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 more gross discretionary income after rent.
Last updated: October 14, 2026
Our Recommendation
Ohio
Offers approximately $415/week more in gross discretionary income (before state tax)
Higher Pay
OH
Better Taxes
Tie
Lower COL
MI
Higher Stipends
OH
Best Discretionary Income
OH
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Michigan | Ohio | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Hourly Rate | $45/hr | $52/hr | OH |
| Weekly Gross (incl. stipends) | $3,480 | $3,872 | OH |
| State Income Tax | Applies | Applies | Tie |
| Cost of Living Index | 89 | 90.7 | MI |
| Average 1BR Rent | $1,000/mo | $900/mo | OH |
| Weekly Housing Stipend (GSA) | $1,120 | $1,190 | OH |
| Compact License State | Yes | Yes | — |
| Est. Weekly Discretionary Income (gross, pre-tax) | $3,249 | $3,664 | OH |
Michigan Overview
Pay: Michigan offers $45/hr average with $3,480/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: State income tax applies, 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 $3,872/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: State income tax applies, 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.
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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 offers more gross discretionary income once rent is factored in — run both through the tax calculator for your actual after-tax comparison.
Is Michigan or Ohio better for travel nurse taxes?
Both states levy a state income tax, so neither has a clear edge here — we don't publish specific rates, since a wrong number is worse than none. Check each state's official tax tables, or use the calculator with your own known rates to compare.
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 $1,792/week compared to $1,680/week in Michigan.
Should I take a travel nurse assignment in Michigan or Ohio?
Based on our analysis, Ohio offers approximately $415 more in weekly gross discretionary income after housing (before state tax). However, consider factors like licensing (Michigan is compact, Ohio is compact), job availability, and personal preferences.