Side-by-side tax comparison between Connecticut (6.99% top rate, graduated) and Minnesota (9.85% 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 Minnesota has a graduated system (5.35-9.85%). On a $100K salary, Connecticut takes $4,544 in state and local taxes compared to Minnesota’s $6,402 \u2014 a difference of $1,859.
Both states use graduated brackets, but Minnesota’s top rate of 9.85% is higher than Connecticut’s 6.99%.
Connecticut wins at 10 out of 10 salary levels tested. The advantage exists but is modest across the income spectrum.
| Salary | Connecticut | Minnesota | Difference | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $40K | $32,503 | $31,759 | −$744 | Connecticut |
| $50K | $40,083 | $39,154 | −$930 | Connecticut |
| $60K | $47,664 | $46,549 | −$1,115 | Connecticut |
| $75K | $58,130 | $56,736 | −$1,394 | Connecticut |
| $100K | $74,582 | $72,723 | −$1,859 | Connecticut |
| $120K | $87,743 | $85,512 | −$2,231 | Connecticut |
| $150K | $106,936 | $104,147 | −$2,789 | Connecticut |
| $200K | $139,800 | $136,082 | −$3,718 | Connecticut |
| $250K | $171,905 | $167,258 | −$4,648 | Connecticut |
| $300K | $201,698 | $196,121 | −$5,577 | Connecticut |
Take-home pay only tells part of the story. Connecticut has a cost of living index of 111 while Minnesota is at 99 (national average = 100).
The cost of living gap is moderate. After adjustment, $100K has purchasing power of $67,191 in Connecticut vs $73,457 in Minnesota. However, Minnesota 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 $78,308 in Minnesota \u2014 a difference of $1,859. The gap remains similar regardless of filing status.
On paper, moving from Minnesota to Connecticut would save $1,859/year on a $100K salary, or $9,295 over 5 years. But relocation involves real costs: moving expenses, potentially buying/selling a home, changing jobs, and adjusting to a new community.
At $1,859/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.