Texas vs Pennsylvania Taxes
Compare the total tax burden between Texas (no income tax) and Pennsylvania (3.07% flat). Enter your income to see which state saves you more.
| Tax Component | Texas | Pennsylvania |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Tax | $13,170 | $13,170 |
| State Tax | $0 | $3,070 |
| FICA | $7,650 | $7,650 |
| Total Tax | $20,820 | $23,890 |
| Take-Home | $79,180 | $76,110 |
| Effective Rate | 20.82% | 23.89% |
| Annual Difference | $3,070 less | $3,070 more |
The $3,070 difference is primarily because Pennsylvania has a flat 3.1% income tax, while Texas has no state income tax. At your income level, Pennsylvania's marginal rate is 3.1%.
Why the difference
You'd pay $3,070/year ($256/month) more in Pennsylvania vs Texas.
Tax structure
Texas has no state income tax, while Pennsylvania has a flat 3.1% state income tax.
Effective rate at your income
At $100,000, Texas's effective state rate is 0.0% vs 3.1% in Pennsylvania — a 3.1 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: 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: 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.
Texas Total Tax
$20,82020.82% effective rate
Pennsylvania Total Tax
$23,89023.89% effective rate
Annual Savings
$3,070by living in Texas
Tax at Different Income Levels
| Income | Texas Total Tax | Pennsylvania Total Tax | Annual Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| $75,000 | $13,408 | $15,710 | +$2,303 |
| $100,000 | $20,820 | $23,890 | +$3,070 |
| $150,000 | $36,209 | $40,814 | +$4,605 |
| $200,000 | $51,073 | $57,213 | +$6,140 |
Based on single filer, standard deduction, 2026 tax year. Includes federal income tax, state income tax, and FICA.
Why the difference
You'd pay $3,070/year ($256/month) more in Pennsylvania vs Texas.
Tax structure
Texas has no state income tax, while Pennsylvania has a flat 3.1% state income tax.
Effective rate at your income
At $100,000, Texas's effective state rate is 0.0% vs 3.1% in Pennsylvania — a 3.1 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: 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: 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.
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.
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.
Key Comparison Points
Income tax structure: Texas has no state income tax, while Pennsylvania has a flat income tax (3.07% 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, the 2026 federal SALT cap is $40,400, phasing out above $505,000 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 Pennsylvania?
Based on income tax alone, Texas has a lower tax burden. At $100K income, you'd save $3,070 annually in Texas compared to Pennsylvania. However, total cost of living also depends on property taxes, sales taxes, and housing costs.
How much would I save moving from Pennsylvania to Texas?
A single filer earning $100,000 would save approximately $3,070 per year in total taxes by living in Texas instead of Pennsylvania. At $150,000 income, the savings change to $4,605 per year.
What is the income tax rate in Texas?
Texas has no state income tax.
What is the income tax rate in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania has a flat income tax with rates of 3.07% flat.
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.