Georgia vs Tennessee: Paycheck Calculator Comparison
VSDetailed comparison of tax rates, cost of living, and quality of life
📌 Tax burden differs by approximately $4,888 annually at $85,000 (5.75% versus no income tax). Tennessee stays competitive via no income tax. Tennessee suits young professionals focused on take-home pay; Georgia appeals to retirees valuing healthcare access.
Georgia and Tennessee take different approaches to income tax—5.75% compared to no income tax. Run the math on $85,000, and you're looking at around $4,888 yearly variance. Of course, taxes are just one piece of the relocation puzzle.
🔑 Key Differences
- **State income tax**: Georgia at 5.75% vs Tennessee at no income tax
- **Annual savings** (on $85,000): Tennessee saves you ~$4,888
- **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 | Georgia | Tennessee |
|---|---|---|
| State Income Tax | 1% - 5.75% | No Income Tax Winner |
| 💰 On $40,000 Salary |
State Tax: $1,350
Take Home: $38,650
|
State Tax: $0
Take Home: $40,000
+$1,350
|
| 💰 On $60,000 Salary |
State Tax: $2,025
Take Home: $57,975
|
State Tax: $0
Take Home: $60,000
+$2,025
|
| 💰 On $100,000 Salary |
State Tax: $3,375
Take Home: $96,625
|
State Tax: $0
Take Home: $100,000
+$3,375
|
| Cost of Living | Georgia offers solid value in most areas. Atlanta's housing costs have increased with economic growth but remain well below major coastal cities. Quality homes in good Atlanta suburbs often sell for $300,000-400,000 - prices that would require $600,000+ in expensive metros. Savannah, Augusta, and Macon provide even better affordability. Property taxes stay moderate, though increasing in desirable areas. Groceries and services cost less than national averages. Atlanta traffic can be severe, but lower housing costs often allow living closer to work than in sprawling, expensive metros. Overall, your income stretches considerably further than in northeastern or western high-cost states. | Tennessee costs vary by region. Nashville housing has appreciated substantially - median prices often exceed $400,000 in desirable areas. Memphis, Chattanooga, and Knoxville offer better value with homes typically $200,000-350,000. Smaller cities provide exceptional affordability. Sales tax reaches 9-10% in many areas. Property taxes moderate. The no-income-tax advantage creates real financial benefit despite high sales tax. |
Pros & Cons
Georgia
✓ Advantages
- Moderate state income tax topping at 5.75%
- Atlanta offers major city amenities at reasonable costs
- Strong job market in logistics, tech, and entertainment
- Mild climate with lower heating/cooling costs than extremes
- Growing economy attracting companies and workers
⚠ Considerations
- Atlanta traffic congestion can be severe
- Sales tax reaches 8-9% in metro Atlanta
- Property taxes increasing in desirable areas
- Hot humid summers
- Public transportation limited outside MARTA coverage
Tennessee
✓ Advantages
- No state income tax on wages
- Lower cost of living than most states
- Growing job markets especially in Nashville
- No state estate or inheritance tax
- Mild climate in most areas
⚠ Considerations
- High sales tax (often 9-10% total)
- Limited public transportation outside cities
- Hot humid summers
- Some rural areas have limited opportunities
- Property taxes vary significantly by county
Bottom Line
On pure tax math, Tennessee comes out ahead by about $4,888 per year at $85,000 (no income tax versus 5.75%). Georgia makes up ground through no income tax, which matters considerably to many people. The right choice depends on whether you prioritize direct savings or value what Georgia offers in {factor} and overall lifestyle.📢 Share This Comparison
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