Georgia vs South Carolina: Travel Nurse Pay Comparison
Compare travel nurse pay, taxes, stipends, and cost of living between Georgia and South Carolina. Based on our analysis, South Carolina offers better overall take-home pay.
Last updated: August 24, 2026
Our Recommendation
South Carolina
Offers approximately $428/week more in discretionary income
Higher Pay
GA
Better Taxes
GA
Lower COL
GA
Higher Stipends
SC
Best Net Income
SC
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Georgia | South Carolina | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Hourly Rate | $51/hr | $42/hr | GA |
| Weekly Gross (incl. stipends) | $4,021 | $4,340 | SC |
| State Income Tax | 5.75% | 7% | GA |
| Est. Weekly Net Pay | $3,414 | $3,819 | SC |
| Cost of Living Index | 89.5 | 95.8 | GA |
| Average 1BR Rent | $1,100/mo | $1,000/mo | SC |
| Weekly Housing Stipend (GSA) | $1,379 | $2,016 | SC |
| Compact License State | Yes | Yes | — |
| Est. Weekly Discretionary Income | $3,160 | $3,588 | SC |
Georgia Overview
Pay: Georgia offers $51/hr average with $4,021/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: 5.75% state income tax, making it less tax-friendly.
Cost of Living: Index of 89.5 with average rent of $1,100/mo.
Licensing: Compact state (eNLC), $200 fee, 2-4 weeks.
South Carolina Overview
Pay: South Carolina offers $42/hr average with $4,340/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: 7% state income tax, making it less tax-friendly.
Cost of Living: Index of 95.8 with average rent of $1,000/mo.
Licensing: Compact state (eNLC), $200 fee, 2-4 weeks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which state pays travel nurses more: Georgia or South Carolina?
Georgia offers higher gross pay at $51/hr compared to $42/hr. However, South Carolina provides better take-home pay after taxes and cost of living adjustments.
Is Georgia or South Carolina better for travel nurse taxes?
Georgia is more tax-friendly with a 5.75% state tax. South Carolina has a 7% state tax.
What is the cost of living difference between Georgia and South Carolina?
Georgia has a COL index of 89.5 while South Carolina is 95.8. Average 1BR rent: Georgia $1100/mo vs South Carolina $1000/mo. Georgia is more affordable overall.
Which state has higher GSA stipend rates?
South Carolina offers higher tax-free stipends at $2,660/week compared to $1,981/week in Georgia.
Should I take a travel nurse assignment in Georgia or South Carolina?
Based on our analysis, South Carolina offers approximately $428 more in weekly discretionary income after housing. However, consider factors like licensing (Georgia is compact, South Carolina is compact), job availability, and personal preferences.