Massachusetts vs Pennsylvania Paycheck Comparison 2026

At a $100,000 salary, Pennsylvania results in $1,930 more annual take-home pay. Massachusetts uses a progressive income tax with 2 brackets ranging from 5.00% to 9.00%. Pennsylvania has a flat state income tax of 3.07%. All taxable income is taxed at the same rate.

The difference depends on salary. At $50,000, the gap is $965/yr. At $150,000, it grows to $2,895/yr. At $300,000, the difference is $5,790/yr.

Yes. Federal income tax, Social Security, and Medicare are the same in every state. Only state income tax differs. This calculator shows the combined effect of federal and state taxes on your take-home pay.

Pennsylvania is cheaper to live in. Cost of living in Massachusetts is 13% higher than in Pennsylvania. Massachusetts's Regional Price Parity is 110.8 and Pennsylvania's is 98 (US average = 100).

Yes. Pennsylvania has a lower cost of living than Massachusetts (index 98 vs 110.8). Housing is typically the biggest difference between the two states.

Yes. Massachusetts has a higher cost of living (index 110.8) compared to Pennsylvania (index 98). The national average is 100. Housing costs are typically the largest driver of the difference.

At a $100,000 salary, take-home pay of $74,180 in Massachusetts has the purchasing power of $83,869 in Pennsylvania terms. Conversely, $76,110 in Pennsylvania equals $67,318 in Massachusetts terms. After adjusting for both taxes and cost of living, Massachusetts comes out ahead.

The overall cost of living is 13% different between Massachusetts and Pennsylvania. Living costs are 11% above the national average Living costs are about 2% below the national average After taxes and cost of living, Massachusetts gives you more purchasing power on a $100,000 salary.

Massachusetts requires residents to file a state income tax return annually, typically due April 15. Pennsylvania requires residents to file a state income tax return annually, typically due April 15. If you move between states mid-year, you typically file a part-year resident return in each state for the income earned while living there. Each state has its own tax return form — check your state's department of revenue website for the correct form and e-filing options.