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 more gross discretionary income after rent.
Last updated: October 14, 2026
Our Recommendation
Virginia
Offers approximately $848/week more in gross discretionary income (before state tax)
Higher Pay
MD
Better Taxes
Tie
Lower COL
VA
Higher Stipends
VA
Best Discretionary Income
VA
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Virginia | Maryland | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Hourly Rate | $47/hr | $50/hr | MD |
| Weekly Gross (incl. stipends) | $4,589 | $3,764 | VA |
| State Income Tax | Applies | Applies | Tie |
| Cost of Living Index | 103.7 | 124 | VA |
| Average 1BR Rent | $1,300/mo | $1,400/mo | VA |
| Weekly Housing Stipend (GSA) | $2,065 | $1,162 | VA |
| Compact License State | Yes | Yes | — |
| Est. Weekly Discretionary Income (gross, pre-tax) | $4,289 | $3,441 | VA |
Virginia Overview
Pay: Virginia offers $47/hr average with $4,589/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: State income tax applies, 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 $3,764/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: State income tax applies, 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 offers more gross discretionary income once rent is factored in — run both through the tax calculator for your actual after-tax comparison.
Is Virginia or Maryland 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 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 $2,709/week compared to $1,764/week in Maryland.
Should I take a travel nurse assignment in Virginia or Maryland?
Based on our analysis, Virginia offers approximately $848 more in weekly gross discretionary income after housing (before state tax). However, consider factors like licensing (Virginia is compact, Maryland is compact), job availability, and personal preferences.