California vs Florida: Travel Nurse Pay Comparison
Compare travel nurse pay, taxes, stipends, and cost of living between California and Florida. Based on our analysis, California offers better overall take-home pay.
Last updated: February 21, 2026
Our Recommendation
California
Offers approximately $79/week more in discretionary income
Higher Pay
CA
Better Taxes
FL
Lower COL
FL
Higher Stipends
CA
Best Net Income
CA
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | California | Florida | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Hourly Rate | $55/hr | $51/hr | CA |
| Weekly Gross (incl. stipends) | $3,768 | $3,124 | CA |
| State Income Tax | 13.3% | None | FL |
| Est. Weekly Net Pay | $2,947 | $2,683 | CA |
| Cost of Living Index | 151.7 | 100.7 | FL |
| Average 1BR Rent | $2,100/mo | $1,300/mo | FL |
| Weekly Housing Stipend (GSA) | $1,050 | $840 | CA |
| Compact License State | No | Yes | — |
| Est. Weekly Discretionary Income | $2,462 | $2,383 | 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.
Florida Overview
Pay: Florida offers $51/hr average with $3,124/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: No state income tax, making it tax-friendly.
Cost of Living: Index of 100.7 with average rent of $1,300/mo.
Licensing: Compact state (eNLC), $200 fee, 2-4 weeks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which state pays travel nurses more: California or Florida?
California offers higher gross pay at $55/hr compared to $51/hr. However, California provides better take-home pay after taxes and cost of living adjustments.
Is California or Florida better for travel nurse taxes?
Florida is more tax-friendly with no state income tax. California has a 13.3% state tax.
What is the cost of living difference between California and Florida?
California has a COL index of 151.7 while Florida is 100.7. Average 1BR rent: California $2100/mo vs Florida $1300/mo. Florida is more affordable overall.
Which state has higher GSA stipend rates?
California offers higher tax-free stipends at $1,568/week compared to $1,288/week in Florida.
Should I take a travel nurse assignment in California or Florida?
Based on our analysis, California offers approximately $79 more in weekly discretionary income after housing. However, consider factors like licensing (California requires separate license, Florida is compact), job availability, and personal preferences.