Pennsylvania vs Utah: Paycheck Calculator Comparison
VSDetailed comparison of tax rates, cost of living, and quality of life
📌 The 3.07% versus 4.85% comparison nets approximately $1,513 annually for $85,000 professionals. Utah stays relevant through outdoor recreation. Migration patterns reflect families choosing Pennsylvania, skiers selecting Utah based on total value rather than taxes alone.
Between Pennsylvania's 3.07% and Utah's 4.85%, the tax differential hits around $1,513 yearly at $85,000. That's real money in anyone's book, even if the decision ultimately comes down to more than just tax policy.
🔑 Key Differences
- **State income tax**: Pennsylvania at 3.07% vs Utah at 4.85%
- **Annual savings** (on $85,000): Pennsylvania saves you ~$1,513
- **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 | Pennsylvania | Utah |
|---|---|---|
| State Income Tax | 3.07% | 4.85% |
| 💰 On $40,000 Salary |
State Tax: $1,228
Take Home: $38,772
+$712
|
State Tax: $1,940
Take Home: $38,060
|
| 💰 On $60,000 Salary |
State Tax: $1,842
Take Home: $58,158
+$1,068
|
State Tax: $2,910
Take Home: $57,090
|
| 💰 On $100,000 Salary |
State Tax: $3,070
Take Home: $96,930
+$1,780
|
State Tax: $4,850
Take Home: $95,150
|
| Cost of Living | Pennsylvania costs split dramatically. Philadelphia housing demands substantial income - median prices often exceed $300,000-400,000 in desirable areas. Pittsburgh offers better value despite renaissance. Suburbs surrounding major cities command premium pricing. Smaller cities like Allentown, Erie, and Scranton provide genuine affordability. Central Pennsylvania delivers excellent value. Property taxes run high statewide. No sales tax on clothing and groceries helps families. Overall, costs vary from expensive (Philadelphia) to affordable (central PA). | 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
Pennsylvania
✓ Advantages
- Flat 3.07% state income tax is simple and predictable
- No state tax on retirement income benefits retirees
- Strong healthcare and education sectors provide stable employment
- Pittsburgh offers urban amenities at reasonable costs
- Historical cities with cultural attractions
⚠ Considerations
- Philadelphia imposes additional 3.79% city wage tax
- Property taxes can be high in some areas
- Cold winters with significant heating costs
- Some infrastructure challenges in older cities
- Sales tax at 6% plus 1-2% in some localities
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, Pennsylvania wins with about $1,513 annual savings at $85,000. Utah maintains pull through outdoor recreation, which resonates particularly with skiers. Recent trends show families moving to Pennsylvania, though Utah continues drawing people who prioritize {factor}.📢 Share This Comparison
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