Take-home pay by salary
| Salary | Virginia | North Carolina | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| $50,000 | $40,294 | $40,869 | −$575 North Carolina |
| $75,000 | $58,094 | $59,109 | −$1,015 North Carolina |
| $100,000 | $74,244 | $75,699 | −$1,455 North Carolina |
| $150,000 | $105,980 | $108,315 | −$2,335 North Carolina |
| $200,000 | $138,241 | $141,456 | −$3,215 North Carolina |
Single filer, standard deduction, wages only, no 401(k) or pre-tax benefits. Local income taxes (for example New York City or some Ohio and Pennsylvania cities) are not included.
Where the difference comes from
Federal income tax, Social Security (6.2%) and Medicare (1.45%) are the same everywhere in the U.S., so the gap comes entirely from state income tax. On $75,000, state income tax is about $3,498 in Virginia and $2,484 in North Carolina.
- Virginia: 2%–5.75% income tax, with a 5.3% state sales tax (about 5.77% on average including local taxes).
- North Carolina: Flat 3.99% income tax, with a 4.75% state sales tax (about 7% on average including local taxes).
Income tax isn't the whole picture
States without an income tax often collect more through sales taxes, property taxes or fees, and housing costs can differ far more than taxes. Before moving, compare rent or home prices, property tax rates, car insurance, utilities and, if you work remotely, which state can tax your income. If you keep a job in one state while living in another, you may owe tax to both, usually with a credit to avoid paying twice.
For your exact numbers — including 401(k) contributions, pay frequency and filing status — use the Virginia and North Carolina paycheck calculators, or explore every state on our Money Map.
Frequently asked questions
Is Virginia or North Carolina better for take-home pay?
Does Virginia have state income tax?
Does North Carolina have state income tax?
What else should I compare besides income tax?
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