Virginia vs Maryland: Travel Nurse Pay Comparison
Compare travel nurse pay, taxes, stipends, and cost of living between Virginia and Maryland. Based on our analysis, Maryland offers better overall take-home pay.
Last updated: February 21, 2026
Our Recommendation
Maryland
Offers approximately $166/week more in discretionary income
Higher Pay
MD
Better Taxes
MD
Lower COL
VA
Higher Stipends
MD
Best Net Income
MD
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Virginia | Maryland | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Hourly Rate | $47/hr | $50/hr | MD |
| Weekly Gross (incl. stipends) | $3,168 | $3,393 | MD |
| State Income Tax | 5.75% | 5.75% | MD |
| Est. Weekly Net Pay | $2,609 | $2,798 | MD |
| Cost of Living Index | 103.7 | 124 | VA |
| Average 1BR Rent | $1,300/mo | $1,400/mo | VA |
| Weekly Housing Stipend (GSA) | $840 | $910 | MD |
| Compact License State | Yes | Yes | — |
| Est. Weekly Discretionary Income | $2,308 | $2,475 | MD |
Virginia Overview
Pay: Virginia offers $47/hr average with $3,168/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: 5.75% state income tax, making it less tax-friendly.
Cost of Living: Index of 103.7 with average rent of $1,300/mo.
Licensing: Compact state (eNLC), $200 fee, 2-4 weeks.
Maryland Overview
Pay: Maryland offers $50/hr average with $3,393/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: 5.75% state income tax, making it less tax-friendly.
Cost of Living: Index of 124 with average rent of $1,400/mo.
Licensing: Compact state (eNLC), $250 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: Virginia or Maryland?
Maryland offers higher gross pay at $50/hr compared to $47/hr. However, Maryland provides better take-home pay after taxes and cost of living adjustments.
Is Virginia or Maryland better for travel nurse taxes?
Maryland is more tax-friendly with a 5.75% state tax. Virginia has a 5.75% state tax.
What is the cost of living difference between Virginia and Maryland?
Virginia has a COL index of 103.7 while Maryland is 124. Average 1BR rent: Virginia $1300/mo vs Maryland $1400/mo. Virginia is more affordable overall.
Which state has higher GSA stipend rates?
Maryland offers higher tax-free stipends at $1,393/week compared to $1,288/week in Virginia.
Should I take a travel nurse assignment in Virginia or Maryland?
Based on our analysis, Maryland offers approximately $166 more in weekly discretionary income after housing. However, consider factors like licensing (Virginia is compact, Maryland is compact), job availability, and personal preferences.