Minnesota vs Utah: Paycheck Calculator Comparison
VSDetailed comparison of tax rates, cost of living, and quality of life
π Minnesota's 9.85% rate compared with Utah's 4.85% translates to $3,750 difference annually for $75,000 professionals. Utah compensates with outdoor recreation. corporate workers demographics lean Utah, but skiers sectors find Minnesota attractive despite higher tax burden.
Minnesota and Utah differ notably on income tax: 9.85% versus 4.85%. The practical impact at $75,000 runs about $3,750 per year. Most people considering a move look at this alongside cost of living, job market, and lifestyle factors.
π Key Differences
- **State income tax**: Minnesota at 9.85% vs Utah at 4.85%
- **Annual savings** (on $75,000): Utah saves you ~$3,750
- **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 | Minnesota | Utah |
|---|---|---|
| State Income Tax | 5.35% - 9.85% | 4.85% |
| π° On $40,000 Salary |
State Tax: $3,040
Take Home: $36,960
|
State Tax: $1,940
Take Home: $38,060
+$1,100
|
| π° On $60,000 Salary |
State Tax: $4,560
Take Home: $55,440
|
State Tax: $2,910
Take Home: $57,090
+$1,650
|
| π° On $100,000 Salary |
State Tax: $7,600
Take Home: $92,400
|
State Tax: $4,850
Take Home: $95,150
+$2,750
|
| Cost of Living | Minnesota offers moderate living costs that help offset higher taxes. Minneapolis-St. Paul provides metropolitan amenities with housing prices well below coastal markets - quality homes in good suburbs often sell for $300,000-400,000. Rochester and Duluth offer better value. Property taxes can be substantial, funding strong schools and services. Heating costs run high during severe winters. Groceries and services cost near national averages. Despite high state taxes, your net income typically provides comfortable lifestyle thanks to moderate housing costs and excellent public services that reduce other expenses. | 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
Minnesota
β Advantages
- Strong job market in healthcare, retail, and technology
- Excellent quality of life and education
- Good public services funded by higher taxes
- Minneapolis-St. Paul offers urban amenities
- Strong sense of community
β Considerations
- High state income tax (up to 9.85%)
- Very cold winters with heavy snow
- Higher cost of living than some neighboring states
- Property taxes can be substantial
- Sales tax reaches 7-8% in many areas
Utah
β 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
β 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
The tax advantage goes to Utah by roughly $3,750 per year at $75,000. Minnesota keeps competitive by providing outdoor recreation. Whether you prioritize that savings or Minnesota's advantages in {factor} typically determines which state works better for you.π’ Share This Comparison
Help others make informed decisions about their paycheck