Agency Comparison
Trusted Health vs. Cross Country: Travel Nurse Agency Comparison 2025
Trusted Health (tech-forward, app-based) and Cross Country (traditional, established agency) represent two different approaches to travel nursing. Trusted Health focuses on modern technology and convenience, while Cross Country offers extensive contract volume and comprehensive benefits. This comparison helps you choose based on your priorities.
Quick Comparison: Trusted Health vs. Cross Country
| Factor | Trusted Health | Cross Country |
|---|---|---|
| Average Weekly Pay | $2,100-2,900/week | $2,200-3,100/week |
| Blended Hourly Rate | $52-73/hour | $55-78/hour |
| Technology | App-based platform | Traditional with online portal |
| Benefits Package | Standard | Comprehensive |
| Contract Volume | Moderate | Very High |
| Recruiter Support | Digital-first | Full recruiter support |
| Best For | Tech-savvy nurses | Nurses wanting options |
Technology & Platform Comparison
Trusted Health: App-Based Platform
Modern Tech Experience
- Mobile App: Full-featured app for job searching and management
- Digital-First: Most interactions through app/online
- Convenience: Browse jobs, apply, and communicate via app
- User Experience: Modern, intuitive interface
- Real-Time Updates: Instant notifications and updates
- Self-Service: More control over applications and job search
Trusted Health Advantage: If you prefer managing your job search through a mobile app and value modern technology, Trusted Health offers a streamlined, digital-first experience.
Cross Country: Traditional with Online Portal
Established Traditional Agency
- Online Portal: Web-based portal for job searching
- Traditional Approach: Heavy recruiter involvement
- Comprehensive Platform: Full-featured online system
- Established Systems: Proven, reliable processes
- Recruiter-Driven: Recruiters handle most interactions
Winner: Trusted Health for tech-forward, app-based experience. Cross Country for traditional, recruiter-driven approach.
Detailed Pay Comparison
Trusted Health Pay Structure
Competitive Rates with Tech Focus
- Average Weekly Pay: $2,100-2,900 (varies by specialty and location)
- Blended Hourly Rate: $52-73/hour
- Specialty Premiums: Standard premiums across specialties
- Experience Premiums: Standard increases for experience
- Technology Efficiency: Lower overhead may translate to competitive rates
Example Trusted Health Contract:
- Taxable Hourly Rate: $52/hr × 36 hours = $1,872/week
- Housing Stipend: $1,200/week (tax-free)
- Meal Stipend: $400/week (tax-free)
- Total Weekly Pay: $3,472
- Blended Rate: $96.44/hour
Cross Country Pay Structure
Competitive Rates with High Volume
- Average Weekly Pay: $2,200-3,100 (varies by specialty and location)
- Blended Hourly Rate: $55-78/hour
- Specialty Premiums: Higher premiums for high-demand specialties
- Experience Premiums: Significant increases for experienced travelers
- Volume Advantage: More contracts may mean better rate negotiation
Example Cross Country Contract:
- Taxable Hourly Rate: $58/hr × 36 hours = $2,088/week
- Housing Stipend: $1,400/week (tax-free)
- Meal Stipend: $500/week (tax-free)
- Total Weekly Pay: $3,988
- Blended Rate: $110.78/hour
Pay Comparison: Cross Country typically offers $100-200/week more, especially for experienced travelers and high-demand specialties. However, Trusted Health's competitive rates combined with tech convenience may still be appealing.
Winner: Cross Country typically offers higher pay ($100-200/week more), especially for experienced travelers.
Benefits Comparison
Trusted Health Benefits
Standard Benefits Package
- Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) Plan: Available
- Continuing Education: CEU credits available
- Travel Reimbursement: Standard travel assistance
- Referral Program: Referral bonuses available
- License Reimbursement: Available for qualifying assignments
- Housing Assistance: Housing placement support
Cross Country Benefits
Comprehensive Benefits Package
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) Plan: Company matching available
- Continuing Education: Free CEUs and professional development
- Travel Reimbursement: Comprehensive travel assistance
- Referral Bonuses: Generous referral bonuses
- License Reimbursement: Up to $500 per assignment
- Housing Assistance: Extensive housing placement support
- 24/7 Support: Round-the-clock support
Winner: Cross Country for comprehensive benefits package.
Contract Availability Comparison
Trusted Health Contracts
Moderate Contract Volume
- Contract Volume: Moderate selection across specialties
- Coverage: Good coverage in major markets
- Quality: Curated, quality contracts
- Tech Advantage: Easy to browse and compare via app
Cross Country Contracts
Very High Contract Volume
- Contract Volume: Very high - one of the largest contract networks
- Coverage: Extensive coverage nationwide
- All Specialties: Contracts across all nursing specialties
- High-Demand Areas: Strong presence in high-demand markets
- Variety: Wide range of contract options
Winner: Cross Country for contract volume and variety. Trusted Health for tech-forward browsing experience.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Trusted Health If:
- ✅ You prefer app-based job searching
- ✅ You want modern tech experience
- ✅ You value convenience and digital tools
- ✅ You prefer self-service job management
- ✅ You're comfortable with digital-first interactions
- ✅ You want streamlined, modern interface
Choose Cross Country If:
- ✅ You want maximum pay potential
- ✅ You prefer more contract options
- ✅ You want comprehensive benefits
- ✅ You prefer traditional recruiter support
- ✅ You want one of the largest contract networks
- ✅ You value established, proven systems
Real-World Example: 13-Week Assignment
Pay Comparison Example
Scenario: Travel nurse with 4 years experience, assignment in California.
| Factor | Trusted Health | Cross Country |
|---|---|---|
| Taxable Hourly Rate | $52/hr | $58/hr |
| Weekly Taxable Income | $1,872 (36 hrs) | $2,088 (36 hrs) |
| Housing Stipend | $1,200/week | $1,400/week |
| Meal Stipend | $400/week | $500/week |
| Total Weekly Pay | $3,472 | $3,988 |
| Blended Hourly Rate | $96.44/hr | $110.78/hr |
| 13-Week Total | $45,136 | $51,844 |
| Difference | Cross Country pays $6,708 more over 13 weeks | |
Key Takeaway: Cross Country typically offers $5,000-7,000 more over a 13-week assignment for experienced travelers. However, Trusted Health's tech-forward approach and convenience may be worth it if you prefer app-based job management.
Bottom Line: Trusted Health vs. Cross Country
Final Recommendation
Cross Country offers higher pay and more contracts, while Trusted Health provides a modern tech experience with app-based convenience.
- Choose Trusted Health if: You prefer app-based job searching, value modern technology, and want a streamlined digital experience. Better for tech-savvy nurses who prefer self-service.
- Choose Cross Country if: You want maximum pay potential, comprehensive benefits, and access to one of the largest contract networks. Better for nurses who want options and traditional support.
Important: Always compare multiple agency offers before accepting a contract. Pay rates vary significantly by location, facility, and contract terms. Use our Travel Nurse Pay Calculator to compare offers and see your true take-home pay.
Next Steps: Compare Your Options
Calculate Your Potential Earnings
Use our Travel Nurse Pay Calculator to compare your potential earnings with typical rates from each agency. Factor in your specialty, desired location, and whether you value tech convenience vs. maximum pay and contract volume.
Related Resources:
- Compare Contracts Tool - Side-by-side contract comparison
- State Pay Guides - See pay rates by state
- Contract Negotiation Guide - Learn how to negotiate better pay
- Agency Margins Explained - Understand how agencies structure pay
Related Articles:
- Aya vs. TNAA: Which Travel Nurse Agency Pays More?
- Fastaff vs. American Traveler: Travel Nurse Agency Comparison
- How to Negotiate Travel Nurse Contracts
- Understanding Travel Nurse Agency Margins
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