How Much Does Temporary Staffing Cost?

This guide covers typical temporary staffing rates, the factors that change them, and practical ways to compare quotes.

$20 - $55 per hourtypical range
Businesses typically pay $20 - $55 per hour for temporary staffing, with the worker's wages and agency markup included. A short, entry-level administrative assignment may run $20 - $30 per hour, while specialized or urgent technical staffing can cost $45 - $80 or more.
Updated Sep 2026

Common jobs and what they cost

JobWhat it involvesTypical range
Entry-level office or warehouse workerGeneral support and routine tasks$20 - $30 per hour
Skilled administrative or trade workerExperienced role-specific support$30 - $55 per hour
Specialized or urgent professionalTechnical expertise or fast placement$55 - $100+ per hour

Ranges are typical, not quotes - the price for your job depends on scope and location, so always confirm with the provider.

What moves the price

Rates depend on the role, required experience, credentials, shift, assignment length, and local labor market. Healthcare, skilled trades, technology, and other specialized positions usually cost more than general clerical or warehouse work.

Short-notice coverage, nights, weekends, overtime, hazardous conditions, and difficult-to-fill locations can raise the bill rate. Longer assignments may receive lower markups, while payroll taxes, workers' compensation, screening, and conversion fees may be billed separately.

How to keep the cost down

Define the schedule, duties, required skills, and expected assignment length before requesting quotes. Ask for an itemized bill rate, overtime rules, replacement policy, and any conversion or administrative fees.

Compare several agencies and consider a longer commitment if the staffing need is predictable. Collecting quotes through Reedleys means every number comes from a real, checked listing.

Price questions, answered

Do temporary staffing agencies require a deposit?

Often they do not, but some agencies request a deposit or prepayment from new clients. Terms depend on credit checks, assignment length, and the type of workers supplied.

Why do staffing quotes differ for the same job?

Agencies may use different wage levels, markups, benefits, screening standards, and replacement guarantees. The quote may also reflect how quickly the worker must start.

Are overtime and payroll charges included?

Payroll taxes and workers' compensation are commonly built into the bill rate, but overtime, holiday premiums, onboarding, and conversion fees may be separate. Confirm each item in writing.

Recognized Temporary Staffing businesses

FlexForce Houston

A Gulf Coast recruitment firm offering customized staffing solutions for employers and job seekers across multiple industries.

Professional Services Houston, United States
Accountants For You

Staffing agency placing accounting and finance professionals in temporary, project, temp-to-hire, and direct-hire roles.

Professional Services Philadelphia, United States
InstaStaff, LLC

San Antonio employment agency connecting companies with talent through direct-hire and temporary job placement.

Professional Services San Antonio, United States
Vighter LLC

Healthcare staffing and medical support services for government and commercial clients in San Antonio and overseas.

Professional Services San Antonio, United States
LeadingEdge Personnel

Staffing agency offering temporary, temp-to-hire, and direct-hire placements in San Antonio.

Professional Services San Antonio, United States
TriStaff Group of Companies

San Diego staffing agency offering contract staffing, direct-hire recruiting, and employer of record services.

Professional Services San Diego, United States
The CSI Companies

Healthcare IT consulting and staffing firm serving health organizations from Jacksonville.

Professional Services Jacksonville, United States
Smith Personnel Solutions - Ft. Worth

A Fort Worth staffing business offering personnel solutions for companies and job seekers.

Professional Services Fort Worth, United States
BG Multifamily

Staffing agency connecting multifamily and commercial property operators with qualified professionals.

Professional Services Fort Worth, United States
Controller's Group

A finance and accounting recruiting agency serving professionals and employers in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Professional Services San Jose, United States
See all Temporary Staffing businesses →