Updated 27 March 2026
Travel Respiratory Therapist Salary
Travel RTs earn $1,800-$2,800/week including tax-free stipends. That is $93K-$145K annualised, 40-80% more than staff positions.
Weekly Pay Breakdown
| Component | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Taxable hourly rate | $28-$42/hr | Base hourly rate, taxed normally |
| Housing stipend | $700-$1,400/week | Tax-free if you maintain a tax home |
| Meals & incidentals | $200-$400/week | Tax-free per diem (GSA rates) |
| Travel reimbursement | $500-$800 per assignment | One-time per 13-week contract |
| Overtime | 1.5x base rate | After 40 hours/week in most states |
| Crisis/rapid response bonus | +$10-$25/hr | During shortages or emergencies |
Top Travel RT Agencies
Aya Healthcare
Largest RT travel agency
Most assignments, good benefits
Cross Country Allied
Wide geographic coverage
Strong in rural assignments
Med Travelers
AMN Healthcare subsidiary
Good for first-time travelers
CompHealth
Allied health focus
Higher pay, fewer assignments
Fusion Medical
RT specialist
RT-specific recruiter teams
Requirements
- -RRT credential (Registered Respiratory Therapist)
- -Active state license (most agencies help with multi-state licensing)
- -Minimum 1-2 years acute care experience (ICU preferred)
- -BLS and ACLS certifications current
- -Willingness to relocate every 13 weeks
- -Maintain a "tax home" for stipend eligibility
The tax home rule is critical.
To receive tax-free stipends, you must maintain a permanent residence (your "tax home") that you pay for even while on assignment. If the IRS determines you are an "itinerant worker" with no tax home, your stipends become fully taxable, which can cost $15,000-$25,000/year in additional taxes.