Here are MoneyRates.com's 10 best states for earning a living, as well as each state's corresponding annual adjusted average income:
State |
Average Income |
Details |
| 1. Illinois | $41,987 |
The unemployment rate isn't low, but the state benefits from relatively high average wages, a low state tax rate and a below-average cost of living. |
| 2. Washington |
$41,456 | The cost of living may be above average, but so is the typical income, and with no state income tax, you'll keep more of what you earn. |
| 3. Texas |
$41,427 |
Texas has no income tax, along with a relatively low cost of living and unemployment rate. |
| 4. Virginia | $41,120 | Virginia has high average wages and a relatively low unemployment rate. |
| 5. Delaware |
$39,105 |
Delaware's strength is its high average wages. |
| 6.Massachusetts |
$38,665 |
The high cost of living in Massachusetts is counterbalanced by the highest average wage levels of any state. |
| 7. Georgia |
$38,228 | A combination of a low cost of living, solid average wages and great banks help Georgia rank high. |
| 8. Tennessee |
$38,038 | A very low cost of living helps Tennessee overcome relatively low wage levels. The state's taxes don't apply to wages, so you'll keep more of what you make. |
| 9. Colorado |
$38,020 | High average wages and a reasonable state tax burden helped Colorado make the list. |
| 10. Minnesota |
$37,722 | Minnesota has relatively high average wages and below-average unemployment. |
Didn't see your state? Check out the 10 toughest states for making a living.
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