Side-by-side tax comparison between Minnesota (9.85% top rate, graduated) and New York (10.9% top rate, graduated). See which state lets you keep more at every salary level, and how cost of living changes the picture.
Minnesota uses a graduated income tax (5.35-9.85%) while New York has a graduated system (4-10.9% + NYC local). On a $100K salary, Minnesota takes $6,402 in state and local taxes compared to New York’s $7,085 \u2014 a difference of $683.
Both states use graduated brackets, but New York’s top rate of 10.9% is higher than Minnesota’s 9.85%.
New York also has local income taxes (estimated at $0/year on $100K), which Minnesota does not.
Minnesota wins at 10 out of 10 salary levels tested. The advantage exists but is modest across the income spectrum.
| Salary | Minnesota | New York | Difference | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $40K | $31,759 | $31,486 | −$273 | Minnesota |
| $50K | $39,154 | $38,813 | −$341 | Minnesota |
| $60K | $46,549 | $46,139 | −$410 | Minnesota |
| $75K | $56,736 | $56,224 | −$512 | Minnesota |
| $100K | $72,723 | $72,040 | −$683 | Minnesota |
| $120K | $85,512 | $84,693 | −$819 | Minnesota |
| $150K | $104,147 | $103,124 | −$1,024 | Minnesota |
| $200K | $136,082 | $134,717 | −$1,365 | Minnesota |
| $250K | $167,258 | $165,552 | −$1,706 | Minnesota |
| $300K | $196,121 | $194,074 | −$2,048 | Minnesota |
Take-home pay only tells part of the story. Minnesota has a cost of living index of 99 while New York is at 125 (national average = 100).
This is a substantial difference. After adjusting for cost of living, $100K in Minnesota has purchasing power of $73,457 compared to $57,632 in New York. Minnesota wins on both raw take-home and cost-adjusted purchasing power, making it the clear winner for a $100K earner.
For a single earner at $100K filing jointly, take-home becomes $78,308 in Minnesota and $77,625 in New York \u2014 a difference of $683. The gap remains similar regardless of filing status.
On paper, moving from New York to Minnesota would save $683/year on a $100K salary, or $3,413 over 5 years. But relocation involves real costs: moving expenses, potentially buying/selling a home, changing jobs, and adjusting to a new community.
At $683/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.