Ohio vs Utah: Which State Keeps More Money in Your Pocket?
VSDetailed comparison of tax rates, cost of living, and quality of life
📌 The 3.99% versus 4.85% comparison nets approximately $516 annually for $60,000 professionals. Utah stays relevant through outdoor recreation. Migration patterns reflect value seekers choosing Ohio, skiers selecting Utah based on total value rather than taxes alone.
When you stack up Ohio at 3.99% against Utah at 4.85%, $60,000 earners face roughly $516 in annual difference. It's one of those numbers that can sway a decision, depending on your priorities and circumstances.
🔑 Key Differences
- **State income tax**: Ohio at 3.99% vs Utah at 4.85%
- **Annual savings** (on $60,000): Ohio saves you ~$516
- **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 | Ohio | Utah |
|---|---|---|
| State Income Tax | 0% - 3.99% | 4.85% |
| 💰 On $40,000 Salary |
State Tax: $798
Take Home: $39,202
+$1,142
|
State Tax: $1,940
Take Home: $38,060
|
| 💰 On $60,000 Salary |
State Tax: $1,197
Take Home: $58,803
+$1,713
|
State Tax: $2,910
Take Home: $57,090
|
| 💰 On $100,000 Salary |
State Tax: $1,995
Take Home: $98,005
+$2,855
|
State Tax: $4,850
Take Home: $95,150
|
| Cost of Living | Ohio ranks among America's more affordable states. Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati offer genuine metropolitan amenities with housing costs 40-50% below similar-sized coastal cities. Quality homes in good suburbs typically sell for $200,000-300,000. Smaller Ohio cities provide even better value. Property taxes vary by locality but generally stay moderate. Groceries, utilities, and services all cost substantially less than national averages. The affordability means moderate salaries support comfortable middle-class lifestyles. | 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
Ohio
✓ Advantages
- Moderate state income tax tops out at 3.75%
- Affordable cost of living across the state
- Strong healthcare and manufacturing sectors
- Major metro areas offer urban amenities at reasonable costs
- Central location provides access to other regional markets
⚠ Considerations
- Some cities impose local income taxes on top of state tax
- Cold winters with heating expenses
- Some industrial areas face economic challenges
- Public transportation limited outside Cleveland
- Brain drain as young professionals leave for coastal opportunities
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
Tax-wise, Ohio wins with about $516 annual savings at $60,000. Utah maintains pull through outdoor recreation, which resonates particularly with skiers. Recent trends show value seekers moving to Ohio, though Utah continues drawing people who prioritize {factor}.📢 Share This Comparison
Help others make informed decisions about their paycheck