Locum Tenens vs. Permanent Positions: Which Is Right for You?

Locum tenens and permanent employment each offer distinct advantages. Locum tenens provides higher hourly pay, scheduling flexibility, and career variety—but less job security and benefits. Permanent positions offer stability, benefits packages, and career progression—but less flexibility and lower hourly rates. This guide compares both models across compensation, benefits, flexibility, career progression, and lifestyle factors to help you decide which is right for your situation.

Compensation Comparison

Locum Tenens: $150–$350/hour (physician), often yielding higher annual income when accounting for all assignments.

Permanent: $120k–$250k annual salary (physician), plus benefits package (estimate 15–20% additional value).

Flexibility & Lifestyle

Locum tenens dominates here: choose shifts, locations, assignment duration. Permanent positions offer structured but limited flexibility.

When to Choose Each

Locum Tenens: Career exploration, avoiding burnout, student loan payoff, travel, or specific life circumstances.

Permanent: Career stability, long-term institutional building, or seeking traditional benefits and retirement planning.