Side-by-side tax comparison between Minnesota (9.85% top rate, graduated) and Wisconsin (7.65% 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 Wisconsin has a graduated system (3.5-7.65%). On a $100K salary, Minnesota takes $6,402 in state and local taxes compared to Wisconsin’s $4,973 \u2014 a difference of $1,430.
Both states use graduated brackets, but Minnesota’s top rate of 9.85% is higher than Wisconsin’s 7.65%.
Wisconsin wins at 10 out of 10 salary levels tested. The advantage exists but is modest across the income spectrum.
| Salary | Minnesota | Wisconsin | Difference | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $40K | $31,759 | $32,331 | +$572 | Wisconsin |
| $50K | $39,154 | $39,869 | +$715 | Wisconsin |
| $60K | $46,549 | $47,407 | +$858 | Wisconsin |
| $75K | $56,736 | $57,808 | +$1,073 | Wisconsin |
| $100K | $72,723 | $74,153 | +$1,430 | Wisconsin |
| $120K | $85,512 | $87,228 | +$1,716 | Wisconsin |
| $150K | $104,147 | $106,292 | +$2,145 | Wisconsin |
| $200K | $136,082 | $138,942 | +$2,860 | Wisconsin |
| $250K | $167,258 | $170,833 | +$3,575 | Wisconsin |
| $300K | $196,121 | $200,411 | +$4,290 | Wisconsin |
Take-home pay only tells part of the story. Minnesota has a cost of living index of 99 while Wisconsin is at 93 (national average = 100).
The cost of living gap is moderate. After adjustment, $100K has purchasing power of $73,457 in Minnesota vs $79,734 in Wisconsin. The take-home winner also wins on purchasing power.
For a single earner at $100K filing jointly, take-home becomes $78,308 in Minnesota and $79,738 in Wisconsin \u2014 a difference of $1,430. The gap remains similar regardless of filing status.
On paper, moving from Minnesota to Wisconsin would save $1,430/year on a $100K salary, or $7,150 over 5 years. But relocation involves real costs: moving expenses, potentially buying/selling a home, changing jobs, and adjusting to a new community.
At $1,430/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.