Which states have no income tax? (2024)

Editor’s Note: Ever wonder what the best states for taxes are? Not every state has the same tax rate, so there’s an advantage to living in specific states from a tax perspective. In fact, some are income tax-free states. Learn more about which states don’t have income tax in this post.

For taxpayers in a majority of the states in the U.S., tax time means filing a return for federal and state income taxes. However, that’s not the case for everyone across the country. If you’re a taxpayer in one of the seven states without an individual income tax, you are not required to prepare and file a state income tax return.

Tax-free states

The following are tax-free states (don’t have income tax):

Tax-free states in USA (excluding dividends and interest income)

Additionally, the following are tax-free states in the USA that don’t have income taxes for earned income, but they do tax dividend and interest income. This will phase out in future years, however, making the states both income tax free by 2025.

States without income taxes: Additional considerations

If you live in a state without individual income taxes, you won’t need to pay taxes on your wages or income from Social Security, pensions, or retirement plans, such as 401(k)s or an individual retirement account (IRA). However, taxpayers in these states are still subject to other types of taxes, including local taxes, property taxes, or sales taxes.

So, what are the best states for taxes?

While Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming don’t impose state income taxes, are they really the best states for taxes?

Because there are a number of additional state taxes imposed outside of income tax, the best states for taxes are really on a case by case basis. You must consider all taxes imposed, plus the cost of living in each state.

But, every state is different. Learn more about the lowest and highest taxed states.

More help with state taxes

Whether you need help with state or federal tax help, we can help! If you want to tackle taxes yourself, use our state edition tax software. Or you can opt for virtual tax preparation with tax pros with state-specific tax expertise. Simply upload your tax documents and a tax pro will do the rest!

Which states have no income tax? (2024)

FAQs

Which states have no income tax? ›

States that have no income tax aren't excessively wealthy and benevolent. They simply have a different structure for raising revenue. With no income tax dollars coming in, these states must get that revenue from other sources. Typically, this translates to higher sales taxes, property taxes and/or gasoline taxes.

Is it better to live in a state with no income tax? ›

States that have no income tax aren't excessively wealthy and benevolent. They simply have a different structure for raising revenue. With no income tax dollars coming in, these states must get that revenue from other sources. Typically, this translates to higher sales taxes, property taxes and/or gasoline taxes.

What is the most tax friendly state? ›

MoneyGeek's analysis found that Wyoming is the most tax-friendly state in America, followed by Nevada, Tennessee, Florida and Alaska. States that received a grade of A all share something in common: no state income tax. Washington and South Dakota — which both received a B — also have no state income tax.

What state has the lowest taxes and cost of living? ›

In 2020, the average American contributed 8.9% percent of their income in state taxes. Alaska had the lowest average overall tax burden – measured as total individual taxes paid divided by total personal income – at 5.4%, followed by Tennessee (6.3%), New Hampshire (6.4%), Wyoming (6.6%) and Florida (6.7%).

Which US state has lowest taxes? ›

Lowest tax burdens
  • Alaska - 5.06%
  • Delaware - 6.12%
  • New Hampshire - 6.14%
  • Tennessee - 6.22%
  • Florida - 6.33%
  • Wyoming - 6.42%
  • South Dakota - 6.69%
  • Montana - 6.93%
Mar 30, 2023

How does Florida afford no income tax? ›

Florida primarily makes up for its lack of an income tax with its sales tax, which generates around 80% of the state's revenue. Florida's sales tax is imposed on services and goods, and both the state and county levy a certain percentage.

How does Texas make money without income tax? ›

The Texas Constitution forbids personal income taxes. Instead of collecting income taxes, Texas relies on high sales and use taxes. When paired with local taxes, total sales taxes in some jurisdictions are as high as 8.25%. Property tax rates in Texas are also high.

What is the best state to retire in financially? ›

Best states to retire tax wise
RankStateState and Local Tax Burden
1Alaska4.60%
2Wyoming7.50%
3Tennessee7.60%
4South Dakota8.40%
2 more rows

What states are taxed on retirement income? ›

Most states don't tax Social Security benefits. Eleven states do tax some or all of their residents' Social Security benefits, however: Colorado, Connecticut, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Rhode Island, Utah and Vermont.

What city in the U.S. has the lowest cost of living? ›

In its report, Niche also ranked the cheapest places to live in the U.S. At the top of the list this year is Brownsville, Texas. Brownsville has been steadily rising in Niche's Lowest Cost of Living ranking over the past few years, placing number six in 2021, number three in 2022 and finally, number one in 2023.

What state has no income tax and lowest property tax? ›

Which Are the Tax-Free States? As of 2022, Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming are the only states that do not levy a state income tax. Note that Washington does levy a state capital gains tax on certain high earners.

What states tax Social Security? ›

For the 2022 tax year, 11 states tax Social Security benefits: Colorado, Connecticut, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Rhode Island, Utah and Vermont. All other states and the District of Columbia do not tax the payments.

Where is the best place to live for tax purposes? ›

1. Cheyenne, Wyoming. While not an obvious candidate, Cheyenne, Wyoming tops the list of U.S. cities with the lowest tax rates. Cheyenne tax rates are low across the board, with an average 9.7% rate for lower-income families.

How can I avoid state income tax? ›

How to avoid paying California state income tax
  1. Evaluate the Corbett Factors.
  2. Claim taxes based on whether you are a part-year resident of California.
  3. Sell your business.
  4. Decide whether or not you want to retain a home in California.
Dec 19, 2022

What town has the lowest taxes in the US? ›

Santa Ana, California

The city's combined state and local sales tax rate of 8% is a full percentage point lower than that of nearby Los Angeles, saving a typical middle-class taxpayer about $250 every year.

At what age do you stop paying property taxes in Florida? ›

At what age do you stop paying property taxes in Florida? Senior Exemption Information The property must qualify for a homestead exemption. At least one homeowner must be 65 years old as of January 1.

Does Florida have car property tax? ›

Motor Vehicle Registration and Taxes

Florida's 6 percent use tax applies to and is due on motor vehicles brought into this state within 6 months from the date of purchase. If the purchaser resides in a county that imposes a discretionary sales surtax, that tax will also apply.

Why are property taxes so low in Florida? ›

Florida by the numbers

Florida does not collect any property taxes, which helps to keep the real estate tax burden low in many areas. That said, local governments assess real estate taxes on the county level and counties receive a lot of their funding through these taxes.

What is considered a sin tax? ›

A "sin tax" is an excise tax placed on certain goods at the time of purchase. The items subject to this tax are perceived to be either morally suspect, harmful, or costly to society. Examples of sin taxes include those on cigarettes, alcohol, gambling, and vaping.

Are taxes really cheaper in Texas? ›

Though Texas has no state-level personal income tax, it does levy relatively high consumption and property taxes on residents to make up the difference. Ultimately, it has a higher effective state and local tax rate for a median U.S. household at 12.73% than California's 8.97%, according to a new report from WalletHub.

Does Texas have property tax on homes? ›

Texas has no state property tax.

The Comptroller's office does not collect property tax or set tax rates. That's up to local taxing units, which use tax revenue to provide local services including schools, streets and roads, police and fire protection and many others.

Can you retire on $3,000 a month? ›

If you have a low living cost and can supplement your income with a part-time job or a generous pension, then retiring on $3,000 a month is certainly possible.

What state is #1 retirement? ›

According to this methodology, Virginia is currently the best state for retirement.

How do I get the $16728 Social Security bonus? ›

To acquire the full amount, you need to maximize your working life and begin collecting your check until age 70. Another way to maximize your check is by asking for a raise every two or three years. Moving companies throughout your career is another way to prove your worth, and generate more money.

At what age are pensions not taxable? ›

If you receive pension or annuity payments before age 59½, you may be subject to an additional 10% tax on early distributions, unless the distribution qualifies for an exception.

What state pays the most in Social Security? ›

1. California
  • Total Social Security Received: $9.34 billion.
  • Total Number of Recipients: 6,166,205.
Jun 2, 2023

What is the most tax-friendly state for seniors? ›

1. Alaska. Alaska is the most tax-friendly state for retirees because it has no state income tax or tax on Social Security. And its sales tax rate is the fourth lowest on our list - fifth lowest in the U.S. But keep this in mind: The cost of living in Alaska is higher than in most states.

What states do not tax your 401k when you retire? ›

Retirement distributions from 401(k) plans or IRAs are considered income for tax purposes. Fortunately, there are some states that don't charge taxes on retirement income of any kind: Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington and Wyoming.

Where is the best place to retire? ›

Countries Natixis ranked as secure retirement locations are mostly concentrated in Europe but also include New Zealand and Australia. The top three countries in the rankings are Norway, Switzerland and Iceland, all of which have life expectancies of 83 years, compared to 77 in the U.S. and the world average of 72.

Where is the most affordable place to live? ›

Most Affordable Places to Live in the U.S. in 2023-2024
  • Hickory, NC.
  • Youngstown, OH.
  • Huntington, WV & Ashland, KY-OH.
  • Fort Wayne, IN.
  • Beaumont, TX.
  • Peoria, IL.

Where is the safest cheapest place to live? ›

10 of the cheapest and safest places to live in the world
  • Albania.
  • Portugal.
  • Costa Rica.
  • Panama.
  • Mexico.
  • Thailand.
  • Malaysia.
  • Vietnam.

What is the most cheapest place to live in the world? ›

ECUADOR (tie) The low cost of living is the number one reason for many expats moving to Ecuador. It can be a tremendous advantage, particularly if you are on a fixed income. Rental prices are half the cost than in the U.S. or Europe, and often include furnishings.

Why is Hawaii property tax so low? ›

A major reason Hawaii has low property taxes is that it offers generous exemptions on owner-occupied residences. Homeowners are eligible for exemptions ranging from $80,000 to $160,000, depending on their county of residence.

Which US city has the highest property taxes? ›

6 Cities With the Highest Property Taxes
  • Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, Texas. Effective property tax rate for owner-occupied homes: 1.6% ...
  • Cleveland-Elyria, Ohio. ...
  • Buffalo-Cheektowaga, New York. ...
  • Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, Illinois. ...
  • Hartford-East Hartford-Middletown, Connecticut. ...
  • Rochester, New York.
May 15, 2023

Is there anywhere in the U.S. with no property tax? ›

Unfortunately, there are no states without a property tax. Property taxes remain a significant contributor to overall state income. Tax funds are used to operate and maintain essential government services like law enforcement, infrastructure, education, transportation, parks, water and sewer service improvements.

How much Social Security will I get if I make $25000 a year? ›

What is the Social Security payment for a salary over 25,000 dollars? For people who are earning 25,000 dollars across the year rather than the previously mentioned amount, 1,880 dollars of the benefits would have to be withheld, so the monthly benefit amount is 1,886 dollars.

How much Social Security will I get if I make $75000 a year? ›

If you earn $75,000 per year, you can expect to receive $2,358 per month -- or about $28,300 annually -- from Social Security.

Does your Social Security check get taxed? ›

Some of you have to pay federal income taxes on your Social Security benefits. This usually happens only if you have other substantial income in addition to your benefits (such as wages, self-employment, interest, dividends and other taxable income that must be reported on your tax return).

What are the cons of living in a state with no income tax? ›

Some of the cons of living in a state with no income tax are higher sales or property taxes, reduced government services, and limited tax deductions. These drawbacks can significantly impact your quality of life and your ability to save money.

Do I have to file taxes in two states if I moved? ›

You'll likely file a part-year resident return in both states. Usually, you'll have to file a state return in any states where you: Have earned income from wages or self-employment.

Is it bad to not file state taxes? ›

Consequences of not filing

State tax penalties can be just as harsh as those imposed by the IRS. In the most severe cases, the state can even prosecute you for a crime if it believes that your failure to file tax returns was part of a fraudulent scheme. Just like other crimes, the punishment can include time in jail.

What states have no tax on Social Security? ›

States That Don't Tax Social Security
  • Alaska.
  • Florida.
  • Nevada.
  • New Hampshire.
  • South Dakota.
  • Tennessee.
  • Texas.
  • Washington.
4 days ago

How does Tennessee not have income tax? ›

Because Tennessee taxes do not include personal income, individuals are not subject to income tax on earnings.

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