Randjj1

Thanks - I really appreciate the info.

Thanks, NedRN. I appreciate the info about realistic travel pay. I do have a tax home so I'll receive some tax benefits, but upkeep without renting will be expensive. $38-39 was actually using PanTraveler's calculator. I've read about recruiters offering low pay, especially for first assignments, but if this is a decent travel offer, I think I need to start viewing travel nursing as an opportunity to fund travel adventures vs. making a similar salary. That's not a bad thing - it's just good to know - I wasn't sure if they were low balling me.

First of all, I appreciate this forum and have learned a lot from reading through posts - thanks! I am an ER nurse with 10+ years experience. I plan to travel with my wife and kids - we plan to stay in our RV at campgrounds. We're looking to travel to Richmond, VA (near family and friends) for the first assignment. I'm working with a few companies and have interviewed with several hospitals/ been offered a few jobs. I have, however, been surprised at the pay packages offered - all were similar. The blended rate for taxable pay, untaxed per diems, completion bonus, AND housing stipend comes in at around $38-39 an hour. I was expecting around $35/hr including pay/per diems/bonuses (which is lower than my hourly rate at my current job where I receive full benefits) PLUS a reasonable housing stipend. The packages offered don't include insurance/ insurance stipend/ 401k/ any additional benefits. I tried to negotiate a higher blended rate with one company,but all the recruiter did was switch the numbers around without changing the overall rate. Is this offer typical/ normal, am I being too optimistic, or am I being taken advantage of? Thanks for any input.