Is Travel Nursing Worth It in 2026?
For most nurses with 2+ years of experience, travel nursing is absolutely worth it in 2026 — you can earn 20–50% more than staff positions, explore new cities, and build a diverse clinical skill set. The key trade-offs are time away from home, less job stability, and managing your own benefits.
Last updated 2026-02-04
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The Financial Case: How Much More Will You Earn?
Let's compare real numbers. A staff ICU nurse in Dallas earns approximately $78,000/year. A travel ICU nurse taking 48 weeks of assignments earns approximately $115,000–$145,000/year (with $50,000+ of that tax-free). Even accounting for self-paid health insurance and no employer 401k match, the net financial gain is typically $30,000–$60,000/year.
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Learn about CatSol →Honest Pros and Cons
Here's what experienced travelers say.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 20–50% higher pay than staff positions | Time away from family and friends |
| Tax-free stipends boost take-home pay | Less job stability (13-week contracts) |
| Explore new cities and regions | Must manage your own benefits (health, retirement) |
| Build diverse clinical experience | Adjusting to new EMR systems every 13 weeks |
| Flexibility — take time off between contracts | Potentially feeling like an outsider at facilities |
| Escape workplace politics | Housing logistics and moving frequently |
| Career growth and networking | Licensing in non-compact states takes time |
Who Thrives as a Travel Nurse?
Travel nursing works best for: nurses who are independent and adaptable, nurses with strong clinical skills who can orient quickly, people without young children or with a supportive partner, nurses who enjoy new experiences and are comfortable with change, and those who are financially disciplined (managing your own taxes, insurance, retirement).
CatSol is Joint Commission certified — the gold standard in healthcare staffing. Your compliance and safety come first.
Learn about CatSol →Search Thousands of Travel Healthcare Jobs
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Who Should Think Twice?
It might not be the right time if: you have less than 1–2 years of experience, you're not comfortable being the new person every 13 weeks, you have family obligations that require you to be home, you need predictable income and stability above all else, or you struggle with loneliness and isolation.
The 2026 Market Reality
The post-COVID correction is over. Pay has stabilized at rates 20–30% above pre-pandemic levels. Demand is strong across most specialties, driven by an aging population and continued nursing shortages. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects RN demand growing 6% through 2032. If you've been considering travel nursing, 2026 is a solid time to start.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do travel nursing with a family?
Will travel nursing hurt my career long-term?
What if I don't like it?
Travel nursing is worth it for most nurses with 2+ years of experience. You'll earn 20–50% more, gain diverse clinical experience, and explore new places. The trade-offs are manageable with preparation. The 2026 market is strong with stable demand and pay above pre-pandemic levels.
See What You Could Earn
Compare your current staff salary with travel nurse packages in any state.
See What You Could Earn