Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about travel therapy pay answered.
How much do travel therapists make?
It depends on discipline, setting, location, and agency; current medians from live contracts are on the ProTherapy pay index. PTs in high-demand settings like home health or outpatient ortho often earn more. The tax-free stipend structure means take-home pay is significantly higher than a permanent position at the same total compensation. See salary data by state →
What's in a travel therapy pay package?
A taxable hourly wage, non-taxable housing stipend (based on GSA lodging rates), non-taxable M&IE stipend ($68–$92/day (FY2027)), travel reimbursement, and benefits. Every component should be provided in writing before you sign. See the full breakdown →
Can I negotiate my pay package?
Yes, and most experienced travelers do. Work with multiple agencies to create competing offers, know the GSA rates for your area, and ask specific questions about each component. The hourly rate, stipend structure, bonuses, and non-monetary benefits are all commonly negotiated. Negotiation strategies →
Why can two agencies pay differently for the same job?
Each agency keeps part of what the facility pays to cover its own costs and margin, and that share differs from agency to agency. The difference shows up when you compare written offers for the same job.
Should I compare blended rates between agencies?
No. Blended rates combine taxable and non-taxable components into one misleading number. Always compare full pay package breakdowns in writing. A "lower" blended rate with more stipends can mean higher take-home pay than a "higher" blended rate that's mostly taxable.
What if my recruiter won't show me the full breakdown?
That's one of the biggest red flags in travel therapy. Transparent agencies provide every line item proactively because they have nothing to hide. If a recruiter gets evasive about pay structure, it usually means the margins aren't in your favor. Find a different recruiter or agency. See recruiter red flags →