Per-diem nursing has become an increasingly popular option for nurses who value flexibility and control over their schedules. As a per-diem nurse, you have the freedom to choose which shifts you work, as well as the ability to explore different facilities and specialties.

But one question many nurses have is whether per-diem nursing pays more than traditional nursing positions. In this post, we’ll explore the factors that can influence per-diem nursing pay, compare it to other nursing positions, and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this type of work. 

Factors that Influence Per-Diem Nursing Pay

There are several factors that can affect per-diem nursing pay, including experience, credentials, location, and facility type. For example, nurses with more experience or specialized certifications may be able to command higher pay rates.

Location can also play a role, with per-diem nurses in urban areas potentially earning more than those in rural locations. Additionally, certain types of facilities, such as hospitals or nursing homes, may offer higher pay rates than others.

It’s important to note that per-diem nursing pay can also vary based on the specific staffing agency or facility you work with. Some agencies may offer higher pay rates in order to attract more nurses, while others may offer other perks, such as sign-on bonuses or flexible scheduling.

Overall, while per-diem nursing can offer the potential for higher pay, it’s important to keep in mind that pay rates can vary widely based on a number of factors. Nurses considering per-diem work should do their research and evaluate pay rates carefully to ensure they are getting fair compensation for their skills and experience.

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Comparison of Per-Diem Nursing Pay to Traditional Nursing Positions

When it comes to nursing pay, per-diem positions can offer some advantages over traditional nursing positions, but also some potential drawbacks.

On the one hand, per-diem nurses often have the potential to earn more per hour than traditional nurses, particularly if they have in-demand skills or certifications. They may also be able to work more or fewer hours as needed, providing more flexibility and control over their schedules.

Additionally, per-diem nurses may be able to explore different facilities and specialties, gaining valuable experience and networking opportunities.

On the other hand, per-diem nurses typically don’t receive benefits like health insurance, paid time off, or retirement plans. They may also need to purchase their own liability insurance and may be liable for self-employment tax if they are paid as a 1099 contractor. In contrast, traditional nursing positions often come with more stable, predictable pay and benefits packages.

At ReadyShift Staffing, all our nurses are hired as W2 employees, which means they are our employees and we pay all the employer taxes associated with hiring an employee. As W2 employees, our nurses are also covered under our liability insurance, so they don’t have to secure (and pay for) their own.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Per-Diem Nursing

As we’ve discussed, per-diem nursing can offer some potential advantages over traditional nursing positions, but it also comes with its own unique set of challenges.

Advantages:

• Flexibility: Per-diem nursing offers greater control over your schedule, allowing you to work more or fewer hours as needed. This can be particularly beneficial if you have other commitments, such as caring for family members or pursuing further education.
• Higher pay potential: Per-diem nurses may be able to earn more per hour than traditional nurses, particularly if they have in-demand skills or certifications. This can be especially helpful for nurses looking to boost their income or pay off debt.
• Variety: Per-diem nursing allows you to work in a variety of facilities and specialties, gaining valuable experience and networking opportunities.
• Autonomy: Per-diem nursing can offer greater independence and autonomy than traditional nursing positions, as you may be able to work more independently and with less direct supervision.

Disadvantages:

• Lack of benefits: Per-diem nurses typically don’t receive benefits like health insurance, paid time off, or retirement plans. This can make it more difficult to plan for the future or handle unexpected expenses.
• Inconsistent work environment: Because per-diem nurses work in different facilities and specialties, they may need to adjust to different work environments and expectations more frequently than traditional nurses. The variety, however, can also be a significant advantage to those who enjoy new experiences.
• Less stability: While there is no shortage of per-diem nursing shifts, per-diem nurses do have to be proactive about securing shifts. Finding a great staffing agency to work with can be invaluable in ensuring per-diem nurses receive a steady stream of relevant shifts.

Overall, while per-diem nursing can offer some significant advantages, it’s important to carefully weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. Nurses should consider their own goals, financial needs, and work preferences to determine whether per-diem nursing is the right fit for them

So, do per-diem nurses make more money than traditional nurses? The answer, as we’ve seen, is that it depends. Per-diem nurses definitely have the potential to earn more per hour than traditional nurses, but this may not be the right career path for nurses who need a very routine schedule.

Ultimately, the decision to pursue per-diem nursing work should be based on a careful evaluation of the individual nurse’s goals, preferences, and financial needs. For some nurses, the flexibility and autonomy of per-diem work may make it the ideal choice, while for others, the stability and benefits of traditional nursing positions may be a better fit.

Regardless of which path nurses choose, it’s important to remember that their skills and expertise are incredibly valuable. Per-diem nurses play a critical role in providing high-quality care to patients in a variety of settings, and their contributions should be recognized and valued accordingly.