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 $4,290 \u2014 a difference of $254.
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 $0/year on $100K), which Connecticut does not.
Delaware 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 | $32,604 | +$101 | Delaware |
| $50K | $40,083 | $40,210 | +$127 | Delaware |
| $60K | $47,664 | $47,816 | +$152 | Delaware |
| $75K | $58,130 | $58,320 | +$190 | Delaware |
| $100K | $74,582 | $74,835 | +$254 | Delaware |
| $120K | $87,743 | $88,047 | +$304 | Delaware |
| $150K | $106,936 | $107,316 | +$380 | Delaware |
| $200K | $139,800 | $140,307 | +$507 | Delaware |
| $250K | $171,905 | $172,539 | +$634 | Delaware |
| $300K | $201,698 | $202,459 | +$761 | Delaware |
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 $73,368 in Delaware. The take-home winner also wins on purchasing power.
For a single earner at $100K filing jointly, take-home becomes $80,167 in Connecticut and $80,420 in Delaware \u2014 a difference of $254. The gap remains similar regardless of filing status.
On paper, moving from Connecticut to Delaware would save $254/year on a $100K salary, or $1,268 over 5 years. But relocation involves real costs: moving expenses, potentially buying/selling a home, changing jobs, and adjusting to a new community.
At $254/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.