CPA guide • 2026 update
Staff Nurse vs. Travel Nurse: A Real Salary Breakdown (2026)
If you’re asking “is travel nursing worth it 2026?” the answer is about net pay, not headlines. Travel roles can pay more, but taxes, housing costs, and contract gaps can shrink the advantage. Here’s a CPA-style breakdown of staff vs travel pay.
The Rules: Key IRS and Pay Concepts
- Staff pay is fully taxable. Benefits add value, but wages are taxed.
- Travel pay includes stipends. Tax-free only if you maintain a valid tax home.
- GSA limits cap stipends. Excess becomes taxable.
- Gaps between contracts matter. Fewer paid weeks reduce annual totals.
The Math: Annual Comparison
Assume 48 weeks of staff work and 40 weeks of travel work, a 25% tax rate, and weekly staff gross of $1,700.
| Scenario | Weeks Worked | Weekly Taxable Wages | Weekly Stipend | Annual Gross | Estimated Annual Net |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scenario A (Staff) | 48 | $1,700 | $0 | $81,600 | $61,200 |
| Scenario B (Travel) | 40 | $1,500 | $900 | $96,000 | $70,000 |
Even with fewer weeks worked, travel still wins in this example. But the gap can close fast if stipends become taxable or housing costs rise.
What a CPA Watches For
- Tax home compliance (lose it and the travel advantage disappears).
- Housing costs that eat into stipend value.
- State taxes in high-tax assignments.
- Benefit value in staff roles (insurance, retirement match).
FAQ
Do travel nurses really earn more net pay?
Often yes—if stipends stay tax-free and housing costs are controlled.
What about benefits?
Staff roles often provide richer benefits; include them in comparisons.
Is travel nursing worth it 2026 if rates drop?
It depends on taxes, housing costs, and time between contracts.
Final Takeaway
The staff vs travel decision isn’t about gross pay—it’s about realistic annual net. If you keep your tax home compliant and manage housing costs, travel can still win in 2026.
Estimate your net pay in minutes
Use the calculator to compare taxable wages vs. stipends and see your true take-home.