Delaware vs Utah: Paycheck Calculator Comparison
VSDetailed comparison of tax rates, cost of living, and quality of life
📌 6.60% in Delaware versus 4.85% in Utah translates to about $1,050 per year at $60,000. Utah balances this through outdoor recreation. Recent data shows retirees migrating to Utah, skiers to Delaware based on broader considerations.
The spread between Delaware (6.60%) and Utah (4.85%) creates noticeable paycheck differences. At $60,000, you're facing roughly $1,050 in annual tax variance. How much that matters depends on your broader financial picture.
🔑 Key Differences
- **State income tax**: Delaware at 6.60% vs Utah at 4.85%
- **Annual savings** (on $60,000): Utah saves you ~$1,050
- **Tax system**: Both use progressive brackets
- **Deductions**: Standard federal deductions apply, state variations exist
- **Local taxes**: Check your specific county/city as rates vary within states
Tax Comparison
| Tax Type | Delaware | Utah |
|---|---|---|
| State Income Tax | 2.2% - 6.6% | 4.85% |
| 💰 On $40,000 Salary |
State Tax: $1,760
Take Home: $38,240
+$180
|
State Tax: $1,940
Take Home: $38,060
|
| 💰 On $60,000 Salary |
State Tax: $2,640
Take Home: $57,360
+$270
|
State Tax: $2,910
Take Home: $57,090
|
| 💰 On $100,000 Salary |
State Tax: $4,400
Take Home: $95,600
+$450
|
State Tax: $4,850
Take Home: $95,150
|
| Cost of Living | Delaware offers moderate living costs that vary considerably by location. Northern Delaware near Wilmington and Philadelphia commands higher housing prices but remains more affordable than neighboring Pennsylvania and Maryland suburbs. Dover provides capital city convenience at reasonable costs. Beach communities like Rehoboth Beach and Lewes carry seasonal premium pricing, particularly during summer months. The absence of sales tax delivers meaningful savings - no tax on groceries, clothing, electronics, or any retail purchases. Property taxes can be substantial in some areas, especially towns with strong schools. Overall, Delaware provides middle-ground affordability between expensive northeastern metros and cheaper southern states. | Utah costs have increased substantially. Salt Lake City and surrounding areas command prices approaching expensive metros - median home prices often exceed $450,000-500,000. Provo-Orem follows similar trajectory. Smaller Utah cities offer better value. Property taxes stay moderate. Sales tax reaches 7-8%. The affordability advantage Utah once offered has compressed significantly as technology sector drives population growth and housing demand. |
Pros & Cons
Delaware
✓ Advantages
- No sales tax
- Lower cost than nearby states
- Business-friendly
- Beach access
⚠ Considerations
- Limited job market
- Small state with fewer opportunities
- Some areas have high property tax
- Traffic to nearby cities
Utah
✓ Advantages
- Flat 4.65% income tax is simple and predictable
- Strong growing technology sector
- Beautiful outdoor recreation and skiing
- Lower unemployment rates
- Young educated workforce
⚠ Considerations
- Rising housing costs especially in Salt Lake area
- Air quality issues in winter months
- Limited public transportation
- Sales tax can be high
- Some areas face water scarcity
Bottom Line
Utah delivers measurable tax benefits—approximately $1,050 at $60,000. Delaware attracts talent despite higher rates, primarily through outdoor recreation. retirees demographics cluster in Utah, while skiers sectors find Delaware's strengths worth the premium.📢 Share This Comparison
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