Travel Nursing · Pay Calculator
ICU Travel Nurses Pay Calculator — 2026
ICU travel nurses (Critical Care RNs) command some of the highest travel packages in nursing — typically $2,200–$3,200/week total. High acuity, 1:2 nurse-to-patient ratios, and chronic nationwide shortage keep demand consistently high.
Typical weekly package
$2,518–$4,130
Taxable hourly rate
$38–$55/hr
Housing stipend
$900–$1800/wk
Demand
Very High
Your true take-home breakdown
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ICU Travel Nurses: Pay, Demand & What to Expect
Typical pay breakdown
ICU Travel Nurses travel contracts typically include a taxable hourly rate of $38–$55/hour (W-2 wages), plus tax-free housing stipends of $900–$1800/week and M&IE stipends of $250–$350/week. The total package ranges from $2,518–$4,130/week before taxes.
The tax-free stipends are the key to travel nursing's earning power. Because housing and M&IE stipends are not subject to federal income tax or FICA (when IRS and GSA rules are met), your effective take-home pay is significantly higher than a staff nurse earning a similar gross salary. The calculator above shows your exact after-tax take-home based on your specific contract details.
Hot markets
The highest-paying icu travel nurses contracts are currently concentrated in: California, New York, Texas, Florida, Washington. Pay varies significantly by state — California contracts are often 20–40% higher than the national average due to mandatory nurse-to-patient ratios and high cost of living.
Strategy tip
ICU travelers with CCRN certification routinely negotiate $3–$5 more per hour above base rate. If you don't have it yet, the AACN CCRN exam is worth prioritizing — it directly increases your earning ceiling on every contract.
Tax-free stipend eligibility
To receive housing and M&IE stipends tax-free, you must maintain a bona fide tax home — a permanent residence you return to and have ongoing costs for (rent, mortgage, utilities). The IRS considers whether you are duplicating living expenses away from home. Working in your home metro for more than 12 months may disqualify your stipends. The calculator's GSA compliance and tax-home risk sections flag these scenarios automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do ICU travel nurses make per week?
ICU travel nurses typically earn $2,200–$3,200/week in total compensation (taxable W-2 wages plus tax-free housing and M&IE stipends). In high-cost markets like California or New York City, packages regularly exceed $3,500/week. The taxable hourly rate is typically $38–$55, with housing stipends of $900–$1,800/week depending on the market.
Do ICU travel nurses need CCRN certification?
CCRN is not universally required but strongly preferred by most facilities and commands higher pay. Many ICU travel contracts require at least 1–2 years of recent critical care experience. CCRN-certified travelers typically earn $3–$5/hour more and have access to higher-acuity facilities with better packages.
What ICU specializations get the highest travel pay?
Cardiac ICU (CVICU), neuro ICU, and trauma ICU positions typically pay the most due to acuity and credential requirements. CVICU travelers with open-heart and IABP experience often command the top of the pay range ($50–$55+ taxable per hour). MICU and SICU are more widely available but still well-compensated.
Other travel nurse specialties
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