California vs Arizona: Travel Nurse Pay Comparison
Compare travel nurse pay, taxes, stipends, and cost of living between California and Arizona. Based on our analysis, California offers better overall take-home pay.
Last updated: February 21, 2026
Our Recommendation
California
Offers approximately $229/week more in discretionary income
Higher Pay
CA
Better Taxes
AZ
Lower COL
AZ
Higher Stipends
CA
Best Net Income
CA
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | California | Arizona | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Hourly Rate | $55/hr | $48/hr | CA |
| Weekly Gross (incl. stipends) | $3,768 | $3,019 | CA |
| State Income Tax | 13.3% | 2.5% | AZ |
| Est. Weekly Net Pay | $2,947 | $2,510 | CA |
| Cost of Living Index | 151.7 | 97.2 | AZ |
| Average 1BR Rent | $2,100/mo | $1,200/mo | AZ |
| Weekly Housing Stipend (GSA) | $1,050 | $686 | CA |
| Compact License State | No | Yes | — |
| Est. Weekly Discretionary Income | $2,462 | $2,233 | CA |
California Overview
Pay: California offers $55/hr average with $3,768/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: 13.3% state income tax, making it less tax-friendly.
Cost of Living: Index of 151.7 with average rent of $2,100/mo.
Licensing: Requires separate license, $350 fee, 4-6 weeks.
Arizona Overview
Pay: Arizona offers $48/hr average with $3,019/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: 2.5% state income tax, 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.
Ready to Calculate Your Exact Pay?
Use our pay calculator with your specific contract details for both states.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which state pays travel nurses more: California or Arizona?
California offers higher gross pay at $55/hr compared to $48/hr. However, California provides better take-home pay after taxes and cost of living adjustments.
Is California or Arizona better for travel nurse taxes?
Arizona is more tax-friendly with a 2.5% state tax. California has a 13.3% state tax.
What is the cost of living difference between California and Arizona?
California has a COL index of 151.7 while Arizona is 97.2. Average 1BR rent: California $2100/mo vs Arizona $1200/mo. Arizona is more affordable overall.
Which state has higher GSA stipend rates?
California offers higher tax-free stipends at $1,568/week compared to $1,099/week in Arizona.
Should I take a travel nurse assignment in California or Arizona?
Based on our analysis, California offers approximately $229 more in weekly discretionary income after housing. However, consider factors like licensing (California requires separate license, Arizona is compact), job availability, and personal preferences.