Texas vs Ohio Taxes
Compare the total tax burden between Texas (no income tax) and Ohio (0% – 3.13%). Enter your income to see which state saves you more.
Tax at Different Income Levels
| Income | Texas Total Tax | Ohio Total Tax | Annual Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| $75,000 | $13,687 | $14,600 | +$913 |
| $100,000 | $21,099 | $22,700 | +$1,601 |
| $150,000 | $36,542 | $39,646 | +$3,104 |
| $200,000 | $50,885 | $55,552 | +$4,666 |
Based on single filer, standard deduction, 2025 tax year. Includes federal income tax, state income tax, and FICA.
Why the difference
You'd pay $1,601/year ($133/month) more in Ohio vs Texas.
Tax structure
Texas has no state income tax, while Ohio uses progressive brackets up to 3.1%.
Effective rate at your income
At $100,000, Texas's effective state rate is 0.0% vs 1.6% in Ohio — a 1.6 percentage point gap.
Ohio local taxes
Most Ohio cities levy a municipal income tax (typically 1-2.5%) on top of state tax.
Tip: While you save on income tax, Texas property taxes can exceed $5,000-$10,000/year on a median-priced home. Factor in property tax when comparing total tax burden against income-tax states where property taxes may be lower.
Tip: Ohio's exemption of the first $26,050 of income means very low effective state rates for modest earners. However, municipal income taxes (Cleveland 2.5%, Columbus 2.5%) can add significantly — these are separate from state tax.
Understanding Each State
Texas
Texas has no state income tax, relying instead on property taxes (among the highest in the US at ~1.6-1.8% of home value) and an 8.25% combined sales tax in most areas. For wage earners, the absence of income tax is a major advantage, but property owners face a significant ongoing cost.
Tip: While you save on income tax, Texas property taxes can exceed $5,000-$10,000/year on a median-priced home. Factor in property tax when comparing total tax burden against income-tax states where property taxes may be lower.
Ohio
Ohio uses progressive income tax brackets starting at 0% (income under $26,050 is exempt) and topping out at 3.5% on income over $115,300. Ohio's rates are moderate, and the state offers several credits including a nonrefundable personal exemption credit. Some Ohio cities levy a municipal income tax (typically 1-2.5%).
Tip: Ohio's exemption of the first $26,050 of income means very low effective state rates for modest earners. However, municipal income taxes (Cleveland 2.5%, Columbus 2.5%) can add significantly — these are separate from state tax.
Key Comparison Points
Income tax structure: Texas has no state income tax, while Ohio has a progressive income tax (0% – 3.13%).
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 Texas or Ohio?
Based on income tax alone, Texas has a lower tax burden. At $100K income, you'd save $1,601 annually in Texas compared to Ohio. However, total cost of living also depends on property taxes, sales taxes, and housing costs.
How much would I save moving from Ohio to Texas?
A single filer earning $100,000 would save approximately $1,601 per year in total taxes by living in Texas instead of Ohio. At $150,000 income, the savings change to $3,104 per year.
What is the income tax rate in Texas?
Texas has no state income tax.
What is the income tax rate in Ohio?
Ohio has a progressive income tax with rates of 0% – 3.13%.
Does Texas have income tax?
No, Texas does not levy a state income tax. Residents pay only federal income tax and FICA. However, Texas may have higher property taxes or sales taxes to compensate.