Why Nursing Pay Rates Have Decreased Over the Past Two Years and How ATC West Healthcare Can Help You Navigate the Change
In the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, nursing rates, especially for travel and crisis response nurses, skyrocketed.
Hospitals were in desperate need of staff, and healthcare professionals were on the front lines, often working in high-risk environments under extreme pressure.
Now, two years later, many nurses are noticing something different: rates are down.
If you’ve recently taken a new assignment or shopped around for contracts, you may have seen lower hourly pay or fewer high-paying travel roles than before. So what’s causing this shift?
Let’s break it down and explore how can help you adapt and thrive, even in a changing market.
Why Have Nursing Rates Decreased?
1.
During the peak of the pandemic, hospitals received emergency federal funding and hazard pay incentives to support rapid staffing needs. This allowed them to offer premium rates, sometimes $5,000 per week or more, to travel and crisis nurses.
Now that the public health emergency has officially ended, those emergency funds are no longer available. As a result, hospitals have returned to more typical budgeting, reducing demand for ultra-high-paying contracts.
2.
In 2020 and 2021, many full-time nurses transitioned into travel roles for higher pay and flexibility. But as the market cooled, more nurses began competing for a smaller pool of assignments. With more candidates available, hospitals and agencies no longer need to offer inflated rates to attract talent.
3.
To cut costs, many health systems have worked to rebuild their internal float pools and reduce reliance on external travelers. In some cases, they’re offering incentives to bring nurses back into permanent or per diem positions, which can drive travel demand, and rates, down.
4.
Hospitals and facilities have seen more predictable patient volumes compared to the pandemic surge years. While nursing shortages still exist in many regions, the immediate crisis-level demand has eased, leading to fewer emergency contracts and lower “crisis pay.”
5.
Nursing rates also vary depending on location, specialty, and season. For instance, California has historically offered higher rates due to staffing ratios and cost of living, but even in high-paying states, we’ve seen some correction as the market stabilizes.
How ATC West Healthcare Helps You Succeed—Even in a Lower Rate Market
While overall rates have dropped from pandemic highs, continues to support clinicians in finding opportunities that are .
Here’s how we help:
✅ We Focus on Strategic Job Matching
Our recruiters work closely with you to match you to contracts that make the most sense for your experience, location preferences, and lifestyle. We keep your earning potential top of mind.
✅ We Offer Per Diem, Travel, and Local Contracts
Want the flexibility of per diem work? Looking to stay local but earn more? Need a travel contract with housing included? ATC West gives you access to a variety of assignments across California and beyond, so you can stay in control of your schedule and your paycheck.
✅ Transparent Pay and Honest Communication
We’re upfront about rates, benefits, and expectations so you’re never in the dark. Even when market rates shift, we advocate for fair compensation and keep you informed every step of the way.
✅ You’re More Than Just a Number to Us
ATC West is more than just a staffing agency. We build long-term relationships with our clinicians and treat you like a partner, not just a placement. Your career growth and well-being matter to us.
Tips for Maximizing Your Earnings in Today’s Market
Even in a cooler job market, there are smart ways to stay competitive and boost your earnings:
Final Thoughts
Yes, nursing rates have come down since the height of the pandemic but you still have options, opportunities, and earning potential.
At , we help you navigate the evolving landscape with confidence. Whether you’re a new graduate, seasoned RN, physician, or allied health professional, our team is here to connect you with rewarding jobs that fit your needs, even in a changing market.
