Travel Nurse Pay, am I getting what I should be?

[wsmile77]

If anybody could respond to this post I would greatly appreciate it. Over this summer I took two different travel positions in MA two different hospitals, two different travel Agencies. One I took the stipend for housing costs, and the current one I took the housing itself. I have heard that being a travel nurse one should make "good" money. Usually more than a staff postion. However, I am only making $19 an hour and the housing in nice but my take home pay is about three hundred dollars less than what I was making at my permanent position in NM. I have been told I am getting jipped. Can someone please tell me what avg. pay hourly for a travel nurse? I will mention I am also specialty Critical Care? Thank you to all responses.

[wsmile77]

Actually the reason for possibly needing to break contract has to do with something completely separate from being dissapointed. I actuall posted seprately on that subject, but again thanks for the response!!!

[Tinksrn]

I've been traveling since 2005 and I have worked for many companies. They do act like that's all they can do- they lie. Refuse it- tell them (next time) the pay is to low. Sorry going to work with another company. Within 48 hours the company will call you back and offer you more money. I also like to use at least 3 companies when searching for my next contract. Whoever offers me the best deal is who I go with. Don't be afraid to let them know they have competition- they will work harder and faster to get you into a position you are happy with. Good luck! You are so getting screwed out of money. The rates are lower than they were a few years ago. Try to pocket the housing stipend and find your own housing- craigslist is good. Find a roomate and go for it!

[flnursemichelle]

wsmile77, I think that your payrate is slightly low but also, consider the higher costs of housing there so maybe it is normal. I think that the next time, I would say to them, "I'm sorry, that seems too low, I can't take it. I will wait for something that offers more money." Considering the cost of living in the whole state, I would think that the pay rate would be higher but I know they also have state taxes there where in Fl, where I work, we don't have state taxes so that helps too. I would work out this assignment if you can, chaulk it up to a learning experience and go from there. Good luck and I hope it works out for you!