California vs Washington: Travel Nurse Pay Comparison
Compare travel nurse pay, taxes, stipends, and cost of living between California and Washington. Based on our analysis, Washington offers better overall take-home pay.
Last updated: February 21, 2026
Our Recommendation
Washington
Offers approximately $158/week more in discretionary income
Higher Pay
WA
Better Taxes
WA
Lower COL
WA
Higher Stipends
CA
Best Net Income
WA
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | California | Washington | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Hourly Rate | $55/hr | $56/hr | WA |
| Weekly Gross (incl. stipends) | $3,768 | $3,528 | CA |
| State Income Tax | 13.3% | None | WA |
| Est. Weekly Net Pay | $2,947 | $2,990 | WA |
| Cost of Living Index | 151.7 | 118.7 | WA |
| Average 1BR Rent | $2,100/mo | $1,600/mo | WA |
| Weekly Housing Stipend (GSA) | $1,050 | $840 | CA |
| Compact License State | No | Yes | — |
| Est. Weekly Discretionary Income | $2,462 | $2,621 | WA |
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.
Washington Overview
Pay: Washington offers $56/hr average with $3,528/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: No state income tax, making it tax-friendly.
Cost of Living: Index of 118.7 with average rent of $1,600/mo.
Licensing: Compact state (eNLC), $300 fee, 2-4 weeks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which state pays travel nurses more: California or Washington?
Washington offers higher gross pay at $56/hr compared to $55/hr. However, Washington provides better take-home pay after taxes and cost of living adjustments.
Is California or Washington better for travel nurse taxes?
Washington 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 Washington?
California has a COL index of 151.7 while Washington is 118.7. Average 1BR rent: California $2100/mo vs Washington $1600/mo. Washington 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 Washington.
Should I take a travel nurse assignment in California or Washington?
Based on our analysis, Washington offers approximately $158 more in weekly discretionary income after housing. However, consider factors like licensing (California requires separate license, Washington is compact), job availability, and personal preferences.