10 Least Tax-Friendly States for Middle-Class Families

Here’s what living in one of the least tax-friendly states for middle-class families costs residents.

Map of U.S. states made out of a $100 bill
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It’s no secret that many middle-class families are struggling. Higher grocery expenses and housing costs are major factors, but high tax burdens can make matters worse. If you live in one of the least tax-friendly states for middle-class families, you probably know this too well.

Least tax-friendly states for the middle-class 

Median salaries can differ greatly from state to state, so to determine which states have the highest tax burden for households with middle incomes, we considered each state’s median annual salary. Then, we calculated the average annual tax spent for three main tax categories: state income tax, property taxes, and sales taxes on essential items (groceries, diapers, and feminine hygiene products). 

  • We didn’t consider sales tax for states that don't tax essentials at the state level. 
  • It is important to note that local sales taxes may apply. 
  • (See below for full details about the methodology Kiplinger used to rank the states for this story.)

The states with the highest percentage of income spent on state taxes made our list. And here they are. 

Katelyn Washington
Tax Writer

Katelyn has more than 6 years’ experience working in tax and finance. While she specializes in tax content, Katelyn has also written for digital publications on topics including insurance, retirement and financial planning and has had financial advice commissioned by national print publications. She believes that knowledge is the key to success and enjoys helping others reach their goals by providing content that educates and informs.