Minnesota vs. Wisconsin
On a $75,000 salary, you keep about $1,312 more a year in Wisconsin. Prices are 5% higher in Minnesota, so after adjusting for cost of living Wisconsin comes out ahead.
Last verified November 2, 2026.
| Minnesota | Wisconsin | |
|---|---|---|
| State income tax | Has a graduated income tax with 4 brackets, from 5.35% up to 9.85% on taxable income over $203,150 for single filers. | Has a graduated income tax with 4 brackets, from 3.5% up to 7.65% on taxable income over $332,720 for single filers. |
| Minimum wage | $11.41 | $7.25 |
| Price level (U.S. = 100) | 98.6 | 94.1 |
| Employer cost on a $50,000 hire | $5,328 | $5,004 |
| SUTA wage base | $44,000 | $14,000 |
Take-home pay at the same salary
| Salary | Minnesota take-home | Wisconsin take-home | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| $50,000 | $40,258 | $40,936 | $678 more in Wisconsin |
| $75,000 | $57,686 | $58,998 | $1,312 more in Wisconsin |
| $100,000 | $73,463 | $75,261 | $1,797 more in Wisconsin |
| $150,000 | $104,189 | $107,222 | $3,032 more in Wisconsin |
Single filer, standard deduction, tax year 2026. Excludes local income taxes.
Adjusted for cost of living
Using BEA regional price parities, $57,686 in Minnesota buys what $58,493 buys in an average-priced state, and $58,998 in Wisconsin buys what $62,700 does. To keep the same buying power moving from Minnesota to Wisconsin, a $75,000 salary would need to be about $71,558 before the tax difference.
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Frequently asked questions
- Is Minnesota or Wisconsin better for take-home pay?
- On $75,000, you keep about $1,312 more a year in Wisconsin. Adjusted for prices, Wisconsin comes out ahead by $4,208.
- Which state is cheaper for employers, Minnesota or Wisconsin?
- Employer taxes and insurance on a $50,000 hire are about $5,328 in Minnesota and $5,004 in Wisconsin.