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 more gross discretionary income after rent.
Last updated: October 14, 2026
Our Recommendation
Washington
Offers approximately $447/week more in gross discretionary income (before state tax)
Higher Pay
WA
Better Taxes
WA
Lower COL
WA
Higher Stipends
WA
Best Discretionary Income
WA
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Washington | Oregon | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Hourly Rate | $56/hr | $54/hr | WA |
| Weekly Gross (incl. stipends) | $4,669 | $4,176 | WA |
| State Income Tax | None | Applies | WA |
| Cost of Living Index | 118.7 | 130.8 | WA |
| Average 1BR Rent | $1,600/mo | $1,400/mo | OR |
| Weekly Housing Stipend (GSA) | $1,785 | $1,414 | WA |
| Compact License State | Yes | Yes | — |
| Est. Weekly Discretionary Income (gross, pre-tax) | $4,299 | $3,853 | WA |
Washington Overview
Pay: Washington offers $56/hr average with $4,669/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 $4,176/week gross including stipends.
Taxes: State income tax applies, 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 offers more gross discretionary income once rent is factored in — run both through the tax calculator for your actual after-tax comparison.
Is Washington or Oregon better for travel nurse taxes?
Washington is more tax-friendly — it has no state income tax, while Oregon does levy one (we don't publish a specific rate; check its official tax tables or your own known rate in the calculator).
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?
Washington offers higher tax-free stipends at $2,429/week compared to $2,016/week in Oregon.
Should I take a travel nurse assignment in Washington or Oregon?
Based on our analysis, Washington offers approximately $447 more in weekly gross discretionary income after housing (before state tax). However, consider factors like licensing (Washington is compact, Oregon is compact), job availability, and personal preferences.