Is Travel Social Work Dead? Why the Field is Still Thriving in 2025

Ding! A new assignment match available!

During my time of unemployment, I’ve received this notification every single day. The truth? Travel social work is far from dead. There are countless agencies helping social workers start or continue their travel careers — and plenty of assignments still available across the country.

I didn’t plan to step away from travel social work so suddenly (to be fair, I’m still open to accepting local contracts until I secure a permanent role). It just kind of happened. I mentioned in another post how much I’ve enjoyed being home with my husband and making plans for our future. I love the way I feel when I’m home with him — we’re newlyweds, and I’m fully in my wifey era! For that reason, I’ve decided to hang up my badge and focus on local contracts for now.

In my eBook, I share everything you need to know about how to become a travel social worker — from choosing the right agency to preparing for your first assignment. It’s packed with the lessons I wish I knew before starting my travel journey. I’ve worked with Aya Healthcare for over three and a half years and recently connected with a recruiter at Medovent Solutions. With their permission, I’m happy to share their contact information if you meet the qualifications. Just remember to always verify that any agency you work with is legitimate before sending over personal information.

While the field is alive and well, I will say that travel social work pay rates are decreasing and the market is becoming more saturated; which can make it harder to get assignments. I started traveling about a year after the pandemic began, when rates were still high. Now, they’ve dropped significantly. As I’ve mentioned before, travel social workers earn premium wages — so while the current rates may feel low for seasoned travelers like me, they can still be attractive to newer social workers. This shift happens because many new travelers are willing to accept lower rates, driving the market down. Of course, LCSW roles usually pay more, but this trend is something to keep in mind. Additionally, with the market becoming more saturated there may be periods you do not have another role lined up before your current assignment ends; which is also something to consider.

Despite the changes, travel social work remains an incredible opportunity to grow, explore, and make an impact. It’s a fun, unpredictable, and deeply rewarding experience that I think every social worker should try at least once in their career. I’m not saying I’ll never return, but right now, I’m searching for my happy place — a role that offers stability, longevity, and consistent support.

Have you tried travel social work? I’d love to hear your experience in the comments!And don’t forget to subscribe to my blog to stay updated on all things social work, career, and lifestyle.

Sincerely, SC

 Ready to start your career as a travel social worker?

The Travel Social Worker's Guide to Success

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