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, Virginia offers better overall take-home pay.
Last updated: August 24, 2026
Our Recommendation
Virginia
Offers approximately $828/week more in discretionary income
Higher Pay
MD
Better Taxes
MD
Lower COL
VA
Higher Stipends
VA
Best Net Income
VA
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Virginia | Maryland | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Hourly Rate | $47/hr | $50/hr | MD |
| Weekly Gross (incl. stipends) | $4,456 | $3,687 | VA |
| State Income Tax | 5.75% | 5.75% | MD |
| Est. Weekly Net Pay | $3,897 | $3,092 | VA |
| Cost of Living Index | 103.7 | 124 | VA |
| Average 1BR Rent | $1,300/mo | $1,400/mo | VA |
| Weekly Housing Stipend (GSA) | $1,932 | $1,127 | VA |
| Compact License State | Yes | Yes | — |
| Est. Weekly Discretionary Income | $3,596 | $2,769 | VA |
Virginia Overview
Pay: Virginia offers $47/hr average with $4,456/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 $3,687/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.
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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, Virginia 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?
Virginia offers higher tax-free stipends at $2,576/week compared to $1,687/week in Maryland.
Should I take a travel nurse assignment in Virginia or Maryland?
Based on our analysis, Virginia offers approximately $828 more in weekly discretionary income after housing. However, consider factors like licensing (Virginia is compact, Maryland is compact), job availability, and personal preferences.