Michigan vs Ohio: Travel Nurse Pay Comparison
Compare travel nurse pay, taxes, stipends, and cost of living between Michigan and Ohio. Based on our analysis, Ohio offers better overall take-home pay.
Last updated: February 21, 2026
Our Recommendation
Ohio
Offers approximately $80/week more in discretionary income
Higher Pay
OH
Better Taxes
OH
Lower COL
MI
Higher Stipends
OH
Best Net Income
OH
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Michigan | Ohio | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Hourly Rate | $45/hr | $52/hr | OH |
| Weekly Gross (incl. stipends) | $2,899 | $2,971 | OH |
| State Income Tax | 4.25% | 3.99% | OH |
| Est. Weekly Net Pay | $2,391 | $2,447 | OH |
| Cost of Living Index | 89 | 90.7 | MI |
| Average 1BR Rent | $1,000/mo | $900/mo | OH |
| Weekly Housing Stipend (GSA) | $686 | $686 | OH |
| Compact License State | Yes | Yes | — |
| Est. Weekly Discretionary Income | $2,160 | $2,239 | OH |
Michigan Overview
Pay: Michigan offers $45/hr average with $2,899/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: 4.25% state income tax, making it tax-friendly.
Cost of Living: Index of 89 with average rent of $1,000/mo.
Licensing: Compact state (eNLC), $200 fee, 2-4 weeks.
Ohio Overview
Pay: Ohio offers $52/hr average with $2,971/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: 3.99% state income tax, making it tax-friendly.
Cost of Living: Index of 90.7 with average rent of $900/mo.
Licensing: Compact state (eNLC), $200 fee, 2-4 weeks.
Ready to Calculate Your Exact Pay?
Use our pay calculator with your specific contract details for both states.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which state pays travel nurses more: Michigan or Ohio?
Ohio offers higher gross pay at $52/hr compared to $45/hr. However, Ohio provides better take-home pay after taxes and cost of living adjustments.
Is Michigan or Ohio better for travel nurse taxes?
Ohio is more tax-friendly with a 3.99% state tax. Michigan has a 4.25% state tax.
What is the cost of living difference between Michigan and Ohio?
Michigan has a COL index of 89 while Ohio is 90.7. Average 1BR rent: Michigan $1000/mo vs Ohio $900/mo. Michigan is more affordable overall.
Which state has higher GSA stipend rates?
Ohio offers higher tax-free stipends at $1,099/week compared to $1,099/week in Michigan.
Should I take a travel nurse assignment in Michigan or Ohio?
Based on our analysis, Ohio offers approximately $80 more in weekly discretionary income after housing. However, consider factors like licensing (Michigan is compact, Ohio is compact), job availability, and personal preferences.