Since the beginning of the Covid-19 global pandemic, many hospitals have been severely understaffed and overwhelmed by the number of patients coming in. Despite this, hospitals are still rapidly hiring any help that they can get while paying generously. The demand for travel nurses has increased during this time to fill job gaps in hospitals. Here are five cities that offer a high travel nurse salary here in the United States: 

San Jose, California

Right in Silicon Valley, San Jose is the largest city in Northern California and also the highest paying city in the industry as of June 2021. California shut down twice during the pandemic, creating a great need for nurses. In this area, travel nurses can expect to make an hourly pay between $57 and $58 dollars per hour, with an average salary of a travel nurse being $120,339.

Oakland, California

Another California city to make this list is Oakland, located in the San Francisco Bay Area. This port city not only provides a breath-taking view of the Bay Bridge, but it also offers  an abundance of jobs in the medical field, including travel nursing jobs. With the average weekly pay being around $2,300, it is no wonder that many travel nurses are flocking to the area. Another benefit of working in Oakland is that the average annual salary is around $118,000. Currently, many hospitals such as Nomad Health and Stability Healthcare are hiring with a weekly pay of about $2300 to $2500. 

Jackson, WY

Near Yellowstone National Park in Teton county is Jackson, Wyoming. With salaries higher than the national average, Jackson’s highest salary is $114,435 for registered nurses with some experience. Emergency room travel nurses are also in demand here. It is no wonder that, with its beautiful scenery and good pay, Jackson attracts many nurses, beginning.

Wasilla, AK

Alaska is one of the last places where many people would want to work. But for travel nurses, it is a great place to start a career. For starters, the average monthly payment comes out to about $9,800 for registered nurses. With over 200 jobs currently advertised, there are lots of opportunities for nurses. As of June 2021, the average Wasilla travel nurse makes around $118,000 yearly, roughly 19% higher than the national average. 

Summersville, WV

Located in the heart of West Virginia, Summersville provides more than the beautiful waters of the rock Appalachian Mountain. The average weekly pay comes out to about $2300, which is good for experienced nurses. According to Zip Recruiter, the average hourly wage comes out to around $56 to $57, which is decent pay. Although there are few jobs available, the longer you have worked, the more you are able to earn in this beautiful town. It is definitely a place to watch with the growing opportunities that it has for travel nurses looking to move with a view. 

No matter where you go, the travel nurse industry is booming right during these tough times. Job opportunities are everywhere, but it is important to find the right company that will work hard to find you the right position. New Directions Staffing Services will help you find the right position that fits your needs and values your experience in the workforce. Click here to learn more about what positions are available to you.