected to remain at the top for travel nurse pay, with urban and rural markets both posting strong rates.
• The South may see further stabilization or even slight declines in average weekly rates as more permanent positions are filled, particularly with new graduates and international nurses.

Seasonal Shifts

• Summer Lull: Many regions, especially in the North, see a drop in census during the summer. Rates may flatten or dip slightly as hospitals recalibrate staffing needs.
• Travel Hotspots: Tourist destinations (e.g., coastal states, national parks) may see a short-term boost as they prepare for summer surges in population and medical needs.

Specialty Premiums

• ICU, PACU, ER, and L&D nurses will remain in highest demand. Hospitals facing critical shortages are likely to offer higher completion bonuses and premium rates for experienced specialty RNs.
• Float pool and rapid response nurses may also see rising offers, especially in regions bracing for potential public health events or large-scale gatherings.

Cost-of-Living & Inflation

• Stipend Adjustments: As inflation continues, agencies may increase housing and incidentals stipends in high-COL markets, though base rates could remain stable.
• Savvy nurses will track COL data to ensure their compensation keeps up with real-world expenses.

Technology & Flexibility

• Remote Work & Telehealth: Some telehealth and case management roles are being offered to travel nurses, especially those with experience in care coordination. This opens new avenues for travel RNs who want more flexibility.

Tips for Travel Nurses: Maximizing Your Q1 & Q2 2025 Experience

1. Monitor Market Trends Weekly: Use job boards, recruiter updates, and travel nurse forums to track rising and falling rates by state and specialty.
2. Stay Credentialed: Keep all licenses, certifications, and background checks up to date for quicker onboarding and access to more contracts.
3. Negotiate Everything: Don’t accept the first offer ask about housing, travel, shift differentials, bonuses, and reimbursement for continuing education.
4. Calculate Real Net Pay: Always factor in taxes, housing, transportation, and cost-of-living to see where you’ll keep the most money.
5. Choose High-ROI Locations: Don’t chase the highest headline pay—focus on markets where your stipends and salary go further.
6. Prioritize Self-Care: Schedule downtime between contracts, find a peer support network, and don’t ignore signs of burnout.
7. Get Specialty Certified: The more skills you bring, the more options and better pay you’ll have.
8. Be Flexible: Short-term contracts and willingness to travel to less popular locations can dramatically boost your earning potential.
9. Use Tech Wisely: Apps for housing, finance tracking, and nurse communities make life on the road easier and help avoid costly mistakes.

Must Read:

• Medical Groups Budget 4% Nurse Pay Rises in 2025: Why It Matters
• Are U.S Nurse Wage Increases Keeping Up With Inflation?
• ER vs. ICU vs. Telehealth RN: Which Specialty Earns the Most in 2025?

FAQs:

Conclusion:

The first quarter of 2025 has proven one thing: travel nursing is more than a job—it’s a career strategy. Pay rates are higher than ever in some states, but the market remains dynamic, with clear winners and losers across regions. Nurses who pay attention to regional trends, take advantage of specialty certifications, and think beyond base salary will always have the edge.

The ongoing nurse shortage, shifting regional demand, and rising cost-of-living all play major roles in shaping the pay landscape. The “winners” are those who stay proactive—tracking market changes, building their credentials, and negotiating strong contracts.

Whether you’re new to travel nursing or a seasoned pro, Q1 2025’s trends show that flexibility, strategic planning, and self-care are essential for maximizing both earnings and job satisfaction. The next quarter promises new opportunities and new challenges for travel nurses ready to seize them.