Arizona vs Nevada: Travel Nurse Pay Comparison
Compare travel nurse pay, taxes, stipends, and cost of living between Arizona and Nevada. Based on our analysis, Arizona offers more gross discretionary income after rent.
Last updated: October 14, 2026
Our Recommendation
Arizona
Offers approximately $286/week more in gross discretionary income (before state tax)
Higher Pay
NV
Better Taxes
NV
Lower COL
AZ
Higher Stipends
AZ
Best Discretionary Income
AZ
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Arizona | Nevada | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Hourly Rate | $48/hr | $50/hr | NV |
| Weekly Gross (incl. stipends) | $4,146 | $3,883 | AZ |
| State Income Tax | Applies | None | NV |
| Cost of Living Index | 97.2 | 101.6 | AZ |
| Average 1BR Rent | $1,200/mo | $1,300/mo | AZ |
| Weekly Housing Stipend (GSA) | $1,624 | $1,281 | AZ |
| Compact License State | Yes | Yes | — |
| Est. Weekly Discretionary Income (gross, pre-tax) | $3,869 | $3,583 | AZ |
Arizona Overview
Pay: Arizona offers $48/hr average with $4,146/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: State income tax applies, making it tax-friendly.
Cost of Living: Index of 97.2 with average rent of $1,200/mo.
Licensing: Compact state (eNLC), $300 fee, 2-4 weeks.
Nevada Overview
Pay: Nevada offers $50/hr average with $3,883/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: No state income tax, making it tax-friendly.
Cost of Living: Index of 101.6 with average rent of $1,300/mo.
Licensing: Compact state (eNLC), $300 fee, 2-4 weeks.
Ready to Calculate Your Exact Pay?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which state pays travel nurses more: Arizona or Nevada?
Nevada offers higher gross pay at $50/hr compared to $48/hr. However, Arizona offers more gross discretionary income once rent is factored in — run both through the tax calculator for your actual after-tax comparison.
Is Arizona or Nevada better for travel nurse taxes?
Nevada is more tax-friendly — it has no state income tax, while Arizona does levy one (we don't publish a specific rate; check its official tax tables or your own known rate in the calculator).
What is the cost of living difference between Arizona and Nevada?
Arizona has a COL index of 97.2 while Nevada is 101.6. Average 1BR rent: Arizona $1200/mo vs Nevada $1300/mo. Arizona is more affordable overall.
Which state has higher GSA stipend rates?
Arizona offers higher tax-free stipends at $2,226/week compared to $1,883/week in Nevada.
Should I take a travel nurse assignment in Arizona or Nevada?
Based on our analysis, Arizona offers approximately $286 more in weekly gross discretionary income after housing (before state tax). However, consider factors like licensing (Arizona is compact, Nevada is compact), job availability, and personal preferences.