New York vs California: Travel Nurse Pay Comparison
Compare travel nurse pay, taxes, stipends, and cost of living between New York and California. Based on our analysis, New York offers better overall take-home pay.
Last updated: August 24, 2026
Our Recommendation
New York
Offers approximately $690/week more in discretionary income
Higher Pay
NY
Better Taxes
NY
Lower COL
NY
Higher Stipends
NY
Best Net Income
NY
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | New York | California | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Hourly Rate | $58/hr | $55/hr | NY |
| Weekly Gross (incl. stipends) | $5,358 | $4,748 | NY |
| State Income Tax | 10.9% | 13.3% | NY |
| Est. Weekly Net Pay | $4,548 | $3,927 | NY |
| Cost of Living Index | 139.1 | 151.7 | NY |
| Average 1BR Rent | $2,000/mo | $2,300/mo | NY |
| Weekly Housing Stipend (GSA) | $2,394 | $1,904 | NY |
| Compact License State | No | No | — |
| Est. Weekly Discretionary Income | $4,086 | $3,396 | NY |
New York Overview
Pay: New York offers $58/hr average with $5,358/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: 10.9% state income tax, making it less tax-friendly.
Cost of Living: Index of 139.1 with average rent of $2,000/mo.
Licensing: Requires separate license, $300 fee, 4-6 weeks.
California Overview
Pay: California offers $55/hr average with $4,748/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: 13.3% state income tax, 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which state pays travel nurses more: New York or California?
New York offers higher gross pay at $58/hr compared to $55/hr. However, New York provides better take-home pay after taxes and cost of living adjustments.
Is New York or California better for travel nurse taxes?
New York is more tax-friendly with a 10.9% state tax. California has a 13.3% state tax.
What is the cost of living difference between New York and California?
New York has a COL index of 139.1 while California is 151.7. Average 1BR rent: New York $2000/mo vs California $2300/mo. New York is more affordable overall.
Which state has higher GSA stipend rates?
New York offers higher tax-free stipends at $3,038/week compared to $2,548/week in California.
Should I take a travel nurse assignment in New York or California?
Based on our analysis, New York offers approximately $690 more in weekly discretionary income after housing. However, consider factors like licensing (New York requires separate license, California requires separate license), job availability, and personal preferences.