This choropleth map illustrates the effective tax rates for middle-class Americans across different states in the U.S. The map reveals a notable variation in tax rates, with states like Alaska and New Hampshire exhibiting the lowest rates at 3.4% and 3.9% respectively. In contrast, states such as Illinois and New York have significantly higher rates, reaching 12.9% and 12.5%. The map highlights the disparity in tax burdens, with Texas and Florida standing out due to their lack of personal income tax, yet still maintaining a relatively high effective tax rate of 9.1%. This suggests that other forms of taxation, such as sales and property taxes, contribute to the overall tax burden in these states. The data underscores the complexity of tax systems across the U.S., where the absence of certain taxes does not necessarily equate to a lower overall tax rate. The map serves as a visual representation of how tax policies can vary widely, impacting the financial landscape for middle-class residents in different regions.
