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Travel Nursing in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania hosts some of the most prestigious medical institutions in the country. The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP), Penn Medicine, and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital anchor Philadelphia's healthcare market. UPMC (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center) dominates western Pennsylvania and is one of the largest healthcare systems in the nation. These institutions create substantial year-round demand for travel nurses in high-acuity specialties.
Pennsylvania joined the Nurse Licensure Compact, simplifying access for compact license holders. The state offers diverse experiences from Philadelphia's historic culture and food scene to Pittsburgh's revitalized tech-and-medical economy, plus rural communities in between. The cost of living is moderate, with Pittsburgh offering especially strong value.
Quick Stats
Agencies
65+
Avg Weekly Pay
$2,400-$3,600/wk
Compact License
Yes
Pennsylvania is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). Nurses with a multistate compact license can practice in PA immediately.
Top Cities
PhiladelphiaPittsburghAllentownHarrisburgLancaster
Top Agencies for Pennsylvania
These agencies are known for strong Pennsylvania assignment inventories, competitive pay, and solid recruiter support.
Licensing Information
Pennsylvania participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). Compact license holders can practice immediately. Non-compact nurses must apply through the Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing.
Processing Time: Endorsement applications typically take 6 to 10 weeks.
Tips for a Smooth Application
- PA recently joined the NLC; verify implementation.
- Non-compact applicants should plan extra time.
- Criminal background check is required.
- Penn Medicine and UPMC assignments are highly competitive.
Popular Cities in Pennsylvania
Philadelphia
Penn Medicine (HUP), Thomas Jefferson, and Temple University Hospital anchor one of America's premier healthcare markets. The city offers world-class dining, history, and culture at moderate cost.
Pittsburgh
UPMC operates one of the largest health systems in the nation with multiple hospitals across the metro. Pittsburgh offers exceptional value with affordable housing, a revitalized tech economy, and a passionate sports culture.
Allentown
Lehigh Valley Health Network operates the Lehigh Valley's largest health system. The area offers moderate housing costs between Philadelphia and the Poconos.
Harrisburg
Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Pinnacle serve the state capital. Very affordable housing and central PA location.
Lancaster
Penn Medicine Lancaster General Hospital serves this charming city in Pennsylvania Dutch Country. The area offers affordable living and a unique cultural experience.
Popular Specialties in Pennsylvania
ICU
Penn Medicine and UPMC maintain world-class ICUs with complex patients driving premium travel nurse demand.
ER
Philadelphia's busy trauma centers and Pittsburgh's ER volumes create consistent emergency nurse demand.
OR
Major surgical programs at HUP and UPMC drive strong OR demand.
Telemetry
Pennsylvania's aging population drives telemetry demand across the state's hospital systems.
Housing Notes
Philadelphia averages $1,300-$1,700/month. Pittsburgh is very affordable at $900-$1,300. Allentown and Harrisburg are $1,000-$1,400. Agency stipends of $1,600-$2,200/week cover most areas.
Nursing Schools in Pennsylvania
Top nursing programs for those looking to build or advance their career.
Villanova University M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing
Villanova, PA
BSNMSNDNPPhD
AccreditedOnline
Average Pay by Specialty
Weekly gross pay ranges for travel nurses in Pennsylvania, based on current market data.
| Specialty | Weekly Pay Range |
|---|---|
| ICU | $2,800-$3,800/wk |
| ER | $2,600-$3,600/wk |
| OR | $2,700-$3,700/wk |
| Med Surg | $2,200-$3,000/wk |
| Telemetry | $2,400-$3,200/wk |
| L&D | $2,500-$3,400/wk |
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Pennsylvania has joined the Nurse Licensure Compact.
Penn Medicine and UPMC are among the most prestigious systems in the country. PA offers world-class clinical experience in both Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.
Yes. Pittsburgh is one of the most affordable major metros in the country, with excellent healthcare facilities and a strong quality of life.
Yes. PA has a flat income tax of 3.07%, one of the lowest in states with an income tax.
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