What our comparison holds constant
Gross salary, federal filing status, one W-2 job, optional traditional 401(k) contribution and the 2026 federal tax year. Federal income tax and FICA are calculated consistently. Differences primarily reflect the supported state models and employee state payroll deductions.
Why not just move to a no-income-tax state?
It may be tempting to choose the largest after-tax number. But housing prices, property and sales taxes, healthcare, insurance, local taxes, family needs and salary differences may outweigh the gap. This tool cannot advise relocation or compare disposable income after living costs.
What are the biggest limitations?
NYC, Yonkers and most local income taxes are excluded here. California and New York are withholding-based estimates, while other states include simplified tax models. Credits, deductions beyond the standard deduction, HSA/FSA, family taxes and employer benefit elections are not modeled.
Detailed methodology and assumptions ↗