California vs Pennsylvania Taxes
Compare the total tax burden between California (1% – 13.3%) and Pennsylvania (3.07% flat). Enter your income to see which state saves you more.
Tax at Different Income Levels
| Income | California Total Tax | Pennsylvania Total Tax | Annual Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| $75,000 | $15,887 | $15,505 | Save $381 |
| $100,000 | $25,477 | $23,685 | Save $1,791 |
| $150,000 | $45,570 | $40,663 | Save $4,906 |
| $200,000 | $64,563 | $56,542 | Save $8,021 |
Based on single filer, standard deduction, 2025 tax year. Includes federal income tax, state income tax, and FICA.
Why the difference
You'd save $1,791/year ($149/month) in Pennsylvania vs California.
Tax structure
California uses progressive brackets up to 13.3%, while Pennsylvania has a flat 3.1% state income tax.
Effective rate at your income
At $100,000, Pennsylvania's effective state rate is 2.6% vs 4.4% in California — 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: California's progressive brackets mean your effective rate is much lower than 13.3% for most earners. At $100,000, the effective state rate is approximately 5.8%. Consider maximizing 401(k) contributions and HSA to reduce California-taxable income.
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
California
California has the highest top marginal state tax rate in the US at 13.3%, with progressive brackets starting at 1%. An additional 1% Mental Health Services Tax applies to incomes over $1 million. Despite high taxes, California's economy — tech, entertainment, agriculture — attracts top talent globally. Under OBBBA (2025+), the SALT deduction cap rose to $40,000 ($20,000 MFS) but phases out $1-for-$1 above $500,000 MAGI ($250,000 MFS) toward a $10,000 floor — so high-income California itemizers see only partial federal relief.
Tip: California's progressive brackets mean your effective rate is much lower than 13.3% for most earners. At $100,000, the effective state rate is approximately 5.8%. Consider maximizing 401(k) contributions and HSA to reduce California-taxable income.
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: California has a progressive income tax (1% – 13.3%), 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 (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 California or Pennsylvania?
Based on income tax alone, Pennsylvania has a lower tax burden. At $100K income, you'd save $1,791 annually in Pennsylvania compared to California. However, total cost of living also depends on property taxes, sales taxes, and housing costs.
How much would I save moving from California to Pennsylvania?
A single filer earning $100,000 would save approximately $1,791 per year in total taxes by living in Pennsylvania instead of California. At $150,000 income, the savings change to $4,906 per year.
What is the income tax rate in California?
California has a progressive income tax with rates of 1% – 13.3%.
What is the income tax rate in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania has a flat income tax with rates of 3.07% flat.