The Top Five Paying States for Travel Respiratory Therapists in 2026
Looking for your next travel respiratory therapist assignment? The highest paying state for travel respiratory therapists offers opportunities exceeding $2,500 per week*. Explore the top five paying states for travel respiratory therapists and discover where respiratory care professionals can maximize their earning potential.
How We Ranked These States
The rankings below are based on average weekly gross pay for travel respiratory therapist assignments booked through AMN Healthcare. Pay packages may vary based on facility, location, experience level, shift requirements, and other assignment-specific factors.
1. New York
New York earned the top spot among the highest-paying states for travel respiratory therapists this quarter.
Healthcare systems throughout the state continue to rely on respiratory care professionals to help meet ongoing patient care needs.
2. North Carolina
North Carolina ranked second thanks to continued demand for respiratory therapists across a variety of healthcare settings. The state's healthcare facilities frequently seek qualified travel clinicians to support staffing needs.
3. Virginia
Virginia secured a place among the highest-paying states due to ongoing demand for respiratory therapy professionals. Travelers can find opportunities across hospitals, specialty care facilities, and healthcare systems throughout the state.
4. Massachusetts
Massachusetts continues to be a competitive market for travel respiratory therapists. Strong healthcare networks and ongoing staffing needs help create opportunities for respiratory care professionals seeking travel assignments.
5. Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania rounds out this quarter's top five list. Healthcare facilities throughout the state continue to utilize travel clinicians to help support patient care and staffing needs.
Why Do Some States Pay More for Travel Respiratory Therapists?
Travel healthcare compensation is influenced by staffing demand, workforce shortages, healthcare infrastructure, and competition among facilities seeking qualified professionals. States experiencing greater demand for respiratory care services may offer more competitive compensation packages.
What Can Impact a Travel Respiratory Therapist's Pay?
A number of factors impact the wages for Travel Respiratory Therapists, but the most common include:
- Experience level
- Certifications and credentials
- Shift requirements
- Facility type
- Contract duration
- Geographic location
- Housing and per diem benefits
- Market demand
Explore Travel Respiratory Therapist Jobs with AMN Healthcare
Whether you're interested in expanding your clinical experience, earning more, or exploring a new destination, AMN Healthcare can help connect you with travel respiratory therapist opportunities nationwide.
*Estimate of weekly payments is intended for informational purposes and includes hourly wages, as well as reimbursements for meal & incidental expenses and housing expenses incurred on behalf of the Company. Please speak with a recruiter for additional details.
