Is it better to work agency or staff nursing?

Agency nursing typically pays 20-50% more per hour than staff positions but lacks benefits like health insurance, PTO, and retirement matching. Staff positions offer stability, benefits, and career advancement. The best choice depends on your financial situation, career goals, and lifestyle preferences.

How much more do agency nurses make than staff nurses?

Agency nurses typically earn $5-$25 more per hour than equivalent staff positions. However, after accounting for the value of staff benefits (health insurance worth $5,000-$15,000/year, PTO, retirement matching), the gap narrows significantly.

Agency vs. Staff Nurse Calculator | Travel Nursing Pay Comparison

Staff Nurse

Full-Time

Travel Nurse

Contract

Annual Net Advantage

+$8,500

Travel Nursing Pays More

Staff Nurse - Monthly

Gross Income $5,417

Taxes & FICA -$1,100

Insurance -$250

401k Contribution -$271

Net Take-Home $3,796

Travel Nurse - Monthly

Taxable Wages $4,480

Tax-Free Stipends $7,600

Taxes & FICA -$530

Insurance -$325

Net Take-Home $11,225

5-Year Cumulative Earnings

$189,800

Staff (5 yrs)

$223,500

Travel (5 yrs)

Staff Nurse

Travel Nurse

Break-Even Analysis

Monthly Difference +$7,429

Time to Break Even Already Ahead

Annual Difference +$89,148

Travel Nursing is the Better Choice

Based on the numbers, travel nursing offers significantly higher earnings. You'll earn approximately $89,148 more per year compared to staff nursing. Even after accounting for less stability, the financial advantage is substantial.