Utah vs Vermont Take-Home Pay Showdown
VSDetailed comparison of tax rates, cost of living, and quality of life
📌 With 4.85% in Utah and 8.75% in Vermont, someone earning $100,000 faces about $3,900 in annual tax variance. Vermont's advantage lies in rural beauty. active families populations have been trending toward Utah, though skiers continue finding value in Vermont despite the premium.
Utah and Vermont take different approaches to income tax—4.85% compared to 8.75%. Run the math on $100,000, and you're looking at around $3,900 yearly variance. Of course, taxes are just one piece of the relocation puzzle.
🔑 Key Differences
- **State income tax**: Utah at 4.85% vs Vermont at 8.75%
- **Annual savings** (on $100,000): Utah saves you ~$3,900
- **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 | Utah | Vermont |
|---|---|---|
| State Income Tax | 4.85% | 3.35% - 8.75% |
| 💰 On $40,000 Salary |
State Tax: $1,940
Take Home: $38,060
+$480
|
State Tax: $2,420
Take Home: $37,580
|
| 💰 On $60,000 Salary |
State Tax: $2,910
Take Home: $57,090
+$720
|
State Tax: $3,630
Take Home: $56,370
|
| 💰 On $100,000 Salary |
State Tax: $4,850
Take Home: $95,150
+$1,200
|
State Tax: $6,050
Take Home: $93,950
|
| Cost of Living | 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. | Vermont ranks among more expensive states. Housing costs substantial - median prices often exceed $350,000-400,000 in desirable areas. Property taxes run high. Heating costs significant given harsh winters. Groceries and services cost more than national averages. Sales tax reaches 6%. The high tax burden combined with elevated costs means even solid six-figure incomes require careful budgeting. |
Pros & Cons
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
Vermont
✓ Advantages
- Excellent quality of life and natural beauty
- Strong sense of community
- Good education system
- Beautiful seasons and outdoor recreation
- Progressive values and culture
⚠ Considerations
- Higher state income tax (up to 8.75%)
- Limited job market and opportunities
- Very cold winters with heavy snow
- High cost of living especially housing
- Remote location with limited access to major cities
Bottom Line
Utah's 4.85% versus Vermont's 8.75% translates to roughly $3,900 advantage at $100,000. Vermont stays relevant by offering rural beauty. The decision often hinges on whether {factor} or direct tax savings carries more weight in your situation.📢 Share This Comparison
Help others make informed decisions about their paycheck