Texas vs Florida: Travel Nurse Pay Comparison
Compare travel nurse pay, taxes, stipends, and cost of living between Texas and Florida. Based on our analysis, Florida offers more gross discretionary income after rent.
Last updated: October 14, 2026
Our Recommendation
Florida
Offers approximately $602/week more in gross discretionary income (before state tax)
Higher Pay
FL
Better Taxes
Tie
Lower COL
TX
Higher Stipends
FL
Best Discretionary Income
FL
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Texas | Florida | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Hourly Rate | $46/hr | $51/hr | FL |
| Weekly Gross (incl. stipends) | $3,744 | $4,392 | FL |
| State Income Tax | None | None | Tie |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.7 | 100.7 | TX |
| Average 1BR Rent | $1,100/mo | $1,300/mo | TX |
| Weekly Housing Stipend (GSA) | $1,344 | $1,708 | FL |
| Compact License State | Yes | Yes | — |
| Est. Weekly Discretionary Income (gross, pre-tax) | $3,490 | $4,092 | FL |
Texas Overview
Pay: Texas offers $46/hr average with $3,744/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: No state income tax, making it tax-friendly.
Cost of Living: Index of 92.7 with average rent of $1,100/mo.
Licensing: Compact state (eNLC), $200 fee, 2-4 weeks.
Florida Overview
Pay: Florida offers $51/hr average with $4,392/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: No state income tax, making it tax-friendly.
Cost of Living: Index of 100.7 with average rent of $1,300/mo.
Licensing: Compact state (eNLC), $200 fee, 2-4 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: Texas or Florida?
Florida offers higher gross pay at $51/hr compared to $46/hr. However, Florida offers more gross discretionary income once rent is factored in — run both through the tax calculator for your actual after-tax comparison.
Is Texas or Florida better for travel nurse taxes?
Neither state levies an income tax, so they're equal on this axis — the deciding factor is likely cost of living or job availability.
What is the cost of living difference between Texas and Florida?
Texas has a COL index of 92.7 while Florida is 100.7. Average 1BR rent: Texas $1100/mo vs Florida $1300/mo. Texas is more affordable overall.
Which state has higher GSA stipend rates?
Florida offers higher tax-free stipends at $2,352/week compared to $1,904/week in Texas.
Should I take a travel nurse assignment in Texas or Florida?
Based on our analysis, Florida offers approximately $602 more in weekly gross discretionary income after housing (before state tax). However, consider factors like licensing (Texas is compact, Florida is compact), job availability, and personal preferences.