Embarking on a travel nursing career opens up exciting opportunities to explore new locations and advance your professional skills. Choosing the right travel nursing agency is a crucial first step in this journey. With a vast number of agencies available, it can feel overwhelming to identify the best fit for your needs. To simplify your search, we’ve compiled a data-driven ranking of the top Travel Nursing Agencies for 2023/2024, leveraging authentic reviews from travel nurses on platforms like Indeed and Glassdoor.
This guide presents a curated list of highly-rated travel nursing agencies, providing insights into each company. For those eager to delve deeper, we’ve included links to comprehensive reviews.
We’ll also highlight agencies excelling in specific areas like benefits and support, based on our research.
By the end of this article, you’ll be well-equipped to understand what these leading companies offer and confidently select the ideal travel nursing agency to propel your career forward.
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Table of Contents
What Defines the Best Travel Nursing Agency?
Axis Medical Staffing stands out as the premier travel nursing agency, earning the highest ratings from travel nurses on Indeed and Glassdoor. This distinction is based on aggregated reviews, reflecting genuine experiences within the travel nursing community.
However, it’s essential to recognize that the “best” agency is subjective and varies depending on individual priorities.
For instance, a nurse prioritizing a strong recruiter relationship might favor one agency, while another focused on compensation and benefits might prefer a different one.
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Top Travel Nursing Agency for Unparalleled Support
Host Healthcare is recognized as the leading travel nursing agency for nurses seeking exceptional support. From the moment you partner with them, you gain access to round-the-clock support, 24/7.
Whether you have a question or encounter a concern, Host Healthcare ensures prompt assistance via call, text, or direct message. This level of accessibility makes them an excellent choice, particularly for nurses new to travel assignments who may appreciate extra guidance and readily available support.
Regardless of your experience level, having reliable and quick access to your agency is invaluable.
Furthermore, Host Healthcare provides opportunities across all 50 states. Simply specify your preferred location, and their team will assist in securing suitable placements.
Best Travel Nursing Agency for Comprehensive Benefits Packages
For travel nurses prioritizing robust benefits, RNNetwork is a standout option. They offer “Day One Benefits,” meaning you’re eligible from the very first day of your assignment.
Their extensive benefits package includes:
- Zero-Premium Health Insurance: Fully company-paid health coverage, extending to dependents and life partners.
- Prescription Pay Program: Medications are available with no deductible costs.
- Comprehensive Dental Plan: 100% preventative service coverage, including orthodontic coverage for children.
- Vision Care Benefits: Covers lenses, glasses, frames, and eye exams nationwide.
- Continuing Education Opportunities: Free, unlimited access to courses and license renewal assistance.
- Professional Credentialing Support: Full support and coverage for licensing and certification expenses.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Access to expert consultation for financial, mental health, behavioral, and legal matters.
- Life and AD&D Insurance: $50,000 coverage, independent of medical plan enrollment.
- Teladoc Services: 24/7 access to physician consultations via phone.
- Sanvello App Access: Free access to a mindfulness app designed to alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Talkspace Platform: 24/7 online access to licensed therapists.
Further details on why RNNetwork is highly recommended are available in our detailed agency rankings below.
Largest Travel Nursing Agency in the Nation
AMN Healthcare holds the position as the largest travel nursing agency in the industry. Reports indicate they command nearly 20% of the market share, underscoring their significant presence.
Choosing to work with the largest agency offers numerous advantages, notably a wider selection and greater diversity of job opportunities. Additionally, AMN Healthcare provides comprehensive support and benefits, encompassing free housing options, 401(k) plans, and life insurance coverage.
Established in 1985, AMN Healthcare boasts a long-standing and reputable history. Their established network includes exclusive agreements with healthcare facilities, expanding job access for their nurses.
AMN Healthcare is a strong option for travel nurses seeking a large agency with extensive resources and a broad reach.
Top 21 Travel Nursing Agencies: Ranked and Reviewed
Below is our ranking of the best travel nursing agencies, based on aggregated reviews from Indeed and Glassdoor. Where data was limited on these platforms, we incorporated Facebook reviews to provide a more comprehensive assessment.
1. Axis Medical Staffing
Axis Medical Staffing has earned the top spot as the best travel nursing agency for 2023, based on our analysis of travel nurse ratings.
Established in 2004, Axis Medical Staffing offers compelling benefits, including:
- Assignment availability in every state across the US.
- A uniquely “personal touch” in recruiter relationships, distinguishing them from larger agencies.
- Competitive and transparent pay structures.
While highly rated, it’s worth noting that healthcare benefits become available the first of the month following your hire date, meaning there’s a potential waiting period. If immediate day-one benefits are a priority, other agencies may be more suitable.
However, for nurses prioritizing adventure and personalized support, Axis Medical Staffing is a highly recommended agency.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.96 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.9 (54 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 5 (84 Ratings) |
Explore Axis’s High-Paying Opportunities & Compare
2. Host Healthcare
As previously mentioned, Host Healthcare excels in providing exceptional support for travel nurses. Their 24/7 support system ensures you can reach out anytime with questions, and their recruiters are dedicated to finding your ideal assignments.
Beyond support, Host Healthcare offers a range of attractive benefits. They provide access to thousands of exclusive contract positions nationwide. Additional benefits include:
- Day-one medical coverage that extends for up to 30 days between assignments, offering continuous protection.
- 401(k) matching contributions to help you save for retirement.
- Travel expense reimbursements to ease the financial burden of assignments.
- A dedicated housing support team to assist with finding comfortable and convenient accommodations.
Host Healthcare’s comprehensive support system makes it an outstanding choice for nurses new to travel nursing. However, their robust offerings are equally beneficial for experienced travel nurses seeking a reliable and supportive agency.
| 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,” emphasizing transparency and clear communication. Employee reviews consistently highlight their positive experiences with Triage.
If building strong, long-term relationships and maintaining regular communication with your recruiter are important to you, Triage Staffing might be an excellent match.
Keep in mind they foster a more casual and fun company culture, which may not appeal to everyone.
Also, Triage Staffing typically requires two years of nursing experience. However, even without meeting this requirement yet, they encourage nurses to connect and build a relationship while gaining experience.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.77 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.7 (236 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 4.8 (645 Ratings) |
Explore Triage Travel Nursing Jobs & Compare
4. Fusion Medical Staffing
Fusion Medical Staffing is another highly-rated agency on our list.
Starting as a small business in 2009, Fusion Medical Staffing has experienced significant growth. They’ve received accolades for being a fast-growing company with a positive workplace environment.
Reasons to consider Fusion Medical Staffing include:
- They welcome new graduate nurses and offer a mentorship program to support their transition into travel nursing.
- A strong emphasis on social responsibility and community involvement through volunteering initiatives.
- An inclusive company culture, demonstrated by participation in LGBTQ+ pride events and disability fundraisers.
While Fusion Medical Staffing hires new graduates, their website may lack detailed information for those new to travel nursing. It’s important to ask thorough questions to ensure Fusion aligns with your specific needs as a new travel nurse.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.71 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.6 (243 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 4.8 (305 Ratings) |
View & Compare Fusion Travel Nursing Placements
5. Travel Nurses Inc.
Travel Nurses Inc. (TNI) has been operating for over 30 years and provides 24/7 clinical support to their travel nurses. They have also been recognized with the ClearlyRated Best of Staffing award in 2021 and 2022, highlighting their commitment to quality.
TNI features a comprehensive job board and even integrates a “Furnished Finder” tool directly on their website, simplifying housing arrangements.
They offer day-one healthcare coverage and prioritize contract transparency. Recruiters schedule contract reviews before each assignment to ensure your needs are met and understood.
Although Indeed and Glassdoor ratings are limited, TNI has garnered numerous positive reviews on Facebook and Google which are valuable resources for further research.
A prerequisite for working with TNI is one year of prior nursing experience.
| 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 as a leading travel nursing agency with over three decades of experience. They prioritize close collaboration with travel nurses, customizing contracts to align with individual preferences.
Notably, each Atlas MedStaff contract includes an “Atlas Adventure,” a unique experience ranging from skiing trips to attending professional sports games, adding a personal touch to assignments.
Additional benefits of choosing Atlas MedStaff include:
- Excellent health insurance and benefits packages.
- Paid private housing options to ensure comfort and privacy.
- Transparent and enduring recruiter-nurse relationships.
Building and maintaining a strong relationship with your recruiter is key when working with Atlas MedStaff, as it can significantly impact your overall experience, as with many top-tier travel nursing 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 connecting healthcare professionals with assignments for over 15 years.
If competitive salary is a primary factor in your agency selection, Prime Time Healthcare is worth considering. Their travel nurse salaries tend to be above average, complemented by attractive secondary perks like:
- A comprehensive range of benefits.
- Referral bonuses for bringing in other healthcare professionals.
- Paid travel expenses to assignment locations.
Prime Time Healthcare often works with highly skilled healthcare professionals.
It’s important to note that Prime Time Healthcare also places nurses in per diem nursing and permanent positions, in addition to travel nursing.
If you prefer an agency solely focused on travel nursing, you might explore other options. However, if you’re open to building a long-term relationship with an agency and potentially transitioning out of travel nursing in the future, Prime Time Healthcare could be a good fit.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.41 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.2 (235 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 4.7 (168 Ratings) |
8. Medical Solutions
Medical Solutions emphasizes personalized contracts tailored to each travel nurse’s specific requirements.
Before finalizing a contract, a consultant from Medical Solutions will discuss your priorities and preferences to ensure alignment.
While contract specifics vary based on individual nurse needs, generally you can expect:
- An excellent 401(k) retirement savings plan.
- Referral bonuses for bringing in new talent.
- Loyalty bonuses rewarding long-term partnerships.
- Comprehensive health benefits coverage.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for personal and professional support.
While this contract flexibility and customization are beneficial for travel nurses with well-defined needs, the array of options might be overwhelming for those newer to travel nursing or unsure of their priorities.
If you’re new to travel nursing, starting with an agency offering more standardized, proven contract structures might be a more comfortable initial approach.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.32 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.1 (351 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 4.5 (437 Ratings) |
9. RNnetwork
RNnetwork is ranked among the top travel nursing agencies, providing a balance of personalized service with the resources of a large organization.
As a subsidiary of CHG Healthcare Services, a major staffing company, RNnetwork offers the best of both worlds. They maintain a friendly, personal approach while leveraging the stability and resources of a larger parent company.
Additional benefits of working with RNnetwork include:
- Exclusive focus on travel nursing, ensuring specialized expertise.
- Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits packages.
- A user-friendly online job search platform.
It’s important to be aware that individual experiences can vary depending on the specific recruiter assigned to you. A less-than-ideal recruiter match could potentially 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 its experienced recruiters and dedication to its travel nurses.
Choosing OneStaff Medical means you have access to a representative 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. This ensures prompt support and problem-solving whenever needed.
They also prioritize communication regarding career goals and strive to meet your travel assignment expectations.
Like most agencies on this list, OneStaff Medical offers standard benefits and various housing options.
However, OneStaff Medical typically works with travel nurses who have at least two years of experience.
Some reports indicate potential interdepartmental communication issues within the agency. While these might be isolated incidents, it’s worth keeping in mind.
| 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 leading and well-recognized travel nursing agency in the United States.
Their size and strong reputation translate to a vast selection of assignments to choose from, providing ample options for travel nurses.
Other advantages of working with Aya Healthcare include:
- Day-one benefits eligibility.
- Support with credentialing and paperwork processes.
- Scholarship programs and educational assistance to support professional development.
If you value working with a large agency with extensive resources, Aya Healthcare is definitely worth considering.
However, their size may mean that building a deeply personal relationship with your recruiter, as you might find at smaller agencies, could be less achievable.
If a highly personalized, “personal touch” experience is a priority, Aya Healthcare may not be the ideal choice.
| 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. They focus on placing nurses in facilities facing urgent needs during crises such as natural disasters or severe staffing shortages.
Fastaff Travel Nursing is known for offering some of the highest pay rates in travel nursing. This is largely due to the demanding nature of their “Rapid Response” assignments.
If maximizing salary is your top priority, Fastaff could be a suitable agency.
However, be prepared to start assignments quickly, often within 48 hours of accepting a position.
These more challenging, urgent assignments are generally better suited for experienced nurses. Fastaff’s culture tends to be more professional and less informal due to the critical 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 mentioned earlier, AMN Healthcare is the largest travel nursing agency, providing access to an extensive pool of exclusive job opportunities and resources.
AMN Healthcare also offers a robust benefits package, including:
- Free and high-quality private housing options.
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- 401(k) and flexible spending accounts (FSAs).
- Life insurance coverage.
- Free continuing education courses for professional development.
- Discounts on various services and products such as computers, cell phones, hotels, car rentals, and gym memberships.
A standout feature is their mobile app, AMN Passport. This app allows you to receive personalized job alerts, review pay and time details, and manage your credentials efficiently.
AMN Healthcare is likely best suited for travel nurses with some prior experience. However, if you seek an agency with extensive resources and comprehensive benefits, AMN is a strong contender.
| 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 in the travel nursing industry for over 35 years, emphasizing a personalized approach to travel nursing.
Each nurse is assigned a dedicated recruiter at Aureus Medical. Even if your recruiter is unavailable, 24/7 support is always accessible.
The agency also boasts:
- Long-established relationships with healthcare facilities, providing access to a wide range of assignments.
- A dedicated housing and travel department to streamline logistics.
- Comprehensive benefits packages.
One point to consider is that Aureus Medical is a larger agency. Despite having a dedicated recruiter, you may interact with multiple staff members across different departments.
This can sometimes lead to information gaps, requiring you to reiterate information if communication breakdowns occur within their internal teams.
| 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) was founded in 1999. TNAA frequently appears on top travel nursing agency lists and is regarded as a highly reputable agency nationwide.
TNAA prides itself on strong relationships with client facilities and a transparent company culture.
A significant advantage of TNAA is their robust benefits package. They provide an Assignment Benefit Summary before each assignment begins, ensuring transparency and clarity.
For nurses willing to work extra hours, TNAA offers “TNAA Boost Pay,” a higher rate for working additional shifts.
The agency also provides standard benefits and even includes pay protection in case of shift cancellations.
While TNAA has a comprehensive job board, they typically do not publicly display pay rates on third-party job sites. This lack of upfront pay transparency might be a drawback when searching for assignments that meet your compensation expectations.
| 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 staffing healthcare facilities facing urgent nurse shortages.
This focus means assignments are often in high-pressure, emergency-setting environments. It also typically requires nurses to be ready to start working within 48 hours.
While these assignments are more demanding, Krucial Staffing compensates nurses accordingly for the increased challenges.
Additionally, you can expect:
- Day-one benefits eligibility.
- Extra benefits through Krucial’s partner network.
- Excellent housing options.
If you are seeking challenging assignments, quick deployments, and a variety of shorter-term contracts, Krucial Staffing may be a good fit.
| 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 rapid deployment of travel nurses. They typically place nurses in assignments within 72 hours.
NuWest has a smaller company feel with a more personalized approach. They offer competitive pay rates and standard travel nursing benefits.
A potential downside is a smaller number of available assignments compared to larger agencies. Their placements are primarily concentrated in:
- Florida
- Montana
- California
However, if you are a travel nurse aiming to work in one of these states and are prepared for quick mobilization, NuWest could be a suitable 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, permanent positions.
If you are a travel nurse seeking comprehensive coverage of your needs, TotalMed Staffing is a viable option. They have a large network and a robust online job board, offering numerous assignment choices.
TotalMed Staffing also provides:
- Day-one benefits eligibility.
- Assistance with credentialing and paperwork.
- Educational and professional support resources.
Some nurses have reported a lengthy onboarding process as a potential drawback. However, for most nurses, the onboarding experience 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. In addition to travel nurses, they provide staffing for home healthcare and wellness services. Maxim employs over 65,000 healthcare professionals across the United States.
Maxim offers competitive pay rates and placements at reputable facilities nationwide.
Similar to some other agencies on this list, many Maxim travel nursing assignments tend to be in high-stress, high-volume healthcare environments.
While these assignments often come with higher pay, they may not be the best fit for nurses newer to travel assignments.
Historically, Maxim has been reported to have slower resolution times for paycheck issues. While issues are typically resolved, this can add stress to already demanding assignments.
| 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.
A key differentiator for Trustaff is their excellent communication and supportive staff. They have an active support line with readily available assistance.
Trustaff provides standard travel nursing benefits, including:
- Health insurance options.
- 401(k) retirement savings plan.
- Start and completion bonuses for assignments.
However, assignment lengths can be inconsistent with Trustaff. While typical travel nursing assignments last 13 weeks, assignments with Trustaff may be shorter or longer.
If schedule consistency is a high priority, Trustaff might not be the most suitable agency.
| 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 streamlined and user-friendly digital marketplace for finding travel nursing assignments. Their pay packages are generally on the higher end of the pay spectrum.
Additional benefits of working with Nomad Health include:
- Weekly pay disbursements.
- Licensure reimbursement programs.
- Medical, dental, and vision benefits packages.
However, some travel nurses have reported communication challenges when working with Nomad Health. This can be particularly problematic for nurses new to travel assignments who require more guidance and support.
Nomad Travel Nursing is part of the larger Nomad Health platform, potentially leading to a less personalized experience within a large organizational structure.
It’s worth noting that Nomad Health receives both high (5-star) and low (1-star) ratings, suggesting individual experiences can vary significantly, potentially depending on the recruiter assigned.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 3.52 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 3.3 (56 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 3.6 (159 Ratings) |
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Which Travel Nursing Agency Offers the Highest Pay?
There isn’t a single travel nursing agency that consistently pays the absolute highest rates. All agencies listed here offer competitive compensation.
To maximize your earning potential, focus on factors like assignment location and contract type, rather than solely on the agency.
For example, travel nurses typically earn more in states like California or New York compared to states like Arkansas or Kentucky. However, consider the higher cost of living in states with higher pay rates.
Additionally, specialized nursing roles often command higher pay than general RN positions. Pursuing certifications or advanced degrees can increase your earning capacity.
Regardless of the agency you choose, travel nursing salaries generally exceed those of permanent registered nurses. The average annual salary for a travel nurse is approximately $106,030, compared to around $82,750 for permanent RNs.
Begin Your Journey with the Best Travel Nursing Agencies
While Axis Medical Staffing is currently the top-rated travel nursing agency, the ideal agency for you depends on your individual priorities and preferences.
Don’t hesitate to explore multiple agencies before making your final decision. Thorough research ensures you secure the best possible contract and agency partnership for your travel nursing career.
If you’re ready to start your travel nursing adventure, begin exploring opportunities today!
