Embarking on a travel nursing career opens doors to new adventures and professional growth. However, the sheer number of Travel Nurse Agencies can be overwhelming. Selecting the right agency is crucial for a smooth and rewarding experience. This guide dives into the top-rated travel nurse agencies of 2024, based on authentic feedback from travel nurses themselves.
We’ve compiled data from platforms like Indeed and Glassdoor to bring you a curated list of agencies recognized for their excellence. These ratings reflect real experiences, offering genuine insights into what each agency provides.
In this article, you will discover:
- Ranked list of top travel nurse agencies.
- Key features and benefits of each agency.
- Recommendations to help you pinpoint agencies with outstanding support, benefits, and more.
By the end, you’ll be equipped to make an informed decision and confidently choose the right travel nursing agency that aligns with your professional aspirations and personal needs.
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Navigating the World of Travel Nurse Agencies
Choosing the “best” travel nursing agency is subjective and depends on individual priorities. While Axis Medical Staffing emerges as a top contender based on overall ratings from Indeed and Glassdoor, remember that the ideal agency is one that resonates with your specific needs.
For instance, a nurse prioritizing robust benefits might lean towards agencies known for comprehensive packages, while another seeking close recruiter interaction might prefer agencies lauded for their personalized support.
>> Compare High-Paying Travel Nurse Assignments Today
Agencies That Prioritize Nurse Support
Host Healthcare stands out as the premier travel nursing agency for nurses who value readily available support. They offer 24/7 accessibility to support, ensuring you’re never alone in navigating your assignments.
Whether you’re a travel nursing novice or a seasoned expert, having constant support is invaluable. Host Healthcare’s commitment means you can reach out via call, text, or direct message anytime with questions or concerns. This is particularly beneficial for those new to travel nursing who might appreciate extra guidance.
Host Healthcare also provides access to assignments across all 50 states, giving you broad geographical flexibility. Simply indicate your desired location, and they will assist in finding suitable placements.
Top Agencies for Comprehensive Benefits
For travel nurses prioritizing exceptional benefits, RNNetwork is a leading travel nurse agency to consider. They distinguish themselves by offering Day One benefits, ensuring you’re covered from the moment your contract begins.
Their extensive benefits package includes:
- Zero-Premium Health Insurance: RNnetwork fully covers health insurance premiums, extending coverage to dependents and life partners.
- Prescription Pay: Medications are available with no deductible.
- Dental Plan: Preventive services are 100% covered, and children’s orthodontics are also included.
- Vision Benefits: Coverage spans lenses, glasses, frames, and eye exams nationwide.
- Continuing Education: Access to free, unlimited continuing education courses and license renewal assistance.
- Credentialing Assistance: Comprehensive support and significant financial coverage for licenses and certifications.
- Employee Assistance Program: Professional guidance for financial, mental, behavioral, and legal matters.
- Life and AD&D Insurance: $50,000 coverage provided without mandatory medical plan enrollment.
- Teladoc: 24/7 access to physician consultations via phone.
- Sanvello: Complimentary access to a mindfulness app for stress, anxiety, and depression management.
- Talkspace: Round-the-clock access to licensed therapists online.
RNNetwork’s commitment to benefits is just one aspect of their appeal, which we’ll further explore in the complete agency rankings.
Leading the Market: The Largest Travel Nurse Agency
AMN Healthcare is recognized as the largest travel nursing agency, holding a significant market share in the industry.
Choosing to work with a large agency like AMN Healthcare offers several advantages, notably a vast array of job opportunities across diverse locations and specialties. Furthermore, they provide robust support systems and extensive benefits, including complimentary housing, 401(k) plans, and life insurance options.
AMN Healthcare’s long-standing presence since 1985 underscores their established reputation and industry expertise. Their exclusive partnerships with healthcare facilities further expand job access for their travel nurses.
For nurses seeking a large, resourceful travel nursing agency, AMN Healthcare is a strong contender.
21 Top Travel Nurse Agencies: Ranked and Reviewed
Below is our 2024 ranking of the best travel nursing agencies, compiled from authentic reviews on Indeed and Glassdoor. Where data was limited on these platforms, we incorporated Facebook reviews to provide a comprehensive assessment.
1. Axis Medical Staffing
Axis Medical Staffing earns the top spot as the best travel nursing agency for 2024, based on aggregated ratings from travel nurses.
Established in 2004, Axis Medical Staffing is celebrated for:
- Assignment availability in all 50 states.
- A personalized approach that sets them apart.
- Competitive compensation structures.
While highly rated, it’s worth noting that healthcare benefits become available the first of the month following your hire date, meaning a potential month-long wait. If immediate benefits are a priority, agencies with Day One benefits might be more suitable.
However, for nurses prioritizing adventure and personalized service, Axis Medical Staffing is an excellent agency to consider.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.96 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.9 (54 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 5 (84 Ratings) |
Explore Axis’s High-Paying Jobs & Compare
2. Host Healthcare
As previously mentioned, Host Healthcare is a leading travel nursing agency known for its exceptional support. Their 24/7 availability ensures nurses have constant access to assistance. Recruiters are dedicated to matching nurses with their ideal assignments.
Beyond support, Host Healthcare offers compelling benefits:
- Day One medical coverage, extending for 30 days between assignments.
- 401(k) matching programs.
- Travel expense reimbursements.
- A dedicated housing support team.
Host Healthcare’s comprehensive support structure makes it an excellent choice for both new and experienced travel nurses seeking reliable assistance throughout their assignments.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.86 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.7 (214 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 4.9 (860 Ratings) |
3. Triage Staffing
Triage Staffing operates under the principle of being “real and ready.” Employee reviews consistently highlight their clear and open communication style.
If you value building strong, ongoing relationships with your recruiter and prefer frequent communication, Triage Staffing might be an ideal travel nursing agency for you.
Keep in mind their culture is described as fun and casual, which may not suit every nurse’s preference. Also, they typically require two years of nursing experience. However, even without meeting the experience criteria immediately, Triage Staffing encourages nurses to connect and start building a relationship for future opportunities.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.77 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.7 (236 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 4.8 (645 Ratings) |
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4. Fusion Medical Staffing
Fusion Medical Staffing is a rapidly growing travel nursing agency that began as a small business in 2009. They have received accolades for their rapid growth and positive workplace environment.
Key highlights of Fusion Medical Staffing include:
- New graduate nurse programs and mentorship opportunities.
- Commitment to social responsibility and volunteerism.
- Inclusive culture, demonstrated through participation in LGBTQ+ pride events and disability fundraisers.
While they welcome new graduates, their website may lack detailed information for those new to travel nursing. Prospective nurses should proactively ask detailed questions to ensure Fusion Medical Staffing aligns with their specific needs.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.71 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.6 (243 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 4.8 (305 Ratings) |
View & Compare Fusion Placements
5. Travel Nurses Inc.
Travel Nurses Inc. (TNI) brings over 30 years of experience to the travel nurse agency landscape, offering 24/7 clinical support. They have earned ClearlyRated Best of Staffing awards in 2021 and 2022.
TNI provides a user-friendly job board and a unique “Furnished Finder” tool for integrated housing solutions directly on their website.
They prioritize contract transparency, with recruiters conducting thorough contract reviews before each assignment to ensure nurse satisfaction. Day One healthcare coverage is also a significant benefit.
Although Indeed and Glassdoor ratings are less extensive, TNI boasts numerous positive reviews on Facebook and Google which offer valuable perspectives. One year of prior nursing experience is required to work with TNI.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.70 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.9 (20 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 4.5 (21 Ratings) |
6. Atlas MedStaff
Atlas MedStaff is a well-established travel nursing agency with over three decades in the industry. They emphasize close partnerships with travel nurses, tailoring contracts to individual preferences.
A distinctive feature of Atlas MedStaff is the “Atlas Adventure” included in each contract, offering unique experiences such as ski trips or attending professional sports events.
Additional benefits of working with Atlas MedStaff include:
- Comprehensive insurance and benefits packages.
- Options for paid private housing.
- Transparent and enduring recruiter-nurse relationships.
Building a strong rapport with your recruiter is key to maximizing your experience with Atlas MedStaff, as with many travel nurse agencies.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.51 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.2 (49 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 4.7 (82 Ratings) |
7. Prime Time Healthcare
Prime Time Healthcare has been a recruiter of healthcare professionals for over 15 years.
For nurses prioritizing high compensation, Prime Time Healthcare is a noteworthy travel nurse agency. They are known for offering above-average travel nurse salaries and attractive secondary benefits, including:
- Excellent benefits offerings.
- Referral bonuses.
- Paid travel expenses.
Prime Time Healthcare tends to cater to experienced healthcare professionals. They also fill positions beyond travel nursing, including per diem nursing and permanent roles.
If you prefer an agency exclusively focused on travel nursing, alternative options are available. However, for those interested in long-term career growth beyond travel nursing, Prime Time Healthcare could be a suitable match.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.41 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.2 (235 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 4.7 (168 Ratings) |
8. Medical Solutions
Medical Solutions is committed to creating customized contracts for their travel nurses.
They prioritize understanding each nurse’s specific needs and preferences before finalizing any assignment. A consultant will discuss your priorities to tailor your contract accordingly.
While contract specifics vary, common benefits include:
- Strong 401(k) plans.
- Referral and loyalty bonuses.
- Comprehensive health benefits.
- Employee assistance programs.
The flexibility and customization offered by Medical Solutions can be advantageous for nurses with clear preferences. However, the array of options might feel overwhelming for those new to travel nursing and unsure of their priorities. Newer travel nurses might find more standardized contracts from other agencies easier to navigate initially.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.32 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.1 (351 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 4.5 (437 Ratings) |
9. RNnetwork
RNnetwork ranks highly as a leading travel nurse agency, balancing a personal touch with the resources of a large organization. They are part of CHG Healthcare Services, a major staffing company.
Benefits of choosing RNnetwork include:
- Exclusive focus on travel nursing.
- Competitive compensation and benefits packages.
- User-friendly job search platform.
Keep in mind that recruiter experience can influence your overall satisfaction. A less effective recruiter might lead to a less satisfactory experience.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.45 |
|---|---|
| Facebook Average Rating | 4.5 (178 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 4.4 (159 Ratings) |
10. OneStaff Medical
OneStaff Medical is known for experienced recruiters and a strong commitment to their nurses.
They offer 24/7/365 representative availability, ensuring immediate assistance whenever needed. They also emphasize career goal support and strive to meet individual travel expectations.
Like most top travel nurse agencies, they provide standard benefits and various housing options. However, OneStaff Medical typically seeks nurses with at least two years of experience.
Some nurses have reported occasional inter-departmental communication issues. While these may be isolated incidents, it’s worth being aware of potential coordination challenges.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.24 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.0 (100 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 4.5 (92 Ratings) |
11. Aya Healthcare
Aya Healthcare is a prominent and widely recognized travel nursing agency in the United States.
Their size and reputation enable them to offer a vast selection of assignments.
Advantages of working with Aya Healthcare include:
- Day One benefits.
- Credentialing and paperwork assistance.
- Scholarships and educational support.
Aya Healthcare is a solid choice for nurses seeking an agency with substantial resources. However, their large scale might mean a less personalized experience compared to smaller agencies. If a highly personal recruiter relationship is a priority, consider this trade-off.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.20 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.2 (749 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 4.2 (1892 Ratings) |
12. Fastaff Travel Nursing
Fastaff Travel Nursing specializes in “Rapid Response” healthcare staffing, placing nurses in critical need situations during crises like natural disasters or severe staffing shortages.
They offer some of the highest pay rates in the travel nurse agency sector, reflecting the demanding nature of their “Rapid Response” assignments.
For nurses prioritizing maximum income, Fastaff Travel Nursing could be appealing. However, be prepared for assignments that often require immediate start dates, sometimes within 48 hours of acceptance.
These demanding roles are typically better suited for experienced nurses. The agency culture tends to be more professional and less informal due to the urgent nature of their placements.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.15 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.1 (137 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 4.2 (134 Ratings) |
13. AMN Healthcare
As previously noted, AMN Healthcare is the largest travel nursing agency, providing access to an extensive network of exclusive jobs and resources.
Beyond size, AMN Healthcare offers numerous benefits:
- Complimentary, high-quality private housing.
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
- 401(k) and flexible spending accounts.
- Life insurance coverage.
- Free continuing education courses.
- Discounts on various services and products, including computers, cell phones, hotels, car rentals, and gym memberships.
Their mobile app, AMN Passport, is particularly useful, offering personalized job alerts, pay details, and credential management.
AMN Healthcare is generally well-suited for travel nurses with some experience. However, its robust resources and comprehensive benefits also make it a viable option for nurses at different career stages.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.12 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 3.9 (427 Ratings) |
| Facebook Average Rating | 4.7 (158 Ratings) |
14. Aureus Medical
Aureus Medical has been operating for over 35 years, emphasizing a highly personalized approach to travel nursing.
Each nurse is assigned a dedicated recruiter, and 24/7 support is available even if your primary recruiter is unavailable.
Aureus Medical also boasts:
- Long-term relationships with numerous healthcare facilities.
- A dedicated housing and travel department.
- Solid benefits packages.
Despite the dedicated recruiter model, Aureus Medical is a large agency. You might interact with multiple staff members across different departments, potentially requiring repeated information sharing if internal communication lags.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.06 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 3.9 (496 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 4.23 (330 Ratings) |
15. Travel Nurse Across America
Travel Nurse Across America (TNAA), established in 1999, is consistently recognized among the top travel nurse agencies and is considered highly reputable.
TNAA prides itself on strong relationships with client facilities and a transparent company culture.
A key benefit is their detailed Assignment Benefit Summary provided before each assignment.
“TNAA Boost Pay” offers an enhanced rate for working extra shifts, providing opportunities to increase earnings. They also offer standard benefits and pay protection in case of shift cancellations.
While TNAA has a substantial job board, pay rates are not always publicly listed on third-party sites, which can be a drawback when quickly assessing compensation.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 3.96 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.2 (104 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 3.8 (152 Ratings) |
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16. Krucial Staffing
Krucial Staffing specializes in rapidly staffing healthcare facilities facing urgent nurse shortages.
Assignments are often in high-pressure, emergency settings, requiring quick start dates, typically within 48 hours.
While demanding, these assignments are also financially rewarding. Nurses also receive:
- Day One benefits.
- Additional benefits through Krucial partnerships.
- Quality housing options.
Krucial Staffing is a good fit for nurses who thrive in challenging environments and seek diverse, shorter-term assignments.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 3.96 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.4 (215 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 3.5 (205 Ratings) |
17. NuWest
NuWest has been in operation for approximately 25 years, emphasizing swift travel nurse deployment, often within 72 hours.
They maintain a smaller, more personalized feel and offer competitive pay and standard travel nurse agency benefits.
A limitation is their smaller pool of assignments compared to larger agencies. Their placements are primarily concentrated in:
- Florida
- Montana
- California
However, for travel nurses aiming to work in these states with a preference for rapid deployment, NuWest is a viable option.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 3.90 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.0 (151 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 3.8 (139 Ratings) |
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18. TotalMed Staffing
TotalMed Staffing provides travel nurses to healthcare facilities and also assists nurses in finding local positions.
TotalMed Staffing offers a comprehensive approach, with a large network and a robust online job board providing numerous assignment choices.
They also provide:
- Day One benefits.
- Credentialing and paperwork support.
- Educational and professional development resources.
Some nurses have reported lengthy onboarding processes. However, this is not a widespread issue and many nurses experience smooth onboarding.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 3.85 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.0 (251 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 3.7 (245 Ratings) |
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19. Maxim Healthcare Staffing
Maxim Healthcare Staffing has over three decades of experience, staffing not only travel nurses but also home healthcare and wellness services. They employ over 65,000 healthcare professionals nationwide.
Maxim offers competitive pay rates and placements in leading healthcare facilities.
Similar to some other travel nurse agencies listed, many Maxim assignments are in high-demand, high-stress environments. While financially attractive, these roles might not be ideal for less experienced nurses.
Historically, Maxim has had some delays in resolving paycheck issues, although these are typically resolved. Potential paycheck discrepancies should be considered.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 3.63 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 3.5 (5,970 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 3.8 (4,739 Ratings) |
20. Trustaff
Trustaff has been connecting travel nurses with hospitals for over two decades.
Trustaff is noted for its strong communication and supportive staff. They maintain an active support line for readily available assistance.
Standard benefits are offered, including:
- Health insurance.
- 401(k) plans.
- Sign-on and completion bonuses.
Assignment lengths with Trustaff can be variable. While typical travel nurse contracts are 13 weeks, Trustaff assignments might be shorter or longer. Nurses needing schedule consistency should consider this variability.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 3.52 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 3.7 (370 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 3.3 (297 Ratings) |
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21. Nomad Health
Nomad Health boasts a leading digital platform for finding travel nursing assignments, known for its streamlined marketplace. Their pay packages are generally competitive.
Additional benefits include:
- Weekly pay cycles.
- License reimbursement.
- Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
However, some nurses have reported communication challenges with Nomad Health. This can be particularly problematic for those new to travel nursing.
As part of the larger Nomad Health platform, individual nurses might experience less personalized attention. Ratings for Nomad Health are polarized, with both high and low scores, suggesting recruiter experience can significantly vary.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 3.52 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 3.3 (56 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 3.6 (159 Ratings) |
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Demystifying Pay: Which Travel Nursing Agency Pays the Most?
No single travel nursing agency consistently offers the highest pay. The agencies listed here all provide competitive rates.
Maximizing your earning potential depends more on factors like assignment location and contract type.
States like California and New York typically offer higher pay for travel nurses compared to states like Arkansas or Kentucky, although the cost of living also varies accordingly.
Furthermore, specialized nursing roles generally command higher pay than general RN positions. Pursuing certifications or advanced degrees can enhance your earning capacity.
Regardless of the chosen agency, travel nursing salaries generally exceed those of permanent registered nurses. The average annual salary for a travel nurse is approximately $106,030, significantly higher than the average resident RN salary of $82,750 per year.
Taking the Next Step with Top Travel Nurse Agencies
While Axis Medical Staffing is currently ranked as the top travel nursing agency, the best choice for you depends on your individual priorities and preferences.
Explore multiple agencies and compare their offerings before making a final decision. This thorough approach ensures you secure the most suitable contract and agency to support your travel nursing journey.
If you’re ready to begin your travel nursing career, start exploring opportunities today!
