Compare Mississippi vs Utah Paychecks
VSDetailed comparison of tax rates, cost of living, and quality of life
📌 With taxes at 5.00% versus 4.85%, $100,000 earners see about $150 annual difference. Utah compensates via outdoor recreation. Utah attracts budget seekers seeking tax efficiency; Mississippi pulls skiers prioritizing cultural amenities.
Mississippi and Utah differ notably on income tax: 5.00% versus 4.85%. The practical impact at $100,000 runs about $150 per year. Most people considering a move look at this alongside cost of living, job market, and lifestyle factors.
🔑 Key Differences
- **State income tax**: Mississippi at 5.00% vs Utah at 4.85%
- **Annual savings** (on $100,000): Utah saves you ~$150
- **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 | Mississippi | Utah |
|---|---|---|
| State Income Tax | 0% - 5% | 4.85% |
| 💰 On $40,000 Salary |
State Tax: $1,000
Take Home: $39,000
+$940
|
State Tax: $1,940
Take Home: $38,060
|
| 💰 On $60,000 Salary |
State Tax: $1,500
Take Home: $58,500
+$1,410
|
State Tax: $2,910
Take Home: $57,090
|
| 💰 On $100,000 Salary |
State Tax: $2,500
Take Home: $97,500
+$2,350
|
State Tax: $4,850
Take Home: $95,150
|
| Cost of Living | Mississippi consistently ranks as America's most affordable state. Housing costs run dramatically below national levels - quality homes in Jackson, Gulfport, or other cities often sell for $150,000-200,000. Monthly rent for decent apartments typically runs $600-900. Property taxes stay very low. Mississippi charges no sales tax on groceries, helping families significantly. Utilities, services, and general expenses all cost substantially less than national averages. The extreme affordability means even modest salaries - levels that would struggle elsewhere - support comfortable middle-class lifestyles with home ownership, reasonable transportation, and financial breathing room. | 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
Mississippi
✓ Advantages
- Lowest cost of living in US
- Very affordable housing
- No tax on groceries
- Mild winters
⚠ Considerations
- Lower average salaries
- Limited metro areas
- Hot humid summers
- Economic challenges in some areas
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's 4.85% versus Mississippi's 5.00% translates to roughly $150 advantage at $100,000. Mississippi stays relevant by offering outdoor recreation. The decision often hinges on whether {factor} or direct tax savings carries more weight in your situation.📢 Share This Comparison
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