Embarking on a travel nursing career opens doors to new adventures, diverse healthcare settings, and enhanced professional growth. However, navigating the landscape of travel nursing agencies can feel overwhelming. With countless options available, how do you pinpoint the agencies that truly stand out in 2024? You’re in the right place. This comprehensive guide dives into the leading travel nursing agencies, meticulously researched and ranked to simplify your decision-making process and propel your travel nursing journey forward.
Whether you’re a seasoned travel nurse or just starting to explore this exciting career path, understanding which agencies are highly rated by fellow nurses and offer the best support is crucial. We’ve analyzed data from reputable platforms like Indeed and Glassdoor, where real travel nurses share their experiences, to bring you an unbiased overview of the top contenders.
In this article, we’ll unveil the best-rated travel nursing agencies of 2024, providing insights into what makes each agency unique. We’ll highlight agencies known for exceptional support, outstanding benefits, and vast job networks. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge to confidently choose a partner agency that aligns perfectly with your individual needs and career aspirations in the dynamic field of travel nursing.
Ready to discover the ideal agency to launch or elevate your travel nursing career? Let’s explore the top choices and help you take the next step towards your dream assignment.
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Table of Contents
- What Is The Best Travel Nursing Agency?
- Best Travel Nursing Agency For Support
- Best Travel Nursing Agency For Benefits
- Biggest Travel Nursing Agency
- 21 Best Travel Nursing Agencies Ranked
- 1. Axis Medical Staffing
- 2. Host Healthcare
- 3. Triage Staffing
- 4. Fusion Medical Staffing
- 5. Travel Nurses Inc.
- 6. Atlas MedStaff
- 7. Prime Time Healthcare
- 8. Medical Solutions
- 9. RNnetwork
- 10. OneStaff Medical
- 11. Aya Healthcare
- 12. Fastaff Travel Nursing
- 13. AMN Healthcare
- 14. Aureus Medical
- 15. Travel Nurse Across America
- 16. Krucial Staffing
- 17. NuWest
- 18. TotalMed Staffing
- 19. Maxim Healthcare Staffing
- 20. Trustaff
- 21. Nomad Health
- What Is The Highest-Paying Travel Nursing Agency?
- Start Working With The Best Travel Nursing Agencies
What Is The Best Travel Nursing Agency?
Determining the “best” travel nursing agency is subjective and varies based on individual priorities. However, when analyzing aggregated ratings from travel nurses on platforms like Indeed and Glassdoor, Axis Medical Staffing consistently emerges as a top contender for the title of best travel nursing agency. Their high ratings reflect strong satisfaction among nurses who have worked with them.
It’s essential to remember that the ideal agency for one travel nurse might not be the perfect fit for another. Personal preferences and priorities play a significant role. For instance, some nurses prioritize competitive pay packages above all else, while others value comprehensive benefits, robust support systems, or a strong sense of community fostered by the agency.
Therefore, while rankings provide a valuable starting point, consider your own needs and preferences when making your decision. Are you seeking an agency known for its personalized approach, or is access to a vast network of job opportunities your primary concern? Reflecting on these questions will guide you towards the agency that best aligns with your unique requirements.
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Best Travel Nursing Agency For Support
For travel nurses who prioritize readily available and comprehensive support, Host Healthcare stands out as a leading travel nursing agency. Host Healthcare is particularly recognized for its commitment to providing round-the-clock support, ensuring nurses have access to assistance whenever they need it.
From the moment you begin your journey with Host Healthcare, you gain access to a dedicated support system available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Whether you have a question about your assignment, need clarification on benefits, or encounter any unexpected issues, their support team is readily accessible via phone, text, or direct message. This constant availability makes Host Healthcare an excellent choice, especially for nurses who are new to travel nursing and may appreciate extra guidance and reassurance.
The assurance of immediate support can significantly ease the transitions inherent in travel nursing, providing peace of mind as you navigate new locations and healthcare environments. Beyond immediate support, Host Healthcare also offers assignments across all 50 states, providing extensive geographical flexibility. You can specify your desired contract location preferences, and their team will work diligently to match you with suitable placements, further simplifying the travel nursing experience.
Best Travel Nursing Agency For Benefits
If comprehensive and immediate benefits are a top priority in your search for a travel nursing agency, RNnetwork deserves close consideration. RNnetwork distinguishes itself by offering Day One benefits, meaning you become eligible for their extensive benefits package from the very first day of your contract. This immediate access to benefits provides security and peace of mind right from the start of your travel nursing assignment.
RNnetwork’s benefits package is remarkably comprehensive, encompassing various aspects of health and well-being. Key highlights of their benefits program include:
- Zero-Premium Health Insurance: RNnetwork fully covers health insurance premiums, extending coverage to dependents and life partners. This significantly reduces your out-of-pocket healthcare expenses.
- Prescription Pay: Enjoy no-deductible prescription medication coverage, making essential medications more affordable.
- Comprehensive Dental Plan: Benefit from 100% coverage for preventive dental services, including children’s orthodontics, promoting oral health and wellness.
- Vision Benefits: Access coverage for lenses, glasses, frames, and eye exams nationwide, ensuring your vision care needs are met.
- Continuing Education Opportunities: RNnetwork provides free, unlimited access to continuing education courses and license renewal assistance, supporting your professional development.
- Credentialing Assistance: Receive full support and substantial cost coverage for licensing and certifications, simplifying the often-complex credentialing process.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Access expert advice and resources for financial, mental, behavioral, and legal matters, promoting overall well-being.
- Life and AD&D Insurance: Benefit from $50,000 life and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance coverage without requiring enrollment in a medical plan, providing added security for you and your family.
- Teladoc Services: Utilize 24/7 physician consultation services via phone, offering convenient access to medical advice and care.
- Sanvello App Access: Enjoy free access to Sanvello, a mindfulness app designed to help manage stress, anxiety, and depression, supporting your mental health.
- Talkspace Access: Connect with licensed therapists online 24/7 through Talkspace, providing confidential mental health support whenever you need it.
This robust benefits package from RNnetwork demonstrates a strong commitment to the well-being of their travel nurses, making them a compelling choice for those who prioritize comprehensive coverage and support. Further details about RNnetwork and other compelling reasons to choose them are explored in the complete agency rankings below.
Biggest Travel Nursing Agency
When considering the sheer size and market presence in the travel nursing agency landscape, AMN Healthcare emerges as the largest. AMN Healthcare holds a significant market share in the industry, reflecting its extensive reach and influence. This size translates into numerous advantages for travel nurses who partner with them.
Working with the largest agency in the field provides access to an unparalleled volume and diversity of job opportunities. AMN Healthcare’s extensive network of healthcare facilities across the nation means you’ll have a wide array of assignments to choose from, increasing your chances of finding a placement that perfectly matches your skills and preferences. Beyond job availability, AMN Healthcare offers robust support systems and comprehensive benefits, leveraging its scale to provide resources that smaller agencies may find challenging to match. These benefits often include attractive perks such as subsidized or free housing options, 401(k) retirement plans, and life insurance coverage, enhancing the overall compensation package and security for travel nurses.
Established in 1985, AMN Healthcare boasts a long-standing history and a well-established reputation within the healthcare staffing industry. Their longevity and scale provide a sense of stability and reliability. Furthermore, AMN Healthcare has cultivated exclusive partnerships and contracts with numerous healthcare facilities. These exclusive agreements often grant their travel nurses access to job openings that may not be available through other agencies, expanding your options and potential assignments.
For travel nurses seeking the resources and opportunities that come with partnering with a large, established travel nursing agency, AMN Healthcare presents a strong option. Their extensive network, comprehensive benefits, and industry reputation offer a solid foundation for a successful travel nursing career.
21 Best Travel Nursing Agencies Ranked
Below is a detailed ranking of 21 of the best travel nursing agencies, compiled based on reviews and ratings from travel nurses on platforms like Indeed, Glassdoor, and Facebook. This ranking provides a comparative overview to help you identify agencies that are highly regarded within the travel nursing community.
1. Axis Medical Staffing
Axis Medical Staffing earns the top position as the best travel nursing agency for 2024, based on aggregated data from travel nurse ratings. This recognition reflects consistently high satisfaction levels among nurses who have partnered with Axis Medical Staffing.
Founded in 2004, Axis Medical Staffing has built a strong reputation for its commitment to both nurses and healthcare facilities. Key benefits and features that contribute to their high ranking include:
- Nationwide Assignment Opportunities: Access assignments in every state across the United States, providing geographical flexibility and diverse practice settings.
- Personalized Approach: Axis Medical Staffing emphasizes a “personal touch,” striving to build strong relationships with their nurses, offering a more individualized experience compared to larger, more impersonal agencies.
- Competitive Payment Structures: Known for offering attractive and transparent payment packages, ensuring nurses are fairly compensated for their skills and dedication.
While Axis Medical Staffing excels in many areas, it’s worth noting their healthcare benefits eligibility typically begins on the first day of the month following your hire date. While comprehensive, this waiting period might be a consideration for nurses who require immediate, Day One benefits. However, for those prioritizing agency reputation, personalized service, and diverse assignment locations, Axis Medical Staffing remains a top choice.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.96 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.9 (54 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 5 (84 Ratings) |
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2. Host Healthcare
As previously mentioned, Host Healthcare is highly regarded as a top travel nursing agency, particularly for its exceptional support system. Their commitment to 24/7 support sets them apart, ensuring nurses always have access to assistance and guidance.
Beyond their robust support, Host Healthcare offers a range of compelling benefits, including:
- Day One Medical Coverage: Access medical insurance from the first day of your assignment, providing immediate health security. Coverage extends for up to 30 days between assignments, offering continuous protection.
- 401(k) Matching Program: Benefit from a 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions, helping you build long-term financial security.
- Travel Reimbursements: Receive reimbursements for travel expenses incurred to reach your assignment location, reducing your financial burden.
- Dedicated Housing Support Team: Host Healthcare provides a specialized housing support team to assist with finding and securing suitable accommodation during your assignments, simplifying the logistics of travel nursing.
- Exclusive Contract Positions: Access a wide range of exclusive contract positions across the country, increasing your options and potential for desirable assignments.
Host Healthcare’s comprehensive support system, coupled with attractive benefits and extensive job opportunities, makes them an excellent choice for both new and experienced travel nurses. Their focus on nurse well-being and seamless travel experiences contributes to their consistently high ratings.
| 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 motto “real and ready,” emphasizing transparency and direct communication. This approach resonates strongly with travel nurses, as reflected in the positive reviews and ratings they receive.
Triage Staffing is particularly known for fostering a culture of open communication and building long-term relationships with their nurses. If you value regular interaction with your recruiter and prefer an agency that prioritizes clear and honest communication, Triage Staffing may be an excellent fit.
Key aspects of Triage Staffing’s approach include:
- Emphasis on Communication: Proactive and transparent communication is a core value, ensuring nurses are well-informed and supported throughout their assignments.
- Relationship-Focused Recruiters: Recruiters focus on building strong, lasting relationships with nurses, providing personalized support and understanding individual career goals.
- Fun and Casual Culture: Triage Staffing promotes a more relaxed and enjoyable work environment, which can be appealing to nurses who appreciate a less formal agency culture.
While Triage Staffing’s culture is a significant draw for many, it’s worth noting that they generally require travel nurses to have at least two years of experience. However, even if you don’t yet meet this experience threshold, Triage Staffing encourages nurses to connect early to begin building a relationship and prepare for future travel nursing 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 has garnered recognition for its workplace culture and commitment to social responsibility. Starting as a small business in 2009, Fusion Medical Staffing has experienced significant expansion and earned accolades for its positive work environment and ethical practices.
Reasons to consider Fusion Medical Staffing include:
- New Graduate Friendly with Mentorship: Uniquely, Fusion Medical Staffing welcomes new nursing graduates and provides a mentorship program to support their transition into travel nursing, offering valuable guidance and support.
- Social Responsibility Focus: The agency actively engages in social responsibility initiatives and volunteer work, reflecting a commitment to giving back to the community and aligning with nurses who value ethical employers.
- Inclusive and Diverse Culture: Fusion Medical Staffing fosters an inclusive workplace culture, demonstrated by their participation in LGBTQ+ pride events, disability fundraisers, and other initiatives promoting diversity and inclusion.
While Fusion Medical Staffing’s openness to new graduates is a significant advantage, their website may lack in-depth information for those new to travel nursing. Prospective travel nurses, particularly those just starting out, should proactively seek detailed information about contracts, support systems, and expectations to ensure Fusion Medical Staffing fully meets their needs and provides the necessary resources for a successful travel nursing experience.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.71 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.6 (243 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 4.8 (305 Ratings) |
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5. Travel Nurses Inc.
Travel Nurses Inc. (TNI) brings over 30 years of experience in the travel nursing agency industry, demonstrating stability and a long-term commitment to travel nurses. TNI is also distinguished by its 24/7 clinical support, ensuring nurses have access to expert assistance at any time during their assignments. They have consistently earned the ClearlyRated Best of Staffing award in 2021 and 2022, further solidifying their reputation for quality service.
Key benefits and features of Travel Nurses Inc. include:
- 24/7 Clinical Support: Provides round-the-clock access to clinical support professionals, offering immediate assistance and guidance for any clinical questions or challenges that may arise during assignments.
- Robust Job Board with Furnished Finder: Features a comprehensive job board and an integrated “Furnished Finder” tool, simplifying the process of finding both assignments and housing accommodations directly through their website.
- Day-One Healthcare Coverage: Offers healthcare coverage starting from the first day of your assignment, providing immediate access to health benefits.
- Contract Transparency: Prioritizes transparency in contract terms, with recruiters scheduling contract reviews to ensure nurses fully understand and agree with all aspects of their assignments before they begin.
While ratings for Travel Nurses Inc. on Indeed and Glassdoor are somewhat limited, the agency has garnered numerous positive reviews on platforms like Facebook and Google, indicating strong overall satisfaction among travel nurses who have worked with them. A point to note is that Travel Nurses Inc. typically requires one year of prior nursing experience to qualify for assignments.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.70 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.9 (20 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 4.5 (21 Ratings) |
6. Atlas MedStaff
Atlas MedStaff ranks highly among travel nursing agencies, with over three decades of experience in the industry. Atlas MedStaff distinguishes itself by emphasizing close collaboration with travel nurses and tailoring contracts to meet individual needs and preferences.
A unique aspect of Atlas MedStaff is their “Atlas Adventure” program, which is included with each contract. This program offers a personalized experience, ranging from recreational activities like skiing to attending professional sporting events, adding a unique personal touch to each assignment and demonstrating the agency’s commitment to nurse well-being beyond just work.
Additional benefits of working with Atlas MedStaff include:
- Comprehensive Insurance and Benefits: Offers a strong suite of insurance and benefits options, ensuring nurses have access to essential coverage and perks.
- Paid Private Housing Options: Provides options for paid private housing, offering comfort and convenience during assignments.
- Transparent and Long-Term Relationships: Focuses on building transparent and enduring relationships with travel nurses, fostering trust and long-term partnerships.
To maximize your experience with Atlas MedStaff, it’s crucial to establish a strong working relationship with your assigned recruiter. As with many travel nursing agencies, the recruiter-nurse dynamic significantly influences the overall satisfaction and success of your travel nursing journey.
| 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 connecting healthcare professionals with opportunities for over 15 years. For travel nurses who prioritize competitive compensation, Prime Time Healthcare may be a particularly appealing travel nursing agency.
Prime Time Healthcare is known for offering above-average travel nurse salaries and attractive secondary benefits. Key advantages include:
- Competitive Travel Nurse Salaries: Consistently offers strong pay rates for travel nurse assignments, appealing to nurses focused on maximizing earnings.
- Excellent Benefits Package: Provides a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and other valuable perks.
- Referral Bonuses: Offers referral bonuses to nurses who bring in new talent to the agency, providing opportunities for additional income.
- Paid Travel: Covers travel expenses to assignment locations, reducing out-of-pocket costs for travel nurses.
It’s worth noting that Prime Time Healthcare tends to work with experienced healthcare professionals and not exclusively with travel nurses. They also place nurses in per diem and permanent positions. For nurses seeking an agency exclusively focused on travel nursing, other options might be more specialized. However, for those open to diverse placement types and interested in potentially transitioning from travel nursing to permanent roles in the future, Prime Time Healthcare can be a beneficial long-term partner.
| 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 a travel nursing agency that places a strong emphasis on creating custom-tailored contracts for each travel nurse. This personalized approach aims to align assignments with the specific priorities and preferences of individual nurses.
Medical Solutions consultants engage in detailed conversations with nurses to understand their key priorities before proposing contracts. While contract terms can vary based on individual needs, typical benefits offered by Medical Solutions include:
- Excellent 401(k) Plan: Provides a strong 401(k) retirement savings plan, helping nurses plan for their financial future.
- Referral Bonuses: Offers bonuses for successful nurse referrals, rewarding nurses who contribute to their network.
- Loyalty Bonuses: Provides loyalty bonuses to recognize and reward nurses who continue to work with the agency over time, fostering long-term relationships.
- Comprehensive Health Benefits: Offers a range of health insurance options to meet diverse healthcare needs.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Provides access to an EAP for confidential support and resources related to personal and professional well-being.
While the flexibility and customization offered by Medical Solutions are highly advantageous for travel nurses who have a clear understanding of their needs and preferences, it may be less suitable for nurses who are new to travel nursing and unsure of what to prioritize. For those new to travel nursing, agencies with more standardized, well-established contract structures may provide a more straightforward and less potentially overwhelming experience initially.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.32 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.1 (351 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 4.5 (437 Ratings) |
9. RNnetwork
RNnetwork ranks as a strong contender among the best travel nursing agencies, offering a blend of personalized service and the resources of a large organization. RNnetwork is part of CHG Healthcare Services, a large healthcare staffing company, providing them with significant resources while maintaining a personal approach to nurse interactions.
Advantages of working with RNnetwork include:
- Travel Nursing Specialization: RNnetwork focuses exclusively on travel nursing, ensuring specialized expertise and resources tailored to this field.
- Competitive Compensation and Benefits: Offers attractive compensation packages and comprehensive benefits, appealing to nurses seeking financial stability and security.
- User-Friendly Job Search Platform: Provides an easy-to-navigate online platform for searching and applying for travel nursing assignments, streamlining the job-seeking process.
A key consideration with RNnetwork, as with many agencies, is that individual experiences can vary depending on the specific recruiter you are matched with. The quality of the recruiter-nurse relationship significantly impacts overall satisfaction. Therefore, while RNnetwork offers many advantages, ensuring a good recruiter match is crucial for a positive travel nursing 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 highlights experienced recruiters and a strong commitment to the nurses they work with as key differentiators. Their dedication to nurse support is underscored by their 24/7/365 availability, ensuring nurses can reach a representative at any time, day or night, throughout the year.
Choosing OneStaff Medical offers benefits such as:
- 24/7/365 Support Availability: Provides continuous access to agency representatives, ensuring immediate assistance for any issues or questions that may arise, regardless of the time.
- Career Goal and Travel Expectation Assistance: Offers support in aligning assignments with nurses’ career goals and travel preferences, aiming for placements that are professionally and personally fulfilling.
- Standard Benefits and Housing Options: Provides access to typical travel nurse benefits packages and assistance with finding suitable housing during assignments.
Like Triage Staffing, OneStaff Medical generally prefers travel nurses with at least two years of experience. Additionally, some nurses have reported instances of interdepartmental communication challenges within the agency. While these may be isolated cases, it is advisable to maintain clear communication and confirm important details with your recruiter and relevant departments to ensure a smooth assignment experience.
| 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 one of the most widely recognized and largest travel nursing agencies in the United States. Their size and established reputation translate into a vast selection of assignments and extensive resources for travel nurses.
Advantages of partnering with Aya Healthcare include:
- Extensive Assignment Selection: Offers a massive database of travel nursing assignments across the country, providing unparalleled choice and variety in job locations and settings.
- Day-One Benefits: Provides access to benefits from the first day of your assignment, offering immediate coverage and security.
- Credentialing and Paperwork Support: Offers dedicated support with credentialing and paperwork processes, simplifying administrative tasks for travel nurses.
- Scholarships and Education Assistance: Provides scholarships and educational resources to support the professional development and advancement of their travel nurses.
While Aya Healthcare’s size and resources are significant advantages, it can also mean a less personalized experience compared to smaller agencies. For nurses who prioritize a highly personal and individualized approach, the scale of Aya Healthcare might feel less intimate. However, for those seeking a wide range of options and robust resources from a well-established agency, Aya Healthcare remains a strong contender.
| 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, focusing on quickly filling critical needs in healthcare facilities facing emergencies like natural disasters or severe staffing shortages. This specialization positions Fastaff Travel Nursing as a unique option within the travel nursing agency landscape.
Fastaff Travel Nursing is known for offering some of the highest pay rates in the travel nursing industry. This higher compensation reflects the demanding nature of “Rapid Response” assignments, which often involve challenging situations and urgent needs.
Key characteristics of Fastaff Travel Nursing include:
- Highest Pay Rates: Typically offers top-tier compensation packages, attracting nurses seeking maximum earning potential.
- Rapid Response Specialization: Focuses on urgent, short-term assignments in crisis situations, requiring nurses to be adaptable and ready to deploy quickly, often within 48 hours of accepting a position.
- Assignments for Experienced Nurses: Assignments are generally better suited for experienced travel nurses who can handle high-pressure environments and complex situations.
- Professional Culture: Maintains a more professional, task-focused culture due to the urgent and critical nature of their placements, which may differ from agencies with a more casual or community-oriented approach.
While Fastaff Travel Nursing offers excellent financial incentives, the demanding and rapid-response nature of their assignments may not be ideal for all travel nurses, particularly those new to the field or seeking long-term, less intense 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 job opportunities and substantial resources. Their size and market leadership offer numerous benefits to travel nurses.
Beyond job availability, AMN Healthcare provides a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Free Private Housing: Offers fully paid, high-quality private housing for travel nurses, significantly reducing living expenses.
- Comprehensive Insurance Options: Provides medical, dental, and vision insurance plans to meet diverse healthcare needs.
- Retirement and Savings Plans: Offers 401(k) retirement plans and flexible spending accounts, supporting financial planning and savings.
- Life Insurance: Provides life insurance coverage, adding a layer of financial security for nurses and their families.
- Free Continuing Education: Offers free access to continuing education courses, supporting professional growth and license maintenance.
- Employee Discounts: Provides discounts on various products and services, including computers, cell phones, hotels, car rentals, and gym memberships, offering lifestyle and financial perks.
- Mobile App Convenience: Features the AMN Passport mobile app, allowing nurses to receive personalized job alerts, manage time and pay details, and organize credentials conveniently from their smartphones.
AMN Healthcare is particularly well-suited for experienced travel nurses who can leverage the agency’s extensive resources and job network. While potentially less personal than smaller agencies, AMN Healthcare’s robust benefits and technological tools make it a strong option for nurses seeking comprehensive support and diverse opportunities.
| 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 in the travel nursing agency sector, emphasizing a highly personalized approach to working with travel nurses. Their long history and focus on individual nurse needs contribute to their solid reputation.
Aureus Medical assigns a dedicated recruiter to each travel nurse, aiming to provide consistent and personalized support. While a dedicated recruiter is assigned, backup support is also available 24/7, ensuring continuous assistance even if your primary recruiter is unavailable.
Additional benefits of Aureus Medical include:
- Long-Standing Healthcare Facility Relationships: Boasts established relationships with healthcare facilities, potentially leading to access to a wider range of assignments and preferred placements.
- Dedicated Housing and Travel Department: Features a specialized department to handle housing and travel logistics, simplifying these aspects for travel nurses.
- Comprehensive Benefits Package: Offers a robust benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and other standard travel nurse perks.
Despite the dedicated recruiter model, Aureus Medical’s size can sometimes lead to interactions with multiple staff members across different departments. This can occasionally result in information gaps or the need to reiterate information if internal communication isn’t seamless. Travel nurses working with Aureus Medical should be proactive in ensuring clear communication and confirmation of details across all interactions.
| 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) has been in operation since 1999 and is frequently recognized as a top-tier travel nursing agency. TNAA is considered one of the most reputable and well-regarded agencies in the nation, reflecting their commitment to quality service and nurse satisfaction.
TNAA prides itself on strong relationships with client facilities and a transparent company culture. A key feature is their Assignment Benefit Summary, provided before each assignment, ensuring clarity and transparency regarding benefits and compensation details.
Notable benefits offered by TNAA include:
- “TNAA Boost Pay”: Offers a special higher pay rate for nurses who work extra shifts, providing opportunities to increase earnings.
- Pay Protection: Provides pay protection if a shift is cancelled, offering financial security and mitigating income loss due to unforeseen circumstances.
- Comprehensive Benefits Package: Includes standard travel nurse benefits, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and housing assistance.
- Transparent Company Culture: Emphasizes clear and open communication and ethical business practices, fostering trust with travel nurses.
While TNAA offers a robust job board, they do not typically publish pay rates on third-party job sites. This lack of upfront pay transparency can be a drawback for nurses who prioritize immediate access to salary information when evaluating job opportunities.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 3.96 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.2 (104 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 3.8 (152 Ratings) |
Compare Travel Nursing Placements & Salaries
16. Krucial Staffing
Krucial Staffing specializes in rapidly deploying healthcare professionals to facilities facing urgent staffing needs, often in high-risk or emergency situations. Similar to Fastaff, Krucial Staffing caters to facilities requiring immediate nurse staffing solutions.
Assignments with Krucial Staffing often involve high-acuity, emergency settings, requiring nurses to be ready to start working within 48 hours. These assignments are more demanding but are compensated accordingly, offering higher pay rates to reflect the challenging nature of the work.
Benefits of working with Krucial Staffing include:
- Day-One Benefits: Provides access to benefits from the first day of assignments, ensuring immediate coverage.
- Partnership Benefits: Offers additional benefits through Krucial Staffing’s partnerships with various organizations, expanding the overall benefits package.
- Excellent Housing Options: Assists in securing quality housing accommodations for travel nurses during their assignments.
- Higher Compensation: Offers competitive pay rates, especially for the high-demand, urgent-need assignments they specialize in.
Krucial Staffing is well-suited for travel nurses who are experienced, adaptable, and comfortable working in fast-paced, high-pressure environments. Their assignments are often shorter in duration and focused on crisis response, which may appeal to nurses seeking intense, impactful experiences.
| 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 the travel nursing agency industry for approximately 25 years, emphasizing quick deployment of travel nurses. They pride themselves on their ability to place nurses in assignments rapidly, often within 72 hours of acceptance.
NuWest is known for its smaller agency feel and more personalized approach compared to larger national agencies. They offer competitive pay rates and standard travel nurse benefits.
A key consideration with NuWest is their more geographically concentrated assignment availability. They primarily staff facilities in:
- Florida
- Montana
- California
For travel nurses specifically interested in assignments within these states and who value rapid placement, NuWest can be a good option. However, nurses seeking assignments in other regions may find their options limited with NuWest compared to agencies with broader national networks.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 3.90 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.0 (151 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 3.8 (139 Ratings) |
Compare Travel Placements & Salaries
18. TotalMed Staffing
TotalMed Staffing provides both travel nursing and local nursing job placement services, offering a range of options for nurses seeking varied career paths. Their broad network and online job board provide access to numerous assignments.
TotalMed Staffing aims to provide comprehensive support, offering:
- Day-One Benefits: Provides benefits eligibility from the first day of assignments, offering immediate coverage.
- Credentialing and Paperwork Assistance: Offers support with credentialing and administrative tasks, simplifying onboarding processes.
- Educational and Professional Support: Provides resources for professional development and ongoing support throughout assignments.
Some nurses have reported longer onboarding processes with TotalMed Staffing compared to other agencies. While this has not been a widespread issue, it’s worth being prepared for potentially extended onboarding timelines. However, for many nurses, the onboarding process is generally smooth.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 3.85 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.0 (251 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 3.7 (245 Ratings) |
Compare TotalMed Placements & Salaries
19. Maxim Healthcare Staffing
Maxim Healthcare Staffing has been in the healthcare staffing industry for over three decades, providing travel nursing, home healthcare, and wellness services. With over 65,000 healthcare professionals employed across the United States, Maxim Healthcare Staffing has a significant presence in the industry.
Maxim Healthcare Staffing offers competitive pay rates and placements in reputable healthcare facilities nationwide. Many of their travel nursing assignments are in high-stress, high-volume settings, which may appeal to experienced nurses seeking challenging and financially rewarding roles.
Considerations for Maxim Healthcare Staffing include:
- High-Stress Assignments: Many assignments are located in demanding, high-volume environments, which may be better suited for experienced nurses comfortable in such settings.
- Past Paycheck Issues: Historically, some nurses have reported delays or issues with paycheck processing, although these issues have typically been resolved. Nurses should maintain diligent record-keeping and communication regarding pay.
While Maxim Healthcare Staffing offers extensive opportunities and competitive pay, newer travel nurses might find the high-stress assignments and potential administrative challenges less appealing compared to agencies with a focus on more supportive environments or less complex placements.
| 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 hospital assignments for over two decades. Trustaff is particularly recognized for its strong communication and helpful staff, providing accessible support to travel nurses.
Trustaff maintains an active support line, ensuring nurses can readily reach assistance when needed. They offer standard travel nurse benefits, including:
- Health Insurance
- 401(k) Retirement Plan
- Start and Completion Bonuses
A potential drawback of Trustaff is the inconsistency in assignment lengths. While typical travel nurse contracts are around 13 weeks, assignments with Trustaff may vary, potentially being shorter or longer. For nurses seeking consistent, predictable contract durations, this variability might be a consideration.
| BetterNurse Agregate 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 stands out for its streamlined digital marketplace for finding and securing travel nursing assignments. Their technology-driven approach aims to simplify the job search and placement process. Nomad Health often offers competitive pay packages, frequently positioned on the higher end of the compensation spectrum.
Additional advantages of Nomad Health include:
- Weekly Pay: Provides weekly pay disbursement, offering frequent and consistent income flow.
- Licensure Reimbursement: Reimburses costs associated with nursing licensure, reducing out-of-pocket expenses for nurses.
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Benefits: Offers standard health insurance benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
Some travel nurses working with Nomad Health have reported challenges with communication. This can be a significant concern, especially for nurses new to travel nursing who rely on clear and responsive agency communication. Nomad Health is part of a larger platform, Nomad Health, which may contribute to a less personalized experience for some nurses. Reviews for Nomad Health are varied, with a mix of highly positive and negative experiences reported, suggesting that individual experiences may depend significantly on the recruiter or support team encountered.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 3.52 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 3.3 (56 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 3.6 (159 Ratings) |
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What Is The Highest-Paying Travel Nursing Agency?
It’s important to understand that there isn’t one single travel nursing agency that consistently pays the absolute most. Most reputable agencies, especially those listed above, offer competitive pay rates. The actual pay for a travel nursing assignment is influenced by several factors beyond the agency itself.
Key factors determining travel nurse pay include:
- Assignment Location: Geographical location significantly impacts pay rates. States with higher cost of living, such as California and New York, typically offer higher pay compared to states with lower cost of living, like Arkansas or Kentucky. However, it’s crucial to consider the cost of living when evaluating pay rates in different locations.
- Nursing Specialty: Specialized nursing roles, such as critical care (ICU), emergency room (ER), or operating room (OR) nurses, generally command higher pay rates than general medical-surgical (Med-Surg) roles due to the specialized skills and higher demand.
- Contract Type and Urgency: Crisis response or rapid deployment assignments, like those offered by Fastaff or Krucial Staffing, often offer premium pay rates due to the urgent need and demanding nature of these roles. Shorter-term, high-need contracts may also offer increased compensation.
To maximize your earning potential as a travel nurse, focus on these factors rather than solely seeking out a single “highest-paying” agency. Consider pursuing certifications or advanced degrees to specialize in high-demand nursing areas.
Regardless of the agency you choose, travel nursing salaries are generally significantly higher than staff registered nurse (RN) salaries. The average annual salary for a travel nurse is approximately $106,030, while staff RN salaries average around $82,750 per year. Travel nursing offers a clear path to enhanced earning potential in the nursing profession.
Start Working With The Best Travel Nursing Agencies
While Axis Medical Staffing is currently top-rated, the “best” travel nursing agency for you depends on your individual priorities and preferences. Each agency offers unique strengths and focuses, and the ideal choice aligns with your specific needs and career goals.
Take the time to explore multiple agencies, compare their offerings, and consider what matters most to you – whether it’s support, benefits, pay, location options, or agency culture. Don’t hesitate to reach out to multiple agencies, speak with recruiters, and ask detailed questions to make an informed decision.
By thoroughly researching and carefully selecting a travel nursing agency that fits your needs, you can set yourself up for a rewarding and successful travel nursing career. Start your journey today and explore the exciting opportunities that await!
If you’re ready to embark on your travel nursing adventure, begin comparing agencies and exploring assignments now to take the first step towards your travel nursing career.
