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, South Carolina offers more gross discretionary income after rent.
Last updated: October 14, 2026
Our Recommendation
South Carolina
Offers approximately $853/week more in gross discretionary income (before state tax)
Higher Pay
NC
Better Taxes
Tie
Lower COL
SC
Higher Stipends
SC
Best Discretionary Income
SC
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | North Carolina | South Carolina | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Hourly Rate | $44/hr | $42/hr | NC |
| Weekly Gross (incl. stipends) | $3,510 | $4,340 | SC |
| State Income Tax | Applies | Applies | Tie |
| Cost of Living Index | 96.5 | 95.8 | SC |
| Average 1BR Rent | $1,100/mo | $1,000/mo | SC |
| Weekly Housing Stipend (GSA) | $1,190 | $2,016 | SC |
| Compact License State | Yes | Yes | — |
| Est. Weekly Discretionary Income (gross, pre-tax) | $3,256 | $4,109 | SC |
North Carolina Overview
Pay: North Carolina offers $44/hr average with $3,510/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: State income tax applies, 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 $4,340/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: State income tax applies, 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, South Carolina offers more gross discretionary income once rent is factored in — run both through the tax calculator for your actual after-tax comparison.
Is North Carolina or South Carolina 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 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 $2,660/week compared to $1,750/week in North Carolina.
Should I take a travel nurse assignment in North Carolina or South Carolina?
Based on our analysis, South Carolina offers approximately $853 more in weekly gross discretionary income after housing (before state tax). However, consider factors like licensing (North Carolina is compact, South Carolina is compact), job availability, and personal preferences.