Washington vs Oregon: Travel Nurse Pay Comparison
Compare travel nurse pay, taxes, stipends, and cost of living between Washington and Oregon. Based on our analysis, Washington offers better overall take-home pay.
Last updated: February 21, 2026
Our Recommendation
Washington
Offers approximately $228/week more in discretionary income
Higher Pay
WA
Better Taxes
WA
Lower COL
WA
Higher Stipends
OR
Best Net Income
WA
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Washington | Oregon | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Hourly Rate | $56/hr | $54/hr | WA |
| Weekly Gross (incl. stipends) | $3,528 | $3,448 | WA |
| State Income Tax | None | 9.9% | WA |
| Est. Weekly Net Pay | $2,990 | $2,716 | WA |
| Cost of Living Index | 118.7 | 130.8 | WA |
| Average 1BR Rent | $1,600/mo | $1,400/mo | OR |
| Weekly Housing Stipend (GSA) | $840 | $840 | OR |
| Compact License State | Yes | Yes | — |
| Est. Weekly Discretionary Income | $2,621 | $2,392 | WA |
Washington Overview
Pay: Washington offers $56/hr average with $3,528/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: No state income tax, making it tax-friendly.
Cost of Living: Index of 118.7 with average rent of $1,600/mo.
Licensing: Compact state (eNLC), $300 fee, 2-4 weeks.
Oregon Overview
Pay: Oregon offers $54/hr average with $3,448/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: 9.9% state income tax, making it less tax-friendly.
Cost of Living: Index of 130.8 with average rent of $1,400/mo.
Licensing: Compact state (eNLC), $300 fee, 2-4 weeks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which state pays travel nurses more: Washington or Oregon?
Washington offers higher gross pay at $56/hr compared to $54/hr. However, Washington provides better take-home pay after taxes and cost of living adjustments.
Is Washington or Oregon better for travel nurse taxes?
Washington is more tax-friendly with no state income tax. Oregon has a 9.9% state tax.
What is the cost of living difference between Washington and Oregon?
Washington has a COL index of 118.7 while Oregon is 130.8. Average 1BR rent: Washington $1600/mo vs Oregon $1400/mo. Washington is more affordable overall.
Which state has higher GSA stipend rates?
Oregon offers higher tax-free stipends at $1,288/week compared to $1,288/week in Washington.
Should I take a travel nurse assignment in Washington or Oregon?
Based on our analysis, Washington offers approximately $228 more in weekly discretionary income after housing. However, consider factors like licensing (Washington is compact, Oregon is compact), job availability, and personal preferences.