Side-by-side tax comparison between Connecticut (6.99% top rate, graduated) and Delaware (6.6% top rate, graduated). See which state lets you keep more at every salary level, and how cost of living changes the picture.
Connecticut uses a graduated income tax (3-6.99%) while Delaware has a graduated system (2.2-6.6%). On a $100K salary, Connecticut takes $4,544 in state and local taxes compared to Delaware’s $5,790 \u2014 a difference of $1,247.
Both states use graduated brackets, but Connecticut’s top rate of 6.99% is higher than Delaware’s 6.6%.
Delaware also has local income taxes (estimated at $1,500/year on $100K), which Connecticut does not.
Connecticut wins at 10 out of 10 salary levels tested. The advantage exists but is modest across the income spectrum.
| Salary | Connecticut | Delaware | Difference | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $40K | $32,503 | $32,004 | −$499 | Connecticut |
| $50K | $40,083 | $39,460 | −$623 | Connecticut |
| $60K | $47,664 | $46,916 | −$748 | Connecticut |
| $75K | $58,130 | $57,195 | −$935 | Connecticut |
| $100K | $74,582 | $73,335 | −$1,247 | Connecticut |
| $120K | $87,743 | $86,247 | −$1,496 | Connecticut |
| $150K | $106,936 | $105,066 | −$1,870 | Connecticut |
| $200K | $139,800 | $137,307 | −$2,493 | Connecticut |
| $250K | $171,905 | $168,789 | −$3,116 | Connecticut |
| $300K | $201,698 | $197,959 | −$3,740 | Connecticut |
Take-home pay only tells part of the story. Connecticut has a cost of living index of 111 while Delaware is at 102 (national average = 100).
The cost of living gap is moderate. After adjustment, $100K has purchasing power of $67,191 in Connecticut vs $71,897 in Delaware. However, Delaware actually provides better purchasing power despite Connecticut’s take-home advantage.
For a single earner at $100K filing jointly, take-home becomes $80,167 in Connecticut and $78,920 in Delaware \u2014 a difference of $1,247. The gap remains similar regardless of filing status.
On paper, moving from Delaware to Connecticut would save $1,247/year on a $100K salary, or $6,233 over 5 years. But relocation involves real costs: moving expenses, potentially buying/selling a home, changing jobs, and adjusting to a new community.
At $1,247/year, the tax difference alone likely isn’t worth relocating for. Other factors — job market, lifestyle, family — should drive the decision. The tax savings are a nice bonus if you’re already considering the move for other reasons.