5 progressive tax brackets from 3.35% to 8.75%
Vermont uses a progressive income tax system with 5 brackets ranging from 3.35% to 8.75%. A $75,000 earner pays approximately $3,455 in state income tax (4.6% effective rate). The top rate of 8.75% applies to income over $279,450, making Vermont's top rate the 12th highest nationally.
Vermont operates a progressive income tax system with rates ranging from 3.35% to 8.75% across 5 tax brackets. As the Green Mountain State, Vermont combines scenic rural beauty with one of the nation's more progressive tax structures, ranking 12th highest for top marginal rates nationally.
For 2026, Vermont's tax brackets remain structured to collect higher rates from upper-income earners while maintaining relatively modest rates for low and middle-income residents. A single filer earning $50,000 pays approximately $1,824 in state income tax (3.65% effective rate), while a $100,000 earner pays around $6,186 (6.19% effective rate). The state's highest bracket of 8.75% applies to income exceeding $279,450.
Vermont's tax revenue funds extensive public services including universal healthcare programs, strong public education systems, and robust environmental protections. The state consistently ranks among the nation's leaders in quality of life metrics, healthcare access, and environmental stewardship—outcomes directly tied to its progressive taxation approach.
However, Vermont faces significant demographic challenges. U.S. Census Bureau data shows the state experiencing net domestic out-migration, with residents frequently relocating to states with lower tax burdens like Florida, Texas, and North Carolina. The combination of higher income taxes (compared to regional competitors like New Hampshire's 0% rate), property taxes, and cost of living creates financial pressure particularly for retirees and remote workers who can maintain Vermont's quality of life elsewhere at lower cost.
Understanding Vermont's income tax structure is essential whether you're a current resident, considering relocation, or evaluating the state's competitiveness for remote work. Use our calculator below to estimate your exact Vermont state income tax liability for 2026, then explore our comparison tools to see how Vermont stacks up against other states.
| Taxable Income | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| $0 - $45,400 | 3.35% |
| $45,400 - $110,050 | 6.6% |
| $110,050 - $229,550 | 7.6% |
| $229,550 - $279,450 | 8.75% |
| Over $279,450 | 8.75% |
Note: These are marginal rates - you only pay the higher rate on income within each bracket.
Source: Vermont Department of Taxes
Here's what Vermont residents actually pay at different income levels (2026, single filer, standard deduction):
| Annual Income | Federal Tax | State Tax | Total Tax | Take-Home Pay | Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $50,000 | $4,166 | $1,824 | $5,990 | $44,010 | 12.0% |
| $75,000 | $8,486 | $3,455 | $11,941 | $63,059 | 15.9% |
| $100,000 | $14,260 | $6,186 | $20,446 | $79,554 | 20.4% |
| $150,000 | $24,436 | $11,026 | $35,462 | $114,538 | 23.6% |
| $300,000 | $69,602 | $24,151 | $93,753 | $206,247 | 31.3% |
Note: Includes federal and state income tax only. Does not include FICA (Social Security/Medicare), which adds 7.65% for employees.
Key takeaway: At $100K, Vermont takes $6,186 in state tax alone.
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Get Matched With a CPA →U.S. Census Bureau migration data reveals Vermont faces consistent net domestic out-migration, with the state losing residents to lower-tax destinations. The pattern is clear: Vermont's combination of higher income taxes, property taxes, and cost of living drives relocation particularly among retirees, remote workers, and young professionals.
Top destinations for Vermont residents leaving the state:
The math behind the exodus: A Vermont resident earning $100,000 pays $6,186 in state income tax. Moving to Florida or Texas eliminates this entirely—a $6,186 annual savings ($61,860 over 10 years). Even moving to North Carolina (flat 4.5%) saves $1,686 annually. For retirees on fixed incomes, this difference is substantial.
What keeps people in Vermont: Despite tax disadvantages, Vermont retains residents through exceptional quality of life factors—pristine natural environment, strong sense of community, excellent schools, universal healthcare access, low crime rates, and progressive values. Many residents accept higher taxes as the price for Vermont's unique character and public services.
The remote work factor: The rise of remote work has accelerated Vermont's migration challenge. Workers who can maintain Vermont's quality of life while earning Vermont-level salaries from employers in any state now face a clear financial incentive to relocate to zero-tax states. A remote tech worker earning $150,000 saves $11,026 annually by moving to Florida while potentially keeping the same job and salary.
| State | Tax Rate | Tax on $100K Income | Difference from Vermont |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vermont | 3.35-8.75% | $6,186 | Baseline |
| New Hampshire | 0% | $0 | −$6,186 (save) |
| Massachusetts | 5.0% | $5,000 | +$1,186 (lower) |
| New York | 4.0-10.9% | $6,486 | +$300 (higher) |
| Florida | 0% | $0 | −$6,186 (save) |
Vermont vs neighboring states: Vermont's progressive tax structure places it at a competitive disadvantage within New England. Neighboring New Hampshire charges 0% income tax, creating a $6,186 annual savings for a $100,000 earner who crosses the border. Massachusetts uses a flat 5% rate ($5,000 on $100,000), making it more attractive than Vermont for middle and upper-income earners. New York has a higher top rate (10.9%) but comparable rates at $100,000 income.
The New Hampshire border effect: Vermont residents living near the New Hampshire border face particularly strong financial incentives to relocate. Moving across the Connecticut River from Vermont to New Hampshire eliminates state income tax entirely while maintaining access to Vermont's culture and amenities. This border effect drives significant migration from Vermont border towns to New Hampshire communities like Hanover, Lebanon, and West Lebanon.
Vermont vs zero-tax states: Compared to the 9 states with no income tax (Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, Wyoming), Vermont's 8.75% top rate represents a significant tax burden. A high-income earner making $300,000 pays $24,151 in Vermont—money that would remain in their pocket in a zero-tax state. However, property taxes in states like Texas (1.6% average) and sales taxes in others partially offset these income tax savings.
Best value proposition for Vermont: Vermont makes the most financial sense for residents who highly value its unique quality of life factors—environmental beauty, strong communities, progressive politics, outdoor recreation access, and excellent public services—enough to accept higher taxes as the price of admission. For residents prioritizing pure tax efficiency, neighboring New Hampshire or distant zero-tax states offer clear financial advantages.
Vermont uses 5 progressive tax brackets: 3.35% ($0-$45,400), 6.6% ($45,400-$110,050), 7.6% ($110,050-$229,550), 8.75% ($229,550-$279,450), and 8.75% (over $279,450). These rates apply to Vermont taxable income after deductions.
Vermont charges progressive rates up to 8.75%, while neighboring New Hampshire has 0% income tax. A $100,000 earner pays $6,186 in Vermont vs $0 in New Hampshire—a significant $6,186 annual difference. This creates strong financial incentive for Vermont border residents to relocate to New Hampshire.
Vermont provides exemptions for Social Security benefits (fully exempt) and offers partial exemptions for certain pension income based on federal AGI thresholds. However, most retirement income including IRA and 401(k) distributions is taxed at Vermont's progressive rates, making the state less attractive for retirees than zero-tax states like Florida.
A $75,000 earner in Vermont pays approximately $3,455 in state income tax, representing a 4.61% effective rate (lower than the marginal rate due to progressive brackets). A $100,000 earner pays $6,186 (6.19% effective rate). Effective rates are always lower than top marginal rates due to bracket structure.
Census data shows Vermont residents frequently relocate to zero-tax states like Florida (0% income tax, warm climate) and Texas (0% income tax, strong job market). A $100,000 Vermont earner saves $6,186 annually by moving to these states. The combination of income tax savings, lower cost of living, and warmer weather drives this migration.
Vermont's progressive taxation funds exceptional public services—universal healthcare access, strong schools, environmental protection, and robust infrastructure. The state ranks highly in quality of life, healthcare, education, and safety metrics. Whether higher taxes are "worth it" depends on individual priorities: those valuing Vermont's unique character accept the tax trade-off, while tax-focused individuals prefer lower-tax alternatives.
Our Vermont income tax calculator uses the official 2026 tax brackets published by the Vermont Department of Taxes. Calculations apply Vermont's 5 progressive tax brackets to taxable income after standard deductions. All tax amounts are calculated using Vermont's current tax law and reflect state income tax only—federal income tax (10-37%) applies in addition to state tax for all earners.
Examples shown represent state income tax liability only and assume standard deduction with no itemized deductions or special credits. Actual tax liability may vary based on filing status, dependents, deductions, and credits. This calculator provides estimates for planning purposes and should not replace professional tax advice.
<p><em>This Vermont income tax calculator provides estimates based on 2026 tax brackets and current Vermont tax law. Tax calculations are for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional tax advice. Actual tax liability may differ based on individual circumstances including filing status, deductions, credits, and income sources. Consult the Vermont Department of Taxes or a qualified tax professional for specific tax guidance. Migration and demographic data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau; tax rates from Vermont Department of Taxes official publications.</em></p>
Last Updated: March 2026
Verified By: CountryTaxCalc Research Team
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Last Updated: March 2026