Side-by-side tax comparison between Connecticut (6.99% top rate, graduated) and Vermont (8.75% 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 Vermont has a graduated system (3.35-8.75%). On a $100K salary, Connecticut takes $4,544 in state and local taxes compared to Vermont’s $5,688 \u2014 a difference of $1,144.
Both states use graduated brackets, but Vermont’s top rate of 8.75% 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 | Vermont | Difference | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $40K | $32,503 | $32,045 | −$458 | Connecticut |
| $50K | $40,083 | $39,511 | −$572 | Connecticut |
| $60K | $47,664 | $46,978 | −$686 | Connecticut |
| $75K | $58,130 | $57,272 | −$858 | Connecticut |
| $100K | $74,582 | $73,438 | −$1,144 | Connecticut |
| $120K | $87,743 | $86,370 | −$1,373 | Connecticut |
| $150K | $106,936 | $105,220 | −$1,716 | Connecticut |
| $200K | $139,800 | $137,512 | −$2,288 | Connecticut |
| $250K | $171,905 | $169,045 | −$2,860 | Connecticut |
| $300K | $201,698 | $198,266 | −$3,432 | Connecticut |
Take-home pay only tells part of the story. Connecticut has a cost of living index of 111 while Vermont is at 105 (national average = 100).
The cost of living gap is moderate. After adjustment, $100K has purchasing power of $67,191 in Connecticut vs $69,940 in Vermont. However, Vermont 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 $79,023 in Vermont \u2014 a difference of $1,144. The gap remains similar regardless of filing status.
On paper, moving from Vermont to Connecticut would save $1,144/year on a $100K salary, or $5,720 over 5 years. But relocation involves real costs: moving expenses, potentially buying/selling a home, changing jobs, and adjusting to a new community.
At $1,144/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.