Florida
No state attracted more high-earning households than the Sunshine State.
According to SmartAsset, Florida added 32,019 tax filers who reported at least $200,000 in income in 2020. While the state also lost 11,756 such filers during the year, the end result was a net gain of 20,263 high-income filers.
One of the ultra-high earners who moved to Florida was billionaire activist investor Carl Icahn. The 86-year-old was born in New York City and had run his business from the city for decades. He relocated his office to Sunny Isles Beach, Florida in 2020.
An obvious advantage of moving to Florida — especially for those who live in the Snowbelt — is the weather. But the main reason why Florida is the top destination for high earners could be financial: it’s one of the few states in the country that doesn’t charge its residents state income taxes.
Capital One Shopping’s browser add-on automatically applies coupon codes as you shop online. It’s absolutely free – plus it takes only two clicks to install. Add the Capital One Shopping browser extension today and start earning discounts of up to 50% on the things you already buy.
Install for FreeTexas
Texas is another warm state that does not have a state income tax. So it’s no surprise that high-income households are flocking to it.
In 2020, 18,417 tax filers who made at least $200,000 moved to Texas, while 13,061 high-earning filers left it. Simple math shows a net gain of 5,356 high-income households for the Lone Star State.
Other than the absence of a state income tax, Texas also attracts newcomers with its reasonable cost of living. The typical home value in Texas is $315,831 according to real estate marketplace Zillow, which is lower than the national average of $357,589. New York City, on the other hand, has a typical home value of $782,640.
At the same time, Texas boasts a booming economy and plenty of job opportunities. According to the Texas Workforce Commission, the state leads the nation for the fastest annual jobs growth rate at 5.4% from October 2021 to October 2022.
More: First-time homebuyer programs in Texas
Arizona
With a net gain of 5,268 tax filers with at least $200,000 in income in 2020, Arizona is the third most popular destination for high-earning migrants.
Arizona does have a state income tax, but it’s moving towards a 2.5% percent flat tax rate for tax year 2023. Once the new rate comes into effect, the state will have the lowest flat tax in the country.
“It’s time to deliver lasting tax relief to Arizona families and small businesses so they can keep more of their hard-earned money,” says Governor Doug Ducey. “This tax relief keeps Arizona competitive and preserves our reputation as a jobs magnet and generator of opportunity.”
One last thing: while Florida is known as the Sunshine State, Arizona actually gets the most sun. It receives an annual average sunlight of 5,755 kJ per square meter — more than any other state in the country.
Sponsored
Kiss Your Credit Card Debt Goodbye
Millions of Americans are struggling to crawl out of debt in the face of record-high interest rates. A personal loan offers lower interest rates and fixed payments, making it a smart choice to consolidate high-interest credit card debt. It helps save money, simplifies payments, and accelerates debt payoff. Credible is a free online service that shows you the best lending options to pay off your credit card debt fast — and save a ton in interest.
