Illinois vs Ohio Taxes
Compare the total tax burden between Illinois (4.95% flat) and Ohio (0% – 3.5%). Enter your income to see which state saves you more.
Tax at Different Income Levels
| Income | Illinois Total Tax | Ohio Total Tax | Annual Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| $75,000 | $16,619 | $14,600 | Save $2,020 |
| $100,000 | $25,269 | $22,700 | Save $2,570 |
| $150,000 | $43,187 | $39,774 | Save $3,413 |
| $200,000 | $60,006 | $55,868 | Save $4,138 |
Based on single filer, standard deduction, 2025 tax year. Includes federal income tax, state income tax, and FICA.
Why the difference
You'd save $2,570/year ($214/month) in Ohio vs Illinois.
Tax structure
Illinois has a flat 5.0% state income tax, while Ohio uses progressive brackets up to 3.5%.
Effective rate at your income
At $100,000, Ohio's effective state rate is 1.6% vs 4.2% in Illinois — a 2.6 percentage point gap.
Ohio local taxes
Most Ohio cities levy a municipal income tax (typically 1-2.5%) on top of state tax.
Tip: The flat 4.95% rate means your effective state tax rate is close to 4.95% regardless of income — no progressive bracket benefit. Property taxes in Cook County (Chicago) can exceed $6,000-$10,000 on a median-value home.
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
Illinois
Illinois has a flat income tax rate of 4.95% on all taxable income. While the rate is moderate compared to states like California or New York, Illinois's high property taxes (average ~2.08%, second-highest nationally) significantly increase the total tax burden, particularly for homeowners.
Tip: The flat 4.95% rate means your effective state tax rate is close to 4.95% regardless of income — no progressive bracket benefit. Property taxes in Cook County (Chicago) can exceed $6,000-$10,000 on a median-value home.
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: Illinois has a flat income tax (4.95% flat), while Ohio has a progressive income tax (0% – 3.5%).
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 Illinois or Ohio?
Based on income tax alone, Ohio has a lower tax burden. At $100K income, you'd save $2,570 annually in Ohio compared to Illinois. However, total cost of living also depends on property taxes, sales taxes, and housing costs.
How much would I save moving from Illinois to Ohio?
A single filer earning $100,000 would save approximately $2,570 per year in total taxes by living in Ohio instead of Illinois. At $150,000 income, the savings change to $3,413 per year.
What is the income tax rate in Illinois?
Illinois has a flat income tax with rates of 4.95% flat.
What is the income tax rate in Ohio?
Ohio has a progressive income tax with rates of 0% – 3.5%.