Pennsylvania vs Georgia Taxes
Compare the total tax burden between Pennsylvania (3.07% flat) and Georgia (5.19% flat). Enter your income to see which state saves you more.
Tax at Different Income Levels
| Income | Pennsylvania Total Tax | Georgia Total Tax | Annual Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| $75,000 | $15,505 | $16,762 | +$1,256 |
| $100,000 | $23,685 | $25,472 | +$1,786 |
| $150,000 | $40,663 | $43,510 | +$2,846 |
| $200,000 | $56,542 | $60,448 | +$3,906 |
Based on single filer, standard deduction, 2025 tax year. Includes federal income tax, state income tax, and FICA.
Why the difference
You'd pay $1,786/year ($149/month) more in Georgia vs Pennsylvania.
Tax structure
Pennsylvania has a flat 3.1% state income tax, while Georgia has a flat 5.2% state income tax.
Effective rate at your income
At $100,000, Pennsylvania's effective state rate is 2.6% vs 4.4% in Georgia — a 1.8 percentage point gap.
Pennsylvania local taxes
Many Pennsylvania municipalities levy an earned income tax (typically 1-3%); Philadelphia wage tax is 3.75% for residents.
Tip: PA's low flat rate benefits high earners, but the Philadelphia wage tax adds significantly for city workers. If you live outside Philadelphia but work in the city, the non-resident wage tax is 3.44%. PA's exemption of retirement income makes it attractive for retirees.
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
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has a flat income tax rate of 3.07% — one of the lowest flat rates in the US. Some municipalities levy an additional earned income tax (typically 1-3%), and Philadelphia residents pay a 3.75% wage tax. PA does not tax retirement income (401k, IRA, Social Security).
Tip: PA's low flat rate benefits high earners, but the Philadelphia wage tax adds significantly for city workers. If you live outside Philadelphia but work in the city, the non-resident wage tax is 3.44%. PA's exemption of retirement income makes it attractive for retirees.
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: Pennsylvania has a flat income tax (3.07% flat), 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 Pennsylvania or Georgia?
Based on income tax alone, Pennsylvania has a lower tax burden. At $100K income, you'd save $1,786 annually in Pennsylvania compared to Georgia. However, total cost of living also depends on property taxes, sales taxes, and housing costs.
How much would I save moving from Georgia to Pennsylvania?
A single filer earning $100,000 would save approximately $1,786 per year in total taxes by living in Pennsylvania instead of Georgia. At $150,000 income, the savings change to $2,846 per year.
What is the income tax rate in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania has a flat income tax with rates of 3.07% flat.
What is the income tax rate in Georgia?
Georgia has a flat income tax with rates of 5.19% flat.