State vs state · 2026
California vs Arizona: take-home pay compared (2026)
Arizona wins on take-home pay. A single worker earning $100,000 keeps $4,079 more per year in Arizona ($72,810 in California vs $76,889 in Arizona). The difference comes almost entirely from state income tax, because federal tax and FICA are the same everywhere.
Take-home pay at every salary level
Single filer, standard deduction, 2026 rates. Local city or county income taxes are not included.
| Salary | California | Arizona | Difference / yr | Better in |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $40,000 | $33,211 | $33,529 | $318 | Arizona |
| $60,000 | $47,961 | $49,099 | $1,138 | Arizona |
| $75,000 | $57,830 | $59,926 | $2,097 | Arizona |
| $100,000 | $72,810 | $76,889 | $4,079 | Arizona |
| $150,000 | $102,121 | $110,250 | $8,129 | Arizona |
| $200,000 | $131,957 | $144,136 | $12,179 | Arizona |
| $300,000 | $187,486 | $207,886 | $20,399 | Arizona |
How each state taxes income
| Feature | California | Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Tax type | Graduated | Flat |
| Top rate | 13.30% | 2.50% |
| Number of brackets | 10 | 1 |
| Deductions | a standard deduction of $5,540 (single) / $11,080 (married filing jointly), a personal credit of $153 / $306 | a standard deduction of $8,350 (single) / $16,700 (married filing jointly) |
| Local income tax | Generally no | Generally no |
The verdict
If you are deciding between California and Arizona purely on paycheck taxes, Arizona comes out ahead at every salary from $100,000 up, by $4,079 a year. Before moving, compare rent or home prices, property tax, sales tax and car insurance, which often matter as much as income tax for middle incomes.
Run your exact salary in the California paycheck calculator or the Arizona paycheck calculator.
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Frequently asked questions
Is California or Arizona better for take-home pay?
Arizona leaves you more money. On a $100,000 salary you keep $4,079 more per year ($340 a month) in Arizona, based on 2026 state income tax for a single filer.
How much more tax do you pay in California than Arizona?
California has a graduated income tax with 10 brackets, from 1% up to 13.3% for single filers. Arizona taxes wages at a flat 2.5% rate. The gap widens as income rises: at $200,000 it is $12,179 a year.
Does this include property and sales tax?
No. This comparison covers taxes withheld from pay: federal income tax, FICA and state income tax. Sales, property and local taxes can narrow or widen the gap, so factor in housing costs before moving.
Disclaimer: These are estimates based on published tax rates for a single employee with standard deductions and no other income. Your actual pay depends on your tax code, benefits, credits and local taxes. This site is for information only and is not financial, tax or legal advice. Check with your tax authority or a qualified professional before making decisions.