Oregon vs Tennessee Take-Home Pay Showdown
VSDetailed comparison of tax rates, cost of living, and quality of life
📌 Oregon at 9.90% compared to Tennessee at no income tax creates roughly $7,425 gap at $75,000. Tennessee makes up ground with no income tax. Tax savings drive lifestyle seekers toward Tennessee, while retirees often find Oregon worth the premium for no income tax.
Looking at the numbers, Oregon's 9.90% rate versus Tennessee's no income tax means about $7,425 difference annually on $75,000. That's the kind of gap that gets people's attention, even if other factors ultimately drive the decision.
🔑 Key Differences
- **State income tax**: Oregon at 9.90% vs Tennessee at no income tax
- **Annual savings** (on $75,000): Tennessee saves you ~$7,425
- **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 | Oregon | Tennessee |
|---|---|---|
| State Income Tax | 4.75% - 9.9% | No Income Tax Winner |
| 💰 On $40,000 Salary |
State Tax: $2,930
Take Home: $37,070
|
State Tax: $0
Take Home: $40,000
+$2,930
|
| 💰 On $60,000 Salary |
State Tax: $4,395
Take Home: $55,605
|
State Tax: $0
Take Home: $60,000
+$4,395
|
| 💰 On $100,000 Salary |
State Tax: $7,325
Take Home: $92,675
|
State Tax: $0
Take Home: $100,000
+$7,325
|
| Cost of Living | Oregon costs vary significantly by region. Portland housing has appreciated substantially - median prices often exceed $500,000 in desirable areas. Eugene offers better value. Bend commands premium pricing given outdoor recreation appeal. Rural Oregon provides genuine affordability. Property taxes stay moderate. No sales tax delivers meaningful savings - no tax on groceries, clothing, electronics, or any retail purchases. Healthcare costs run high. Overall, Portland requires substantial income for comfortable living while smaller cities remain more accessible. | 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
Oregon
✓ Advantages
- No sales tax saves money on purchases
- Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor recreation
- Strong technology and manufacturing sectors
- Portland offers urban culture and amenities
- Good quality of life
⚠ Considerations
- High state income tax (up to 9.9%)
- High cost of living especially in Portland
- Rainy weather much of the year
- Property taxes substantial
- Housing costs risen significantly
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
The numbers favor Tennessee by approximately $7,425 yearly for $75,000 earners. That said, Oregon continues attracting residents who value no income tax. Whether that tax difference outweighs Oregon's edge in {factor} comes down to your personal situation and priorities.📢 Share This Comparison
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