Stipend vs Company Housing

[nursespinka]

So it will be my first time traveling this spring and I wanted to know if money can still be made while taking company housing. I'd like to get the hang of things before going through the trouble of finding my own, but I would also like to take home about 1400/ per week. I will eventually get my CA license but may take a closer to home assignment. Is this pay goal unrealistic if taking company housing? Pay would probably have to be about 40/hr. Would anyone just recommend jumping right in and taking the stipend? I do have a husband and a 45lb dog so sharing a room is not an option. Im stepdown tele. Any areas besides CA that are known for paying well in the spring time? Thanks travelers!

[NedRN]

Try calling some agencies to get a feel for how much you can make with your experience and specialty with the housing you need in areas you would like to travel to. That is a four variable question - too many to provide a guess even knowing all of them.

Rooms are still possible on your own. In many locations the difficulty of finding short term housing with a dog means they might strike out and you would be on your own anyway for housing anyway if you want that particular assignment.

Generally I recommend not worrying too much about pay your first assignment. With a successful travel assignment on your work history you will be much more competitive. Learning the industry in ands outs usually means experienced travelers make more than newbies.

Most travel assignments pay between $40 and $50 an hour total pay including housing. It may not prove feasible for you with your financial requirements.

[StudyinginCT]

I agree with NedRN. I am coming to the end of my 13 week assignment, my first, with Talemed. They are ranked #1 by highway hypodermics. I have been very pleased with my recruiter and my assignment. I traveled within driving distance for my first assignment and will be renewing. I found that there is a sharp learning curve for the hospital and culture and will enjoy staying there now that I feel I've found a groove. I took the stipend as I travel from home and use hotels rooms or air bnb when needed. I have found a culture amongst travelers "I won't get out of bed for less than..." decide what your salary basement is. These recruiters make money off of you. You're the commodity. Decide what you're worth. With 6 year experience, I'm worth $1500 after taxes and insurance....