New York vs Pennsylvania: Travel Nurse Pay Comparison
Compare travel nurse pay, taxes, stipends, and cost of living between New York and Pennsylvania. Based on our analysis, New York offers better overall take-home pay.
Last updated: February 21, 2026
Our Recommendation
New York
Offers approximately $182/week more in discretionary income
Higher Pay
NY
Better Taxes
PA
Lower COL
PA
Higher Stipends
NY
Best Net Income
NY
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | New York | Pennsylvania | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Hourly Rate | $58/hr | $48/hr | NY |
| Weekly Gross (incl. stipends) | $3,888 | $3,208 | NY |
| State Income Tax | 10.9% | 3.07% | PA |
| Est. Weekly Net Pay | $3,078 | $2,688 | NY |
| Cost of Living Index | 139.1 | 100.3 | PA |
| Average 1BR Rent | $2,000/mo | $1,100/mo | PA |
| Weekly Housing Stipend (GSA) | $1,050 | $840 | NY |
| Compact License State | No | No | — |
| Est. Weekly Discretionary Income | $2,616 | $2,434 | NY |
New York Overview
Pay: New York offers $58/hr average with $3,888/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.
Pennsylvania Overview
Pay: Pennsylvania offers $48/hr average with $3,208/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: 3.07% state income tax, making it tax-friendly.
Cost of Living: Index of 100.3 with average rent of $1,100/mo.
Licensing: Requires separate license, $200 fee, 4-6 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: New York or Pennsylvania?
New York offers higher gross pay at $58/hr compared to $48/hr. However, New York provides better take-home pay after taxes and cost of living adjustments.
Is New York or Pennsylvania better for travel nurse taxes?
Pennsylvania is more tax-friendly with a 3.07% state tax. New York has a 10.9% state tax.
What is the cost of living difference between New York and Pennsylvania?
New York has a COL index of 139.1 while Pennsylvania is 100.3. Average 1BR rent: New York $2000/mo vs Pennsylvania $1100/mo. Pennsylvania is more affordable overall.
Which state has higher GSA stipend rates?
New York offers higher tax-free stipends at $1,568/week compared to $1,288/week in Pennsylvania.
Should I take a travel nurse assignment in New York or Pennsylvania?
Based on our analysis, New York offers approximately $182 more in weekly discretionary income after housing. However, consider factors like licensing (New York requires separate license, Pennsylvania requires separate license), job availability, and personal preferences.