The Quick Numbers
California and Texas are two of the most popular states for travel nursing assignments — but for very different reasons. Here's how they stack up:
| Factor | California | Texas | |--------|-----------|-------| | Average Weekly Pay | $3,800 | $2,600 | | Annual Estimate | $197,600 | $135,200 | | Cost of Living Index | 1.42x national avg | 0.98x national avg | | CoL-Adjusted Annual | $139,155 | $137,959 | | State Income Tax | 9.3%+ | 0% |
California: Highest Gross Pay
California consistently offers the highest travel nurse pay in the country — averaging $3,800/week. Here's why:
- Strict nurse-patient ratios (mandated by law) create constant staffing demand
- High cost of living drives up base compensation
- Dense hospital market — LA, SF, San Diego all competing for nurses
- Union influence keeps pay floors high
However, California has a state income tax ranging from 1% to 13.3%, which takes a significant bite out of gross pay.
Texas: Tax-Free Advantage
Texas travel nurse pay is lower at $2,600/week, but comes with a powerful advantage: no state income tax. This means:
- Your housing stipend stretches further
- Lower cost of living (0.98x national average)
- More rural assignments available with high-demand premiums
- Growing healthcare market (Houston, Dallas, San Antonio)
The Real Comparison: After Cost of Living
When you adjust for cost of living, the gap nearly disappears:
- California adjusted: $197,600 ÷ 1.42 = $139,155
- Texas adjusted: $135,200 ÷ 0.98 = $137,959
The difference is just $1,196/year in purchasing power — essentially a tie.
But Wait: Tax Matters
After factoring in California's state income tax (~9.3% effective rate for this income level), Texas actually comes out ahead:
- California after tax: ~$126,200 in purchasing power
- Texas after tax: ~$137,959 in purchasing power (no state tax)
That's roughly $11,700 more in your pocket in Texas.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose California if:
- You want the highest possible gross pay for your resume
- You prefer urban assignments in major cities
- You're building toward California licensure for permanent work
- You value the lifestyle and weather
Choose Texas if:
- You want to maximize take-home pay
- You prefer lower cost of living
- You want the no-state-tax advantage
- You're open to suburban and rural assignments
Other High-Paying States to Consider
Don't limit yourself to just these two. Other top-paying states for travel nurses include:
- Alaska: $3,500/week (remote premium)
- New York: $3,400/week (metro demand)
- Washington: $3,200/week (consistent shortage)
- Hawaii: $3,300/week (island isolation premium)
See the full breakdown on our Travel Nurse Salary page or compare any two roles side by side.