California vs Texas: Travel Nurse Pay Comparison
Compare travel nurse pay, taxes, stipends, and cost of living between California and Texas. Based on our analysis, California offers more gross discretionary income after rent.
Last updated: October 14, 2026
Our Recommendation
California
Offers approximately $1,098/week more in gross discretionary income (before state tax)
Higher Pay
CA
Better Taxes
TX
Lower COL
TX
Higher Stipends
CA
Best Discretionary Income
CA
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | California | Texas | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Hourly Rate | $55/hr | $46/hr | CA |
| Weekly Gross (incl. stipends) | $5,119 | $3,744 | CA |
| State Income Tax | Applies | None | TX |
| Cost of Living Index | 151.7 | 92.7 | TX |
| Average 1BR Rent | $2,300/mo | $1,100/mo | TX |
| Weekly Housing Stipend (GSA) | $2,275 | $1,344 | CA |
| Compact License State | No | Yes | — |
| Est. Weekly Discretionary Income (gross, pre-tax) | $4,588 | $3,490 | CA |
California Overview
Pay: California offers $55/hr average with $5,119/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: State income tax applies, making it less tax-friendly.
Cost of Living: Index of 151.7 with average rent of $2,300/mo.
Licensing: Requires separate license, $350 fee, 4-6 weeks.
Texas Overview
Pay: Texas offers $46/hr average with $3,744/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: No state income tax, making it tax-friendly.
Cost of Living: Index of 92.7 with average rent of $1,100/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 Texas?
California offers higher gross pay at $55/hr compared to $46/hr. However, California offers more gross discretionary income once rent is factored in — run both through the tax calculator for your actual after-tax comparison.
Is California or Texas better for travel nurse taxes?
Texas is more tax-friendly — it has no state income tax, while California 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 California and Texas?
California has a COL index of 151.7 while Texas is 92.7. Average 1BR rent: California $2300/mo vs Texas $1100/mo. Texas is more affordable overall.
Which state has higher GSA stipend rates?
California offers higher tax-free stipends at $2,919/week compared to $1,904/week in Texas.
Should I take a travel nurse assignment in California or Texas?
Based on our analysis, California offers approximately $1,098 more in weekly gross discretionary income after housing (before state tax). However, consider factors like licensing (California requires separate license, Texas is compact), job availability, and personal preferences.