F-1 OPT · State comparisons
F-1 OPT take-home: state-by-state comparisons (2026)
The tax-relocation questions visa holders actually ask, with the math worked out. Sample salary: $180,000 (use the per-pair pages to compare other amounts).
California vs. Texas
Texas takes home $15,003 more on $180,000.
California vs. Washington
Washington takes home $15,003 more on $180,000.
California vs. Nevada
Nevada takes home $15,003 more on $180,000.
New York vs. Texas
Texas takes home $9,580 more on $180,000.
New York vs. Florida
Florida takes home $9,580 more on $180,000.
New York vs. New Jersey
New Jersey takes home $240 more on $180,000.
New Jersey vs. Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania takes home $3,814 more on $180,000.
Illinois vs. Texas
Texas takes home $8,910 more on $180,000.
Massachusetts vs. New Hampshire
New Hampshire takes home $9,000 more on $180,000.
Oregon vs. Washington
Washington takes home $16,064 more on $180,000.
District of Columbia vs. Virginia
Virginia takes home $3,350 more on $180,000.
Washington vs. California
Washington takes home $15,003 more on $180,000.