New York vs Georgia Taxes
Compare the total tax burden between New York (4% – 10.9%) and Georgia (5.19% flat). Enter your income to see which state saves you more.
Tax at Different Income Levels
| Income | New York Total Tax | Georgia Total Tax | Annual Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| $75,000 | $16,780 | $16,762 | Save $19 |
| $100,000 | $25,586 | $25,472 | Save $114 |
| $150,000 | $44,029 | $43,510 | Save $519 |
| $200,000 | $61,372 | $60,448 | Save $924 |
Based on single filer, standard deduction, 2025 tax year. Includes federal income tax, state income tax, and FICA.
Why the difference
You'd save $114/year ($10/month) in Georgia vs New York.
Tax structure
New York uses progressive brackets up to 10.9%, while Georgia has a flat 5.2% state income tax.
Effective rate at your income
At $100,000, Georgia's effective state rate is 4.4% vs 4.5% in New York — a 0.1 percentage point gap.
New York local taxes
New York City residents pay an additional 3.1-3.9% city income tax on top of state tax.
Tip: If you work in NYC, the city income tax significantly increases your burden. Living outside the city (e.g., New Jersey, Connecticut, or Westchester) can save 3-4% on city tax, but commuter taxes and higher property taxes may partially offset the savings.
Tip: Georgia's transition to a flat rate simplifies tax planning. The state's generous standard deduction ($12,000 single) reduces the effective rate, especially for lower-income earners. Combined with below-average cost of living, Georgia offers a balanced tax environment.
Understanding Each State
New York
New York's state income tax has progressive brackets reaching 10.9%. New York City residents pay an additional city income tax of 3.078-3.876%, making the combined state+city marginal rate up to 14.776% — the highest combined rate in the nation. The Yonkers surcharge adds another 16.75% of state tax for Yonkers residents.
Tip: If you work in NYC, the city income tax significantly increases your burden. Living outside the city (e.g., New Jersey, Connecticut, or Westchester) can save 3-4% on city tax, but commuter taxes and higher property taxes may partially offset the savings.
Georgia
Georgia switched to a flat income tax: 4.99% for 2026 (5.19% in 2025; previously progressive brackets up to 5.75%). Georgia's overall cost of living is below the national average, and the state offers a standard deduction of $12,000 for single filers and $18,000 for married filing jointly.
Tip: Georgia's transition to a flat rate simplifies tax planning. The state's generous standard deduction ($12,000 single) reduces the effective rate, especially for lower-income earners. Combined with below-average cost of living, Georgia offers a balanced tax environment.
Key Comparison Points
Income tax structure: New York has a progressive income tax (4% – 10.9%), while Georgia has a flat income tax (5.19% flat).
Beyond income tax: State tax comparisons should also consider property tax rates, sales tax, and cost of living. A state with no income tax may have higher property or sales taxes that offset the savings.
SALT deduction cap: Under OBBBA (2025+), the federal SALT cap is $40,000, phasing out above $500,000 MAGI toward a $10,000 floor. This limits the federal tax benefit of living in a high-tax state, so the gross state tax difference remains close to the net difference for most earners — especially high earners inside the phaseout.
Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to live in New York or Georgia?
Based on income tax alone, Georgia has a lower tax burden. At $100K income, you'd save $114 annually in Georgia compared to New York. However, total cost of living also depends on property taxes, sales taxes, and housing costs.
How much would I save moving from New York to Georgia?
A single filer earning $100,000 would save approximately $114 per year in total taxes by living in Georgia instead of New York. At $150,000 income, the savings change to $519 per year.
What is the income tax rate in New York?
New York has a progressive income tax with rates of 4% – 10.9%.
What is the income tax rate in Georgia?
Georgia has a flat income tax with rates of 5.19% flat.