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State Income Tax Brackets by State (2026 & 2027 Guide)

State Income Tax Brackets by State

State income tax brackets by state can have a major impact on your yearly tax bill, paycheck withholding, retirement planning, and where you choose to live or work.

Some states use progressive tax brackets with higher rates on higher income, while others use one flat tax rate or no state income tax at all.

This guide explains how state tax brackets work, compares all 50 states, and links to individual state pages so you can find the exact rates and rules that apply to you.

Understanding your state income tax rate is important because state taxes are paid in addition to federal income tax.

A move from one state to another can significantly change your take-home pay and total tax burden. Even retirees, remote workers, and part-time residents should review state tax rules before filing.

What Are State Income Tax Brackets?

State income tax brackets determine how much tax you owe to your state government based on taxable income. States generally use one of three systems:

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Graduated Tax Brackets
Higher portions of income are taxed at higher rates. Example: California, New York, and New Jersey.

Flat Tax Rate
One rate applies to most taxable income. Example: Illinois, Michigan, and Pennsylvania.

No State Income Tax
Some states do not tax wage income at all. Example: Florida, Texas, and Tennessee.

States With No State Income Tax

These states generally do not tax wage income:

  • Alaska
  • Florida
  • Nevada
  • South Dakota
  • Tennessee
  • Texas
  • Washington (wages not taxed; capital gains tax may apply in some cases)
  • Wyoming
  • New Hampshire (no broad wage tax)

For many taxpayers, living in a no-income-tax state can reduce overall taxes, but property taxes, sales taxes, insurance, and housing costs should also be considered.

States With the Highest Top Income Tax Rates

Several states have significantly higher top marginal rates than the national average. Commonly cited top-rate states include:

  1. California – 13.3%
  2. Hawaii – 11.0%
  3. New York – 10.9%
  4. New Jersey – 10.8%
  5. Oregon – 9.9%
  6. Minnesota – 9.9%
  7. Massachusetts – 9.0%
  8. Vermont – 8.8%

High earners often pay the most attention to top marginal rates, but middle-income taxpayers should also compare deductions, credits, and lower bracket thresholds.

States Moving to Lower Flat Taxes

Many states have recently reduced rates or shifted toward flatter tax systems. This has become a major trend in state tax policy. States like Georgia, Iowa, Mississippi, North Carolina, Ohio, and Idaho have made recent changes.

How to Compare State Tax Brackets

When reviewing state income tax brackets, look beyond the top rate.

Important Factors

  • Filing status
  • Taxable income thresholds
  • Standard deductions
  • Personal exemptions
  • Retirement income exclusions
  • Social Security tax treatment
  • Local city income taxes
  • Capital gains rules
  • Credits for families or seniors

Example: A taxpayer earning $75,000 may owe less in one state with a 5% rate than in another state with lower rates but fewer deductions.

List of State Income Tax Brackets by State

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Summary

This State Income Tax Brackets by State pillar page helps taxpayers compare all 50 states, understand changing tax rates, and find the right state guide for the filing season.

Whether you live in a high-tax state, a low-tax state, or a no-income-tax state, knowing your bracket can help you plan smarter and keep more of your money.

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