Overview
Shift Rate Intelligence is a LAL Pro feature that helps you understand whether a shift is priced fairly.
When you open a shift, you’ll see how its hourly rate compares to real, data-backed market averages in your area.
This guide explains how the comparison works, how to access it, and what free users will see.
Video Walkthrough
This video covers:
Where to find Market Rate Guidance
The difference between Free and LAL Pro views
How Market Rate Guidance is calculated
What Shift Rate Intelligence Shows You
On every shift you open (as a LAL Pro user), you’ll see a comparison with the Market Rate.
These comparisons are based on live data including:
Location
Shift type
Time of day
Recent shifts posted nearby
This helps you decide quickly if a shift offers good value.
How to Access Market Rate Guidance
Open the Search tab or your job feed.
Tap any shift to open the Shift Details page.
Scroll slightly to the Market Rate Trends section.
Tap How is this calculated? to understand the data behind the comparison.
What Free Users See
If you're using the free version of Locate a Locum, you will not see the market rate comparison.
Instead, you’ll see an option to upgrade to LAL Pro to unlock Market Rate Intelligence.
Upgrading lets you instantly compare every shift against the market so you can make confident booking decisions.
What “How is this calculated?” Explains
When you open the explanation link, you’ll see details about:
The data sources used
How recent shifts inform the market rate
How shifts are filtered based on job type, location, and date
How the app determines whether a rate is above, below, or in line with the market
This provides full transparency into how the comparison is generated.
Common Questions Locums Ask
Why don’t I see the market rate comparison?
This feature is only available to LAL Pro users.
Free users will see an upgrade option instead.
Is the market rate personalised to my area?
Yes. It is generated using nearby shifts and updated regularly based on supply and demand.
Is Market Rate Guidance available for all shifts?
Market Rate Guidance is only shown when enough local data is available to make an accurate comparison. If there isn’t sufficient data for that type of shift, the market rate will not be displayed.
Does the comparison change throughout the day?
It can. Market rates update as new shifts are posted and filled.
Does this guarantee the rate is fair or final?
No — it provides a data-backed guide, but companies control final pay rates.
Key Takeaways
Quickly see if a shift is above, below, or in line with market rates
Uses real, live data from nearby shifts
Helps you make smarter booking decisions