State vs state · 2026
Pennsylvania vs New Jersey: take-home pay compared (2026)
Pennsylvania wins on take-home pay. A single worker earning $100,000 keeps $1,112 more per year in Pennsylvania ($76,110 in Pennsylvania vs $74,998 in New Jersey). 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 | Pennsylvania | New Jersey | Difference / yr | Better in |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $40,000 | $33,092 | $33,638 | $546 | New Jersey |
| $60,000 | $48,548 | $48,622 | $74 | New Jersey |
| $75,000 | $59,290 | $58,995 | $295 | Pennsylvania |
| $100,000 | $76,110 | $74,998 | $1,112 | Pennsylvania |
| $150,000 | $109,186 | $106,424 | $2,762 | Pennsylvania |
| $200,000 | $142,787 | $138,375 | $4,412 | Pennsylvania |
| $300,000 | $205,967 | $198,255 | $7,712 | Pennsylvania |
How each state taxes income
| Feature | Pennsylvania | New Jersey |
|---|---|---|
| Tax type | Flat | Graduated |
| Top rate | 3.07% | 10.75% |
| Number of brackets | 1 | 7 |
| Deductions | no standard deduction or personal exemption | a personal exemption of $1,000 / $2,000 |
| Local income tax | Yes, in some areas | Yes, in some areas |
The verdict
If you are deciding between Pennsylvania and New Jersey purely on paycheck taxes, Pennsylvania comes out ahead at every salary from $100,000 up, by $1,112 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 Pennsylvania paycheck calculator or the New Jersey paycheck calculator.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Pennsylvania or New Jersey better for take-home pay?
Pennsylvania leaves you more money. On a $100,000 salary you keep $1,112 more per year ($93 a month) in Pennsylvania, based on 2026 state income tax for a single filer.
How much more tax do you pay in Pennsylvania than New Jersey?
Pennsylvania taxes wages at a flat 3.07% rate. New Jersey has a graduated income tax with 7 brackets, from 1.4% up to 10.75% for single filers. The gap widens as income rises: at $200,000 it is $4,412 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.