Florida vs Texas: Travel Nurse Pay Comparison
Compare travel nurse pay, taxes, stipends, and cost of living between Florida and Texas. Based on our analysis, Florida offers more gross discretionary income after rent.
Last updated: October 14, 2026
Our Recommendation
Florida
Offers approximately $602/week more in gross discretionary income (before state tax)
Higher Pay
FL
Better Taxes
Tie
Lower COL
TX
Higher Stipends
FL
Best Discretionary Income
FL
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Florida | Texas | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Hourly Rate | $51/hr | $46/hr | FL |
| Weekly Gross (incl. stipends) | $4,392 | $3,744 | FL |
| State Income Tax | None | None | Tie |
| Cost of Living Index | 100.7 | 92.7 | TX |
| Average 1BR Rent | $1,300/mo | $1,100/mo | TX |
| Weekly Housing Stipend (GSA) | $1,708 | $1,344 | FL |
| Compact License State | Yes | Yes | — |
| Est. Weekly Discretionary Income (gross, pre-tax) | $4,092 | $3,490 | FL |
Florida Overview
Pay: Florida offers $51/hr average with $4,392/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.
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: Florida or Texas?
Florida offers higher gross pay at $51/hr compared to $46/hr. However, Florida offers more gross discretionary income once rent is factored in — run both through the tax calculator for your actual after-tax comparison.
Is Florida or Texas better for travel nurse taxes?
Neither state levies an income tax, so they're equal on this axis — the deciding factor is likely cost of living or job availability.
What is the cost of living difference between Florida and Texas?
Florida has a COL index of 100.7 while Texas is 92.7. Average 1BR rent: Florida $1300/mo vs Texas $1100/mo. Texas is more affordable overall.
Which state has higher GSA stipend rates?
Florida offers higher tax-free stipends at $2,352/week compared to $1,904/week in Texas.
Should I take a travel nurse assignment in Florida or Texas?
Based on our analysis, Florida offers approximately $602 more in weekly gross discretionary income after housing (before state tax). However, consider factors like licensing (Florida is compact, Texas is compact), job availability, and personal preferences.