Pennsylvania vs Ohio Taxes
Compare the total tax burden between Pennsylvania (3.07% flat) and Ohio (0% – 3.5%). Enter your income to see which state saves you more.
Tax at Different Income Levels
| Income | Pennsylvania Total Tax | Ohio Total Tax | Annual Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| $75,000 | $15,505 | $14,600 | Save $906 |
| $100,000 | $23,685 | $22,700 | Save $986 |
| $150,000 | $40,663 | $39,774 | Save $889 |
| $200,000 | $56,542 | $55,868 | Save $674 |
Based on single filer, standard deduction, 2025 tax year. Includes federal income tax, state income tax, and FICA.
Why the difference
You'd save $986/year ($82/month) in Ohio vs Pennsylvania.
Tax structure
Pennsylvania has a flat 3.1% 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 2.6% in Pennsylvania — a 1.0 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.
Ohio local taxes
Most Ohio cities levy a municipal income tax (typically 1-2.5%) on top of state tax.
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: 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
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.
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: Pennsylvania has a flat income tax (3.07% 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 Pennsylvania or Ohio?
Based on income tax alone, Ohio has a lower tax burden. At $100K income, you'd save $986 annually in Ohio 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 Ohio?
A single filer earning $100,000 would save approximately $986 per year in total taxes by living in Ohio instead of Pennsylvania. At $150,000 income, the savings change to $889 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 Ohio?
Ohio has a progressive income tax with rates of 0% – 3.5%.