PCU / Stepdown Travel Nurse Salary (2026)
PCU / Stepdown is an in-demand travel nursing specialties. Here's what PCU 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 PCU / Stepdown travel nurses make?
In 2026, PCU / Stepdown travel nurses typically earn between $2,300 – $3,700 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 PCU travelers is high. Want a number for your exact offer? Run it through the ScrubbedIn pay calculator to see estimated take-home.
Where PCU / Stepdown travel nurses earn the most
Pay tends to be highest in California, Texas, New York, Washington, and Massachusetts. 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 | $2,886 – $3,700 | Up to ~9.3% |
| Washington | $2,664 – $3,515 | 0% |
| New York | $2,664 – $3,589 | Up to ~6.85% |
| Texas | $2,415 – $3,256 | 0% |
| Florida | $2,300 – $3,034 | 0% |
PCU / Stepdown travel nurse requirements
- Active RN license
- BLS and ACLS
- PCCN preferred
- 1–2 years recent progressive care / stepdown experience
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 PCU contract — and know what it's worth
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How much do PCU / Stepdown travel nurses make in 2026?
Typically $2,300 – $3,700 per week in total compensation, with crisis contracts and high-demand markets reaching higher.
What is PCU/stepdown nursing?
Progressive care (stepdown) sits between med-surg and ICU — higher acuity than tele, but not full intensive care. It's a strong, steady travel specialty.
How much do PCU travel nurses make?
Typically $2,300–$3,700 per week in 2026, depending on location and demand.
Where do PCU travel nurses earn the most?
Pay is generally highest in California, Texas, New York, Washington, and Massachusetts, 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.