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Official state tax rules and federal statistics for both states, with every difference computed from the published figures.
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The short answer
State income tax in California: Graduated, top rate 13.3% from $1,000,000 of taxable income (single filer). In Washington: No state income tax on wages. Rents, home values, property tax and price levels differ as well; the table below sets them side by side with the difference computed from official figures.
Evidence: Official source · Machine-readable data · As of 30 October 2026
Side by side
State tax rates and official statistics for California and Washington. The difference is Washington minus California, computed from the published figures.
| Metric | California | Washington | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top state income tax rate | 13.3% | 0% | -13.3 percentage points |
| State sales tax rate | 7.25% | 6.5% | -0.75 percentage points |
| Median gross rent per month | $2,160 | $1,873 | $-287 |
| Median home value | $770,700 | $605,600 | $-165,100 |
| Property tax as a share of home value | 0.72% | 0.81% | +0.09 percentage points |
| Price level (US = 100) | 110.7 | 107.0 | -3.7 |
| Residential electricity price | 32.58 cents per kWh | 14.42 cents per kWh | -18.16 cents per kWh |
Difference = destination minus origin. Income tax differences are in percentage points. State level only; local taxes are not included.
State tax rules
Questions
In California: Graduated, top rate 13.3% from $1,000,000 of taxable income (single filer). In Washington: No state income tax on wages. Federal income tax is the same in both states.
The old state can still tax income earned there, and some states test whether you really gave up your domicile. Keep evidence of the move: a new home, driving licence, voter registration and where you spend your days. Each state page quotes the residency test from the official source.
No. They are statutory rates and official statistics. Your own bill depends on your income, deductions and local taxes. For a personal calculation use the state revenue department or a tax adviser.
Information, not tax or legal advice. Rates are statutory state rates for the stated year; local income, sales and property taxes, deductions and federal tax are not included. Statistics are the latest official releases for the year shown. Confirm your own position with the state revenue department or a tax adviser.
Residence, tax domicile and timing decide what a move is worth. Our consultants help you weigh state tax, cost of living and your immigration status together, in confidence.
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