Embarking on a career as a travel nurse is an exciting venture, filled with opportunities to explore new locations, enhance your skills, and broaden your professional network. However, navigating the landscape of travel nursing agencies can feel overwhelming. With numerous options available, it’s crucial to identify the best Travel Nursing Agency to support your career aspirations.
To simplify your search, we’ve compiled data from reputable platforms like Indeed and Glassdoor to present you with a curated list of top-rated travel nursing agencies for 2023 and 2024. These rankings are based on feedback from travel nurses themselves, offering genuine insights into the experiences of working with these agencies.
This article will guide you through the top-rated travel nursing agencies, providing detailed information about each one. For those seeking deeper insights, we’ve included links to our comprehensive reviews. Furthermore, we’ll offer recommendations based on our research to help you pinpoint agencies that excel in specific areas such as benefits, support, and more.
By the end of this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to understand what each travel nursing agency offers, enabling you to confidently choose the right travel nursing agency to align with your unique career goals.
>> Explore High Paying Travel Nurse Positions Now
Navigating the World of Travel Nursing Agencies
Choosing the “best” travel nursing agency is subjective and depends largely on individual preferences and priorities. While Axis Medical Staffing emerges as a top contender based on travel nurse ratings on Indeed and Glassdoor, it’s essential to remember that the ideal agency for one nurse might not be the same for another.
For instance, a travel nurse might prioritize a strong rapport with their recruiter, while another might place greater emphasis on compensation packages or benefits. Understanding your own needs is the first step in finding the perfect travel nursing agency partner.
>> Explore High Paying Travel Nurse Positions Now
Top Travel Nursing Agency for Unparalleled Support: Host Healthcare
For travel nurses who value exceptional support, Host Healthcare stands out as a leading travel nursing agency. Recognized for its commitment to accessibility, Host Healthcare provides 24/7 support from recruiters. Whether you have a question at any hour, day or night, you can readily reach out via call, text, or direct message for prompt assistance. This level of constant support makes Host Healthcare particularly appealing for nurses who are new to travel nursing and may appreciate extra guidance.
Regardless of your experience level, knowing you have immediate access to support can be invaluable. Host Healthcare extends its support across all 50 states, offering a wide range of job opportunities. Simply specify your desired location, and Host Healthcare will assist you in securing suitable assignments.
Best Travel Nursing Agency for Comprehensive Benefits: RNnetwork
If robust benefits are a key factor in your agency selection, RNnetwork is a travel nursing agency worth considering. Notably, RNnetwork offers benefits from day one of your contract, ensuring immediate coverage and peace of mind.
Their extensive benefits package includes:
- Zero-Premium Health Insurance: RNnetwork fully covers health insurance premiums, extending coverage to dependents and life partners.
- Prescription Pay: Enjoy no-deductible prescription medication coverage.
- Dental Plan: Receive 100% coverage for preventative dental services and orthodontic coverage for children.
- Vision Benefits: Access coverage for lenses, glasses, frames, and eye exams nationwide.
- Continuing Education: Benefit from free, unlimited continuing education courses and licensure assistance.
- Credentialing Assistance: Receive comprehensive support and substantial financial coverage for licensing and certifications.
- Employee Assistance Program: Access expert advice for financial, mental, behavioral, and legal matters.
- Life and AD&D Insurance: Obtain $50,000 in coverage without needing to enroll in a medical plan.
- Teladoc: Utilize 24/7 physician consultation services via phone.
- Sanvello: Access a free mindfulness app to manage stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Talkspace: Connect with licensed therapists online 24/7.
Further details about the advantages of choosing RNnetwork are discussed in our comprehensive agency rankings below.
Largest Travel Nursing Agency: AMN Healthcare
AMN Healthcare distinguishes itself as the largest travel nursing agency in the industry. Reports from recent years indicate that AMN Healthcare holds nearly 20% of the entire market share.
Choosing to work with the largest travel nursing agency comes with significant advantages, including a vast and diverse selection of job opportunities. Furthermore, AMN Healthcare provides substantial support and comprehensive benefits, such as complimentary housing, 401(k) plans, and life insurance.
Established in 1985, AMN Healthcare boasts a long-standing and reputable presence in the industry. The agency has cultivated exclusive partnerships with healthcare facilities, providing travel nurses with access to an even wider array of job placements.
In summary, AMN Healthcare is a strong option for travel nurses seeking a large, established agency with extensive resources and opportunities.
Top 21 Travel Nursing Agencies Ranked by Nurses
Below is our ranking of the 21 best travel nursing agencies, based on authentic reviews from travel nurses on Indeed and Glassdoor. In cases where data was limited on these platforms, we incorporated reviews from Facebook to ensure a comprehensive evaluation.
1. Axis Medical Staffing
Axis Medical Staffing has earned the top position as the best travel nursing agency for 2023, according to our analysis of travel nurse ratings.
Founded in 2004, Axis Medical Staffing offers a range of compelling benefits, including:
- Assignment opportunities across all 50 states.
- A personalized approach that sets them apart from larger agencies.
- A competitive and transparent payment structure.
While highly rated, it’s worth noting that healthcare benefits become available the first of the month following your hire date, meaning there is a waiting period. If immediate benefits are a priority, other agencies may offer day-one coverage. However, for nurses prioritizing adventure and a personal agency experience, Axis Medical Staffing is an excellent choice.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.96 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.9 (54 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 5 (84 Ratings) |
Explore Axis’s High-Paying Travel Nurse 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 you can always reach out with questions, and their recruiters are dedicated to finding assignments that match your preferences.
Beyond support, Host Healthcare provides numerous other advantages, such as access to thousands of exclusive contract positions throughout the United States. Additional benefits include:
- Day-one medical coverage that extends for up to 30 days between assignments.
- 401(k) matching contributions.
- Travel expense reimbursements.
- A dedicated housing support team to assist with accommodation arrangements.
Host Healthcare’s comprehensive support system makes it an ideal choice for nurses new to travel nursing, while seasoned travelers also appreciate the agency’s robust resources.
| 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,” reflecting their commitment to transparency and efficiency. Employee reviews consistently praise their clear and open communication style.
If building strong, lasting relationships and maintaining regular communication with your recruiter is important to you, Triage Staffing could be an excellent fit. The agency fosters a fun and casual work environment, which may appeal to many travel nurses.
Note that Triage Staffing typically requires two years of nursing experience. However, if you are still gaining experience, they encourage you to connect and build a relationship for future opportunities.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.77 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.7 (236 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 4.8 (645 Ratings) |
Explore Triage Travel Nurse Jobs & Compare
4. Fusion Medical Staffing
Fusion Medical Staffing is another highly-regarded travel nursing agency. Starting as a small business in 2009, Fusion has experienced rapid growth, earning recognition for its fast growth and positive workplace culture.
Reasons to consider Fusion Medical Staffing include:
- They welcome new graduate nurses and offer a mentorship program.
- They prioritize social responsibility and community involvement through volunteering.
- They cultivate an inclusive culture, actively participating in LGBTQ+ pride events and disability fundraisers.
While Fusion hires new graduates, their website may lack comprehensive details for those new to travel nursing. It’s important to ask detailed questions to ensure Fusion adequately meets your specific needs.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.71 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.6 (243 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 4.8 (305 Ratings) |
View & Compare Fusion Travel Nurse Placements
5. Travel Nurses Inc.
Travel Nurses Inc. (TNI) has been operating for over 30 years and provides 24/7 clinical support. They have also received ClearlyRated Best of Staffing awards in 2021 and 2022, highlighting their service quality.
TNI features a robust job board and a “Furnished Finder” tool directly on their website for convenient housing arrangements. They offer day-one healthcare coverage and prioritize contract transparency, ensuring your recruiter reviews your contract with you before each assignment.
Although Indeed and Glassdoor ratings are limited, TNI receives many positive reviews on their Facebook and Google pages, which are worth exploring. One requirement to note is that TNI typically requires 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 among the top travel nursing agencies and has been in the industry for over three decades. They emphasize close collaboration with travel nurses and tailor contracts to meet individual needs.
A unique aspect of Atlas MedStaff is the “Atlas Adventure” included in each contract, offering experiences ranging from skiing trips to attending professional sports games.
Other benefits of working with Atlas MedStaff include:
- Excellent insurance and benefits packages.
- Paid private housing options.
- Focus on building transparent and long-term relationships with nurses.
Developing a strong relationship with your Atlas MedStaff recruiter is key to a positive experience, as with many 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 recruiting healthcare professionals for over 15 years.
If competitive salary is a top priority, Prime Time Healthcare is a strong contender. Their travel nurse salaries often exceed average rates and include attractive secondary perks, such as:
- A comprehensive range of benefits.
- Referral bonuses for bringing in other nurses.
- Paid travel expenses to assignments.
Prime Time Healthcare tends to work with experienced, high-caliber healthcare professionals. They also staff for per diem nursing and permanent positions, in addition to travel nursing. If you prefer an agency exclusively focused on travel nursing, you might consider other options. However, for those seeking long-term career growth with potential transitions beyond travel nursing, 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 is known for providing customized contracts tailored to each travel nurse’s specific needs and preferences. A consultant will discuss your priorities with you before finalizing any contract.
While contract details vary, typical benefits from Medical Solutions include:
- A strong 401(k) retirement savings plan.
- Referral bonuses for recommending other nurses.
- Loyalty bonuses for continued service.
- Comprehensive health benefits.
- An employee assistance program for personal and professional support.
The flexibility and customization offered by Medical Solutions can be advantageous for experienced travel nurses who know their preferences. However, the numerous options might be overwhelming for those new to travel nursing. If you are a beginner, an agency with more standardized, well-established contracts might be 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 is ranked among the top travel nursing agencies, offering a blend of personalized service with the resources of a large organization. RNnetwork is part of CHG Healthcare Services, a large healthcare staffing company, providing substantial backing and resources.
Benefits of choosing RNnetwork include:
- Exclusive focus on travel nursing.
- Competitive compensation and benefits packages.
- An intuitive and user-friendly job search platform.
Be aware that experiences can vary based on the recruiter you are paired with. A strong recruiter relationship is crucial for a smooth and positive experience with RNnetwork.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.45 |
|---|---|
| Facebook Average Rating | 4.5 (178 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 4.4 (159 Ratings) |
10. OneStaff Medical
OneStaff Medical emphasizes experienced recruiters and a strong dedication to their nurses. They offer 24/7/365 representative availability, ensuring support is always accessible.
OneStaff Medical also provides guidance on career advancement and assistance in meeting your travel expectations. Like most leading travel nursing agencies, they offer standard benefits and various housing options.
However, OneStaff Medical typically seeks travel nurses with at least two years of experience. Some nurses have reported occasional internal communication issues between departments. While these may be isolated incidents, it’s wise to be mindful and ensure clear communication throughout your interactions.
| 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 largest and most recognized travel nursing agencies in the United States.
Their size and established reputation provide access to a vast selection of assignments across the country.
Additional advantages of working with Aya Healthcare include:
- Day-one benefits eligibility.
- Support with credentialing and paperwork processes.
- Scholarship and educational assistance programs for career development.
Aya Healthcare is a strong option for nurses seeking an agency with extensive resources and a wide reach. However, due to its size, building a deeply personal relationship with your recruiter might be more challenging compared to smaller agencies. If a highly personalized approach is a top priority, consider this factor.
| 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 facilities facing critical needs during crises like natural disasters or severe staffing shortages.
Fastaff offers some of the highest pay rates in travel nursing, reflecting the demanding nature of their “Rapid Response” assignments. If maximizing income is your primary goal, Fastaff may be a compelling choice.
However, be prepared to begin assignments quickly, often within 48 hours of accepting a position. These assignments are typically better suited for experienced nurses due to their intensity and urgent nature. Fastaff’s culture tends to be more professional and less informal due to the emergency-driven 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 mentioned, AMN Healthcare is the largest travel nursing agency, offering access to a wide range of exclusive job opportunities and resources.
Beyond job availability, AMN Healthcare provides numerous benefits, such as:
- Free, high-quality private housing.
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
- 401(k) and flexible spending accounts for financial planning.
- Life insurance coverage.
- Free continuing education courses for professional development.
- Discounts on various services and products, including computers, cell phones, hotels, car rentals, and gym memberships.
AMN Healthcare’s mobile app, AMN Passport, is particularly noteworthy, allowing nurses to receive personalized job alerts, manage time and pay details, and organize credentials conveniently. Overall, AMN Healthcare is well-suited for travel nurses with some experience seeking an agency with extensive resources and benefits.
| 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 operation for over 35 years and promotes a highly personalized approach to travel nursing.
Each nurse is assigned a dedicated recruiter. However, 24/7 support is available even if your recruiter is unavailable.
Aureus Medical also offers:
- Long-standing relationships with numerous healthcare facilities.
- A dedicated housing and travel department to assist with logistics.
- Robust benefits packages.
Being a larger agency, you may interact with multiple staff members beyond your dedicated recruiter, which can occasionally lead to information gaps. It’s advisable to ensure your information is clearly communicated and reiterated as needed.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 4.06 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 3.9 (496 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 4.23 (330 Ratings) |
15. Travel Nurse Across America (TNAA)
Travel Nurse Across America (TNAA) was founded in 1999 and is consistently ranked among the top travel nursing agencies, recognized for its strong reputation.
TNAA prides itself on strong relationships with client facilities and a transparent company culture. A key highlight is their benefits program, providing an Assignment Benefit Summary before each assignment starts.
TNAA also offers “TNAA Boost Pay,” providing a higher rate for working extra shifts. Standard benefits are included, along with pay protection if a shift is canceled.
While TNAA boasts a comprehensive job board, pay rates are not always publicly listed on third-party job sites, which could be a drawback when comparing compensation packages.
| 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.
Assignments often involve high-risk, emergency settings, requiring nurses to be ready to start within 48 hours. While these assignments are more demanding, compensation is typically higher to reflect the challenges.
Additional benefits include:
- Day-one benefits coverage.
- Extra benefits through Krucial’s partner network.
- Quality housing options.
Krucial Staffing is suitable for nurses seeking challenging, high-intensity assignments, often with shorter contract durations.
| 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 and emphasizes quick placement of travel nurses, typically deploying nurses within 72 hours.
NuWest offers a smaller agency feel with a more personalized touch, alongside competitive pay and standard travel nurse benefits. However, they have a smaller pool of available assignments compared to larger agencies, primarily staffing facilities in:
- Florida
- Montana
- California
NuWest is a good option for travel nurses seeking assignments in these specific states and who are prepared for rapid deployment.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 3.90 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.0 (151 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 3.8 (139 Ratings) |
Compare Travel Nurse Placements & Salaries
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 options.
They also offer:
- Day-one benefits eligibility.
- Assistance with credentialing and paperwork.
- Educational and professional support resources.
Some nurses have reported a lengthy onboarding process with TotalMed. However, this is not a widespread issue and most nurses do not experience significant delays.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 3.85 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 4.0 (251 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 3.7 (245 Ratings) |
Compare TotalMed Travel Nurse Placements & Salaries
19. Maxim Healthcare Staffing
Maxim Healthcare Staffing has been in the healthcare staffing industry for over three decades. Besides travel nurses, they also staff for home healthcare and wellness services, employing over 65,000 healthcare professionals nationwide.
Maxim offers competitive pay rates and placements in reputable facilities across the country. Many travel nurse assignments are in high-stress, high-volume environments. While these positions offer higher pay, they may be less suitable for nurses with less experience.
Historically, Maxim has faced some delays in resolving paycheck issues, although these were eventually resolved. This is a factor to consider, particularly for assignments in already stressful settings.
| 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 recognized for its excellent communication and helpful staff, offering an active support line for immediate assistance. They provide standard benefits expected from a travel nursing agency, including:
- Health insurance options.
- 401(k) retirement plans.
- Sign-on and completion bonuses.
However, assignment lengths with Trustaff can be variable. While typical travel nurse contracts are 13 weeks long, Trustaff assignments may be shorter or longer. If schedule consistency is crucial, this variability may be a consideration.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 3.52 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 3.7 (370 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 3.3 (297 Ratings) |
Find A Travel Nurse Placement Now
21. Nomad Health
Nomad Health provides a streamlined digital marketplace for finding travel nursing assignments. Their pay packages are often on the higher end of the pay spectrum.
Additional benefits of working with Nomad Health include:
- Weekly pay disbursements.
- Licensure reimbursement assistance.
- Medical, dental, and vision benefits packages.
However, some travel nurses have reported communication challenges with Nomad Health. This can be particularly problematic for those new to travel nursing. Nomad Travel Nursing is part of the broader Nomad Health platform, which may contribute to a less personalized experience.
Reviews for Nomad Health are mixed, with both highly positive and negative feedback, suggesting experiences may depend heavily on the specific recruiter assigned.
| BetterNurse Aggregate Rating | 3.52 |
|---|---|
| Indeed Average Rating | 3.3 (56 Ratings) |
| Glassdoor Average Rating | 3.6 (159 Ratings) |
Find A Travel Nurse Placement Now
Identifying the Highest Paying Travel Nursing Agency
It’s important to understand that no single travel nursing agency consistently offers the highest pay. All agencies listed here provide competitive compensation. Maximizing your earning potential depends more on factors like assignment location and contract specialization.
For example, travel nurses typically earn more in states like California or New York compared to states like Arkansas or Kentucky, reflecting differences in cost of living. Specialized nursing roles generally command higher pay than general RN positions. Pursuing certifications or advanced degrees can significantly increase your earning capacity.
Regardless of the travel nursing agency you choose, travel nursing salaries are generally higher than salaries for permanent registered nurses. The average annual salary for a travel nurse is approximately $106,030, compared to around $82,750 for resident RN salaries.
Taking the Next Step in Your Travel Nursing Career
While Axis Medical Staffing is currently the top-rated travel nursing agency for 2023, the optimal choice for you depends on your individual priorities and preferences. We encourage you to explore multiple travel nursing agencies before making a final decision to ensure you find the best fit for your career journey.
Ready to begin your travel nursing adventure? Start exploring opportunities and travel the country while advancing your nursing career!
