Travel Nurse Salary in Arizona (2026)
Here's what travel nurses actually earn in Arizona in 2026 — weekly packages by specialty, top-paying cities, licensing, and how taxes and cost of living shape your real take-home.
Updated June 2026 · Estimates compiled from public job-board data
How much do travel nurses make in Arizona?
In 2026, most Arizona travel nurse contracts land between $2,300 – $3,500 per week in total compensation — taxable base pay plus tax-free housing and meal stipends — with a common average around ~$2,800/week. Annualized, that's roughly $119K–$182K if you stay booked year-round (most travelers take time off between contracts, so real annual pay is usually lower).
Arizona pairs solid pay with a low flat 2.5% state tax and lower housing costs than the coasts, and winter demand is strong as seasonal residents arrive.
Arizona travel nurse pay by specialty
Typical 2026 weekly total packages by specialty in Arizona. High-acuity and procedural roles command the most.
| Specialty | Typical weekly range |
|---|---|
| ICU / Critical Care | $2,975 – $3,500 |
| ER / Emergency | $2,730 – $3,325 |
| L&D / Labor & Delivery | $2,730 – $3,395 |
| OR / Surgical | $2,520 – $3,150 |
| Telemetry / PCU | $2,415 – $2,975 |
| Med-Surg | $2,300 – $3,100 |
Want your own number? Plug your offer into the free pay calculator to see estimated take-home after Arizona taxes and stipends.
Highest-paying Arizona cities for travel nurses
The strongest pay and contract volume in Arizona are usually around Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa, Scottsdale. Bigger metros pay more but cost more — smaller cities can deliver better net value once housing is factored in.
Licensing: working as a travel nurse in Arizona
Arizona is a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) member. If you hold a multistate (compact) license, you can typically start a Arizona contract without waiting for a new state license — a real scheduling advantage. Always confirm current compact status with the compact license guide and your state board.
How to maximize your take-home
- Protect your tax-free stipends by maintaining a tax home and duplicating expenses — see the tax guide.
- Compare net, not gross — weigh state tax and housing cost.
- Use the Housing Finder to compare furnished options before you commit.
- Run the contract through the Contract Analyzer for float, OT, and cancellation terms.
See your real Arizona take-home in 60 seconds
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How much do travel nurses make in Arizona in 2026?
Most Arizona contracts pay $2,300 – $3,500 per week in total compensation, with a common average around ~$2,800/week. High-demand specialties trend higher.
Are travel nurse stipends taxed in Arizona?
Housing and meal stipends are tax-free if you maintain a legitimate tax home and duplicate living expenses. Arizona's state income tax on taxable base pay is 2.5%.
Which Arizona cities pay travel nurses the most?
Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa, Scottsdale typically post the highest pay and most contracts, though larger metros also have higher living costs.
Do I need a compact license to work in Arizona?
Arizona is a Nurse Licensure Compact member, so a multistate/compact license generally lets you start without a separate Arizona license. Confirm current status with your state board.
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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.