New York vs New Jersey: Travel Nurse Pay Comparison
Compare travel nurse pay, taxes, stipends, and cost of living between New York and New Jersey. Based on our analysis, New York offers better overall take-home pay.
Last updated: August 24, 2026
Our Recommendation
New York
Offers approximately $1,382/week more in discretionary income
Higher Pay
NY
Better Taxes
NJ
Lower COL
NJ
Higher Stipends
NY
Best Net Income
NY
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | New York | New Jersey | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Hourly Rate | $58/hr | $52/hr | NY |
| Weekly Gross (incl. stipends) | $5,358 | $3,774 | NY |
| State Income Tax | 10.9% | 10.75% | NJ |
| Est. Weekly Net Pay | $4,548 | $3,051 | NY |
| Cost of Living Index | 139.1 | 120.4 | NJ |
| Average 1BR Rent | $2,000/mo | $1,500/mo | NJ |
| Weekly Housing Stipend (GSA) | $2,394 | $1,092 | NY |
| Compact License State | No | No | — |
| Est. Weekly Discretionary Income | $4,086 | $2,705 | 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.
New Jersey Overview
Pay: New Jersey offers $52/hr average with $3,774/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: 10.75% state income tax, making it less tax-friendly.
Cost of Living: Index of 120.4 with average rent of $1,500/mo.
Licensing: Requires separate license, $300 fee, 4-6 weeks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which state pays travel nurses more: New York or New Jersey?
New York offers higher gross pay at $58/hr compared to $52/hr. However, New York provides better take-home pay after taxes and cost of living adjustments.
Is New York or New Jersey better for travel nurse taxes?
New Jersey is more tax-friendly with a 10.75% state tax. New York has a 10.9% state tax.
What is the cost of living difference between New York and New Jersey?
New York has a COL index of 139.1 while New Jersey is 120.4. Average 1BR rent: New York $2000/mo vs New Jersey $1500/mo. New Jersey is more affordable overall.
Which state has higher GSA stipend rates?
New York offers higher tax-free stipends at $3,038/week compared to $1,694/week in New Jersey.
Should I take a travel nurse assignment in New York or New Jersey?
Based on our analysis, New York offers approximately $1,382 more in weekly discretionary income after housing. However, consider factors like licensing (New York requires separate license, New Jersey requires separate license), job availability, and personal preferences.