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, California offers more gross discretionary income after rent.
Last updated: October 14, 2026
Our Recommendation
California
Offers approximately $288/week more in gross discretionary income (before state tax)
Higher Pay
WA
Better Taxes
WA
Lower COL
WA
Higher Stipends
CA
Best Discretionary Income
CA
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | California | Washington | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Hourly Rate | $55/hr | $56/hr | WA |
| Weekly Gross (incl. stipends) | $5,119 | $4,669 | CA |
| State Income Tax | Applies | None | WA |
| Cost of Living Index | 151.7 | 118.7 | WA |
| Average 1BR Rent | $2,300/mo | $1,600/mo | WA |
| Weekly Housing Stipend (GSA) | $2,275 | $1,785 | CA |
| Compact License State | No | Yes | — |
| Est. Weekly Discretionary Income (gross, pre-tax) | $4,588 | $4,299 | 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.
Washington Overview
Pay: Washington offers $56/hr average with $4,669/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, 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 Washington better for travel nurse taxes?
Washington 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 Washington?
California has a COL index of 151.7 while Washington is 118.7. Average 1BR rent: California $2300/mo vs Washington $1600/mo. Washington is more affordable overall.
Which state has higher GSA stipend rates?
California offers higher tax-free stipends at $2,919/week compared to $2,429/week in Washington.
Should I take a travel nurse assignment in California or Washington?
Based on our analysis, California offers approximately $288 more in weekly gross discretionary income after housing (before state tax). However, consider factors like licensing (California requires separate license, Washington is compact), job availability, and personal preferences.