What It Takes to Bring Home $100K in Every State —After Taxes

Do you know how much money you need to earn in each state to actually take home $100,000? It’s not just about making six figures; taxes can take a big bite out of your paycheck. 

To find out the exact salary you would need to earn in each state after taxes, here’s the math for you.

1. Alabama

Alabama’s job market is as diverse as its barbecue recipes. From building cars in the Motor City of Birmingham to healing patients in the bustling hospitals of Montgomery, there’s no shortage of opportunities.

The working conditions may vary, but many employers strive for a happy balance between work and play. 

• Salary needed for $100K: $145,515
• Take home salary: 68.7%

2. Alaska

Alaska has a bounty of unique jobs, such as drilling for black gold in Prudhoe Bay and guiding tourists through Denali. But don’t expect it to be easy.

You’ll need the endurance to tackle the long hours and remote locations. That said, the breathtaking scenery and close-knit communities offer a different kind of reward.

• Salary needed for $100K: $137,575
• Take home salary: 72.7%

3. Arizona

Arizona has a thriving job scene, where tech start-ups and healthcare hubs are aplenty. The cities of Phoenix and Tucson are more than just a winter retreat for snowbirds—they’re also fertile ground for career growth and opportunities.

• Salary needed for $100K: $142,935
• Take home salary: 70%

4. Arkansas

Arkansas may be known for its bountiful fields and vibrant music scene, but it’s also a hub of steady, satisfying work. The state is a hotbed of opportunity in agriculture, manufacturing, and retail.

Also, many Arkansas companies prioritize the well-being of their workers, just as much as they do the quality of their crops and goods. 

• Salary needed for $100K: $148,570
• Take home salary: 67.3%

5. California

California has a diverse job market, from Silicon Valley’s tech innovation to Hollywood’s glitz and glamor, and even the agricultural bounty of the Central Valley.

Californians do face stiff competition in the job market and a cost of living that can be as steep as the San Francisco hills.

• Salary needed for $100K: $153,700
• Take home salary: 65.1%

6. Colorado

In Colorado, job opportunities are abundant in fields like healthcare, technology, and outdoor recreation. The state is known for its strong focus on work-life balance and employee well-being, making it a great place to work.

• Salary needed for $100K: $146,460
• Take home salary: 68.3%

7. Connecticut

Connecticut’s economy is a mix of finance, healthcare, and education. But with a high cost of living, the Nutmeg State isn’t cheap.

Connecticut’s career scene can be worth the price of admission for those willing to brave the high prices. 

• Salary needed for $100K: $149,100
• Take home salary: 67.1%

8. Delaware

From the bustling banks of Wilmington to the life-saving research labs of Christiana Care, Delaware’s economy is a lively mix of finance, healthcare, and manufacturing.

And with companies putting a heavy emphasis on employee support and development, the state shines for those who value a supportive work environment.

• Salary needed for $100K: $149,545
• Take home salary: 66.9%

9. Florida

Florida’s economy is a rainbow of opportunity. Just look at the thriving startups, vibrant entertainment scenes, and bustling hospitals of Orlando.

And with zero state income tax, (ref) you can keep more of your hard-earned cash, whether you’re sipping mojitos on South Beach or splashing in the Gulf Coast surf.

• Salary needed for $100K: $137,290
• Take home salary: 72.8%

10. Georgia

The tech-savvy hubs of Atlanta, the rolling green pastures of the countryside—it’s evident that Georgia’s economy is a Southern-fried mix of technology, film, and agriculture.

Georgia-based companies are putting employee well-being first, and you can enjoy the perks of flexible working conditions and a laid-back work culture.

• Salary needed for $100K: $148,750
• Take home salary: 67.3%

11. Hawaii

While tourism reigns supreme on the sandy beaches of Waikiki and the rolling hills of Maui, agriculture and education are also key players in the local economy.

But here’s the catch: the high cost of living in Hawaii is like a tidal wave, ready to crash over your wallet at any moment.

• Salary needed for $100K: $154,165
• Take home salary: 64.9%

12. Idaho

Already a growing job market, especially in technology, healthcare, and agriculture sectors, Idaho’s working conditions are often friendly and supportive, with many employers focusing on employee happiness.

• Salary needed for $100K: $147,315
• Take home salary: 67.9%

13. Illinois

With job opportunities left and right in industries like finance, healthcare, and manufacturing, Illinois is thriving, particularly in urban cities like Chicago.

While many companies provide good working conditions, the cost of living can vary across the state.

• Salary needed for $100K: $147,750
• Take home salary: 67.7%

14. Indiana

Indiana’s highway of opportunity can be found in the manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture sectors.

Its cost of living is friendly and affordable, so you’ll have plenty of room in your pocket for breaded tenderloins and trips to the basketball hall of fame.

• Salary needed for $100K: $148,975
• Take home salary: 67.1%

15. Iowa

Iowa’s job market is as steady and stable as harvesting corn in a golden Midwestern field.

With roots deep in agriculture, education, and healthcare, the state offers a work-life balance and a cost of living that’s more affordable compared to other states. 

• Salary needed for $100K: $148,700
• Take home salary: 67.3%

16. Kansas

With ample opportunities in agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare, the state offers plenty of career paths to choose from.

Kansas-based companies do take employee satisfaction seriously so you can rest easy knowing you’ll be treated right in the heartland.

• Salary needed for $100K: $148,400
• Take home salary: 67.4%

17. Kentucky

Kentucky’s job market provides opportunities in healthcare, manufacturing, and agriculture. From the metropolitan Louisville to the rolling hills of the Appalachian region, the experience of working in Kentucky is varied.

Surprisingly, the state has one of the highest costs of living compared to other states. 

• Salary needed for $100K: $150,000
• Take home salary: 66.7%

18. Louisiana

In Louisiana, tourism, healthcare, and energy lead the way, where you can sink your teeth into a diverse array of careers. Employers also value work-life balance. Plus, the cost of living here is lower than most states in this list. 

• Salary needed for $100K: $145,340
• Take home salary: 68.8%

19. Maine

Maine is a trove of job opportunities, especially in healthcare, education, and tourism. Many employers here truly value work-life balance and foster a supportive community.

Although Maine has a higher cost of living, its working environment is welcoming. 

• Salary needed for $100K: $151,640
• Take home salary: 66%

20. Maryland

Maryland has a robust job market, especially in technology, healthcare, and education. While the working conditions are often good, the cost of living can be quite high, which can affect overall salary needs.

• Salary needed for $100K: $154,850
• Take home salary: 64.6%

21. Massachusetts

Massachusetts is a hub of opportunity, buzzing with energy in education, healthcare, and technology.

With a focus on creating a positive work environment, Massachusetts not only boosts careers but also inspires passion and innovation. 

• Salary needed for $100K: $147,565
• Take home salary: 67.8%

22. Michigan

Home to the Motor City and a rich history in manufacturing, this Michigan also boasts booming tech and healthcare sectors.

With 250,000 professionals in the skilled trades, Michigan boasts one of the top 10 skilled trades workforces in the country. (ref)

• Salary needed for $100K: $146,080
• Take home salary: 68.5%

23. Minnesota

With a thriving healthcare industry, top-notch educational institutions, and a high-tech economy, you’re sure to find a career path in Minnesota.

Joining Minnesota’s workforce means immersing yourself in a culture of support and community spirit, making you feel like part of a big family—it’s all about that famous Minnesota Nice!

• Salary needed for $100K: $150,765
• Take home salary: 66.3%

24. Mississippi

Mississippi offers jobs mainly in agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare, with many opportunities for workers looking to grow.

The state is known for its warm hospitality, and working conditions are generally supportive and family-oriented.

• Salary needed for $100K: $147,000
• Take home salary: 68%

25. Missouri

Missouri has a growing job market, particularly in healthcare, manufacturing, and education. Many workers appreciate the balance between work and life, as employers often promote a friendly and supportive workplace culture.

• Salary needed for $100K: $147,030
• Take home salary: 68%

26. Montana

Montana offers unique job opportunities in industries like agriculture, tourism, and energy.

Workers in the state enjoy a laid-back lifestyle, with employers focusing on good working conditions amidst stunning natural beauty.

• Salary needed for $100K: $150,750
• Take home salary: 66.3%

27. Nebraska

With a focus on agriculture, healthcare, and education, this prairie state knows how to cultivate a community spirit that’ll make you feel right at home.

Ranked as one of America’s top 10 states for business, (ref) the work climate in Nebraska is often positive, with many companies valuing community ties and employee well-being.

• Salary needed for $100K: $149,700
• Take home salary: 66.8%

28. Nevada

Nevada has a diverse job market, especially in tourism, entertainment, and healthcare.

The state is known for its vibrant culture, and many workers enjoy favorable working conditions with no state income tax, allowing for more take-home pay.

• Salary needed for $100K: $137,290
• Take home salary: 72.8%

29. New Hampshire

New Hampshire has a strong job market, especially in healthcare, education, and manufacturing.

The state is known for its supportive working conditions, allowing employees to enjoy a great work-life balance while being surrounded by beautiful scenery.

• Salary needed for $100K: $137,290
• Take home salary: 72.8%

30. New Jersey

New Jersey has a robust job market with opportunities in healthcare, education, and finance, especially in urban areas like Newark and Jersey City.

Workers benefit from a diverse environment and good working conditions, often enjoying a mix of suburban and city life that enhances their overall experience.

• Salary needed for $100K: $148,135
• Take home salary: 67.5%

31. New Mexico

In New Mexico, job opportunities are flourishing in fields like healthcare, education, and energy. What really sets this state apart is the vibrant mix of culture and stunning landscapes.

People here enjoy a welcoming, tight-knit community vibe that makes it a great place to work.

• Salary needed for $100K: $146,250
• Take home salary: 68.4%

32. New York

New York offers a world of job opportunities, especially in finance, tech, and the creative fields, with cities like New York City at the heart of it all.

While the hustle can be intense, many thrive on the energy and excitement, finding the fast pace both challenging and incredibly rewarding.

• Salary needed for $100K: $149,535
• Take home salary: 66.9%

33. North Carolina

Its booming job market, especially in tech, healthcare, and finance, offers plenty of opportunities for workers. People in North Carolina not only enjoy solid careers but also a welcoming vibe.

With its stunning landscapes, from mountains to coastlines, it’s a place where you can build a rewarding career and live in a beautiful environment.

• Salary needed for $100K: $146,900
• Take home salary: 68.1%

34. North Dakota

The job market in North Dakota is bustling, particularly in the energy, agriculture, and healthcare sectors leading the charge. There’s no shortage of opportunities to dig into.

When you join the workforce, you’ll discover a workplace culture that’s friendly and community-oriented. 

• Salary needed for $100K: $140,960
• Take home salary: 70.9%

35. Ohio

Ohio is a place where job opportunities are as diverse as the people who live there. From manufacturing and healthcare to finance, workers can find solid careers across various industries.

Employers often prioritize employee well-being and staying active in the community.

• Salary needed for $100K: $145,450
• Take home salary: 68.7%

36. Oklahoma

Oklahoma’s job market is on the rise, especially in energy, agriculture, and healthcare. The work environment is welcoming and supportive, making it easy to feel at home while building a career here.

• Salary needed for $100K: $146,700
• Take home salary: 68.2%

37. Oregon

Oregon is a hub for opportunity, especially in tech, healthcare, and agriculture, with cities like Portland leading the way. The work culture here leans progressive, with many employers focused on sustainability and a healthy work-life balance.

While the cost of living can be higher, the trade-off is a forward-thinking, supportive environment where both careers and personal well-being thrive.

• Salary needed for $100K: $156,280
• Take home salary: 64%

38. Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania’s diverse economy, opportunities abound in manufacturing, healthcare, and education, offering something for workers in many fields.

The focus on employee well-being and community engagement is common across sectors.

• Salary needed for $100K: $146,165
• Take home salary: 68.4%

39. Rhode Island

Rhode Island’s job opportunities are usually found in healthcare, education, and manufacturing. This ocean state offers a blend of careers—from the bustling halls of Rhode Island Hospital to the vibrant classrooms of Brown University. 

• Salary needed for $100K: $146,900
• Take home salary: 68.1%

40. South Carolina

In South Carolina, you’ll find opportunities in manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism. Workers here enjoy more than just good careers—it’s a place where strong community ties and a friendly vibe go hand in hand with professional growth.

• Salary needed for $100K: $151,080
• Take home salary: 66.2%

41. South Dakota

Mount Rushmore may be the face of South Dakota, but the state’s job market is as diverse as the Black Hills themselves. You’ll find job opportunities in agriculture, healthcare, and tourism that’ll keep you on your toes.

The workplace climate is welcoming, where you’ll find a tight-knit community of coworkers. Besides, the lower cost of living is appealing to many. 

• Salary needed for $100K: $137,290
• Take home salary: 72.8%

42. Tennessee

Tennessee’s healthcare, manufacturing, and tourism are creating job opportunities, especially in cities like Nashville and Memphis.

Many workers enjoy positive working conditions and a vibrant cultural scene, making it an attractive place to live and work.

• Salary needed for $100K: $137,290
• Take home salary: 72.8%

43. Texas

Texas boasts a thriving job market, especially in tech, energy, and healthcare, with cities like Austin and Houston ramping up the job scene. Workers benefit from environments that foster innovation, offer flexibility, and cultivate a strong sense of community.

It’s a place where ambition meets support, making Texas a dynamic choice for professionals.

• Salary needed for $100K: $137,290
• Take home salary: 72.8%

44. Utah

Utah is buzzing with possibilities, with opportunities in technology, healthcare, and outdoor recreation that’ll make you feel like you’re scaling a mountain of opportunity.

The state has a focus on work-life balance and a strong sense of community. You’ll feel right at home, whether you’re coding in a downtown office or hitting the slopes in Park City.

• Salary needed for $100K: $147,725
• Take home salary: 67.7%

45. Vermont

Vermont offers jobs primarily in healthcare, education, and tourism, with a strong emphasis on community and environmental sustainability.

The working conditions are generally pleasant, and many employees appreciate the state’s beautiful natural surroundings and friendly atmosphere.

• Salary needed for $100K: $149,800
• Take home salary: 66.8%

46. Virginia

In Virginia, a diverse economy thrives with opportunities in government, defense, tech, and healthcare, especially near Washington, D.C. Workers here enjoy more than just good jobs—Virginia offers a unique blend of city convenience and rural charm.

The state is known for supportive work environments that make it a great place to build a career.

• Salary needed for $100K: $148,520
• Take home salary: 67.3%

47. Washington

Washington is known for its robust job market in technology, aerospace, and agriculture, with major companies like Amazon and Microsoft located there.

Workers often enjoy positive working conditions, a vibrant cultural scene, and beautiful landscapes that enhance their overall quality of life.

• Salary needed for $100K: $137,290
• Take home salary: 72.8%

48. West Virginia

West Virginia may be known for its mountains, coal, and bluegrass music, but its job market is a hidden gem just waiting to be unearthed.

The sense of community and camaraderie is strong, and with a slower pace of life, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the wild and wonderful state of West Virginia. 

• Salary needed for $100K: $149,445
• Take home salary: 66.9%

49. Wisconsin

Wisconsin shines with a vibrant mix of job opportunities in manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare, especially in bustling cities like Milwaukee and Madison.

Here, workers thrive in a welcoming atmosphere that values community and family. 

• Salary needed for $100K: $148,200
• Take home salary: 67.5%

50. Wyoming

Wyoming offers job opportunities mainly in energy, tourism, and agriculture, with a focus on outdoor activities and natural beauty.

The working conditions are often relaxed, and employees appreciate the state’s low population density, low cost of living, and strong sense of community.

• Salary needed for $100K: $137,290
• Take home salary: 72.8%

With taxes varying from one state to another, understanding these differences can help you make better choices about where to live and work.