Reading a Travel Nurse Pay Package - Wages vs Stipends

Last updated: July 2026

Travel packages usually split taxable wages from housing and meal stipends. The weekly number on the flyer is a blend — useful for planning, not a W-2 forecast.

Break the week

Start with the travel nurse pay calculator or the week-focused weekly pay tool. Split housing and meals on the stipend calculator / housing stipend pages.

Compare apples

Turn the package into an effective $/hr with the blended rate calculator, or stack staff vs travel on the staff vs travel tool. Contract line items also map to contract pay breakdown.

What this guide is not

Not tax advice on stipend eligibility, GSA limits, or agency contract law. Estimates stay in your browser — see methodology.

Content last updated: July 2026. Sources & methodology

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