Idaho vs Washington: Which State Keeps More Money in Your Pocket?
VSDetailed comparison of tax rates, cost of living, and quality of life
📌 The 5.80% versus no income tax comparison nets approximately $3,480 annually for $60,000 professionals. Washington stays relevant through no income tax. Migration patterns reflect outdoor lovers choosing Washington, outdoor lovers selecting Idaho based on total value rather than taxes alone.
When you're weighing Idaho against Washington, taxes make a real difference in your paycheck. Idaho tops out at 5.80%, while Washington reaches no income tax. If you're pulling in $60,000, that spread works out to roughly $3,480 per year—though the tax number only tells part of the story.
🔑 Key Differences
- **State income tax**: Idaho at 5.80% vs Washington at no income tax
- **Annual savings** (on $60,000): Washington saves you ~$3,480
- **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 | Idaho | Washington |
|---|---|---|
| State Income Tax | 1% - 5.8% | No Income Tax Winner |
| 💰 On $40,000 Salary |
State Tax: $1,360
Take Home: $38,640
|
State Tax: $0
Take Home: $40,000
+$1,360
|
| 💰 On $60,000 Salary |
State Tax: $2,040
Take Home: $57,960
|
State Tax: $0
Take Home: $60,000
+$2,040
|
| 💰 On $100,000 Salary |
State Tax: $3,400
Take Home: $96,600
|
State Tax: $0
Take Home: $100,000
+$3,400
|
| Cost of Living | Idaho's affordability story has shifted dramatically. Boise metro experienced explosive housing growth as residents fled expensive states - median home prices that sat around $200,000 a decade ago now often exceed $450,000-500,000. Monthly rent has followed similar trajectory. Idaho Falls, Pocatello, and Twin Falls maintain better value but have also seen increases. Property taxes stay relatively low. Groceries avoid sales tax. Rural Idaho still delivers genuine affordability for those willing to accept limited services and employment options. The transformation means Boise-area positions now require substantially higher salaries than just five years ago to maintain comfortable lifestyle - though still less expensive than California or Washington metros driving the migration. | Washington costs split dramatically. Seattle metro ranks among America's most expensive - median home prices often exceed $700,000-800,000 in desirable areas. Monthly rent for decent apartments runs $2,000-3,000. Sales tax reaches 10% in Seattle. Spokane and Eastern Washington offer substantially better value. Property taxes significant. The no-income-tax advantage creates benefit, though Seattle housing costs require six-figure incomes for comfortable family living. |
Pros & Cons
Idaho
✓ Advantages
- Lower cost of living
- Beautiful outdoor recreation
- Growing tech industry
- No sales tax on groceries
⚠ Considerations
- Rapidly rising housing costs
- Limited public transportation
- Cold winters in some areas
- Lower average salaries
Washington
✓ Advantages
- No state income tax provides major advantage
- Strong technology and aerospace sectors
- Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor recreation
- No state estate or inheritance tax
- High minimum wage in many cities
⚠ Considerations
- Very high cost of living in Seattle area
- High sales tax (often 10%+ in Seattle)
- Rainy weather for much of the year
- Traffic congestion severe in metro areas
- Property taxes offset lack of income tax
Bottom Line
Washington's no income tax versus Idaho's 5.80% translates to roughly $3,480 advantage at $60,000. Idaho stays relevant by offering no income tax. The decision often hinges on whether {factor} or direct tax savings carries more weight in your situation.📢 Share This Comparison
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