North Carolina vs South Carolina: Travel Nurse Pay Comparison
Compare travel nurse pay, taxes, stipends, and cost of living between North Carolina and South Carolina. Based on our analysis, North Carolina offers better overall take-home pay.
Last updated: February 21, 2026
Our Recommendation
North Carolina
Offers approximately $63/week more in discretionary income
Higher Pay
NC
Better Taxes
NC
Lower COL
SC
Higher Stipends
SC
Best Net Income
NC
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | North Carolina | South Carolina | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Hourly Rate | $44/hr | $42/hr | NC |
| Weekly Gross (incl. stipends) | $2,859 | $2,779 | NC |
| State Income Tax | 5.25% | 7% | NC |
| Est. Weekly Net Pay | $2,344 | $2,258 | NC |
| Cost of Living Index | 96.5 | 95.8 | SC |
| Average 1BR Rent | $1,100/mo | $1,000/mo | SC |
| Weekly Housing Stipend (GSA) | $686 | $686 | SC |
| Compact License State | Yes | Yes | — |
| Est. Weekly Discretionary Income | $2,090 | $2,027 | NC |
North Carolina Overview
Pay: North Carolina offers $44/hr average with $2,859/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: 5.25% state income tax, making it less tax-friendly.
Cost of Living: Index of 96.5 with average rent of $1,100/mo.
Licensing: Compact state (eNLC), $200 fee, 2-4 weeks.
South Carolina Overview
Pay: South Carolina offers $42/hr average with $2,779/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: 7% state income tax, making it less tax-friendly.
Cost of Living: Index of 95.8 with average rent of $1,000/mo.
Licensing: Compact state (eNLC), $200 fee, 2-4 weeks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which state pays travel nurses more: North Carolina or South Carolina?
North Carolina offers higher gross pay at $44/hr compared to $42/hr. However, North Carolina provides better take-home pay after taxes and cost of living adjustments.
Is North Carolina or South Carolina better for travel nurse taxes?
North Carolina is more tax-friendly with a 5.25% state tax. South Carolina has a 7% state tax.
What is the cost of living difference between North Carolina and South Carolina?
North Carolina has a COL index of 96.5 while South Carolina is 95.8. Average 1BR rent: North Carolina $1100/mo vs South Carolina $1000/mo. South Carolina is more affordable overall.
Which state has higher GSA stipend rates?
South Carolina offers higher tax-free stipends at $1,099/week compared to $1,099/week in North Carolina.
Should I take a travel nurse assignment in North Carolina or South Carolina?
Based on our analysis, North Carolina offers approximately $63 more in weekly discretionary income after housing. However, consider factors like licensing (North Carolina is compact, South Carolina is compact), job availability, and personal preferences.