ER / Emergency Travel Nurse Salary (2026)
ER / Emergency is an in-demand travel nursing specialties. Here's what ER travel nurses earn in 2026, where pay is highest, what's required, and how to keep more of every paycheck.
Updated June 2026 · Estimates compiled from public job-board data
How much do ER / Emergency travel nurses make?
In 2026, ER / Emergency travel nurses typically earn between $2,600 – $4,300 per week in total compensation — taxable base pay plus tax-free housing and meal stipends. Crisis contracts, hard-to-fill locations, and night shifts can push packages higher.
Demand for ER travelers is very high. Want a number for your exact offer? Run it through the ScrubbedIn pay calculator to see estimated take-home.
Where ER / Emergency travel nurses earn the most
Pay tends to be highest in California, Washington, New York, Texas, and crisis markets. Remember to compare take-home, not just gross — no-income-tax states often net more.
Gross pay is highest in high-cost, high-demand states; no-income-tax states often win on take-home. Compare both, and see full detail on our state pages.
| State | Typical weekly range | State income tax |
|---|---|---|
| California | $3,354 – $4,300 | Up to ~9.3% |
| Washington | $3,096 – $4,085 | 0% |
| New York | $3,096 – $4,171 | Up to ~6.85% |
| Texas | $2,730 – $3,784 | 0% |
| Florida | $2,600 – $3,526 | 0% |
ER / Emergency travel nurse requirements
- Active RN license (compact helps)
- BLS, ACLS, and PALS
- TNCC (trauma) often required; CEN preferred
- 1–2 years recent ER experience; trauma-center experience is a plus
Keep every credential and expiration date in one place with the ScrubbedIn Credentials Vault so a lapsed cert never costs you a contract.
How to maximize your pay
- Add or keep certifications current — they signal expertise and can unlock higher rates.
- Stay flexible on location and shift — nights, weekends, and hard-to-fill markets pay premiums.
- Protect your stipends by maintaining a tax home — see the tax guide.
- Vet the contract — float and cancellation terms can erase a great rate. Use the Contract Analyzer.
Find your next ER contract — and know what it's worth
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Join ScrubbedIn Free Browse JobsER / Emergency travel nurse FAQ
How much do ER / Emergency travel nurses make in 2026?
Typically $2,600 – $4,300 per week in total compensation, with crisis contracts and high-demand markets reaching higher.
What certifications do ER travel nurses need?
Most ER contracts require BLS, ACLS, and PALS, with TNCC commonly required and CEN preferred. One to two years of recent emergency experience is typical.
Is ER travel nursing in demand?
Yes. Emergency departments are among the hardest roles to staff, so ER consistently sees very high travel demand and premium pay.
Where do ER travel nurses earn the most?
Pay is generally highest in California, Washington, New York, Texas, and crisis markets, though no-tax states often deliver more take-home.
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All figures are estimates compiled from publicly available job-board listings and are for general comparison only. Actual pay varies by facility, agency, experience, shift, and contract terms. ScrubbedIn is not a tax advisor; consult a qualified professional for personalized advice.