Taxes can be one of the biggest financial burdens for individuals and businesses alike. Whether you’re looking to keep more of your paycheck, save on property taxes, or enjoy lower sales taxes, some U.S. cities offer a much more tax-friendly environment than others. If you’re considering a major move, it’s worth considering which cities provide the best opportunities for minimizing your tax burden.
While no single city is perfect for every taxpayer, some locations stand out for their low overall tax burdens. Below, we explore five of the most tax-friendly cities in America, looking at why they’re attractive destinations for those seeking financial relief.
Wyoming consistently ranks as one of the most tax-friendly states in the country, and its capital, Cheyenne, exemplifies why. The state has no individual or corporate income tax, making it particularly attractive to entrepreneurs, retirees, and high earners alike.
Tax Benefits:
No state income tax – Earn more, keep more.
Low property taxes – One of the lowest in the country.
Sales tax rate – A modest 4%, though counties can add up to 2%.
Wyoming’s business-friendly tax policies have made it a magnet for companies looking to relocate. According to the Tax Foundation, Wyoming is ranked #1 in the nation for tax climate due to its lack of corporate taxes and minimal business regulations.
“Wyoming offers one of the most favorable tax structures in the U.S., making it an excellent choice for both residents and business owners,” notes the Tax Foundation’s 2025 State Business Tax Climate Index.
For those looking for a place with fewer tax headaches and a lower cost of living, Cheyenne is a strong contender.
Texas is famous for having no state income tax, and Houston, as the largest city in the state, offers one of the most attractive financial climates for individuals and businesses.
Tax Benefits:
No state income tax – One of the biggest draws for residents.
Moderate property taxes – While Texas has relatively high property taxes, large homestead exemptions help homeowners reduce their burden.
Sales tax – Combined state and local rates can reach 8.25%, but with no income tax, the trade-off is often worth it.
Houston is home to a booming job market and is particularly attractive to professionals in industries such as energy, healthcare, and technology. While Texas does not have a corporate income tax, businesses are subject to the franchise tax, but rates remain competitive.
“Texas has long been one of the best places to live and work from a tax perspective,” says Kiplinger’s Most Tax-Friendly States for Retirees report.
Tennessee eliminated its Hall Tax (on interest and dividends) in 2021, making it one of the few states with zero tax on both personal income and investment earnings. Memphis, the state’s second-largest city, benefits from these tax advantages while offering a low cost of living compared to other major U.S. cities.
Tax Benefits:
No state income tax – Tennessee is one of the nine states without personal income taxes.
Low property taxes – The effective property tax rate in Memphis is 0.85%, below the national average.
Sales tax rate – The combined state and local rate is 9.75%, which is higher than some states but still offsets the lack of an income tax.
Tennessee’s pro-business policies have made Memphis a growing hub for logistics and transportation, with FedEx headquartered in the city – plus, you can visit hotspots like Elvis’s Graceland on the weekend. Additionally, retirees find Memphis attractive due to its low tax burden on pensions and Social Security income.
“Tennessee’s tax structure provides significant advantages for retirees and workers alike, making Memphis a strong option for those looking to maximize their income,” reports the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy.
Florida is a well-known tax-friendly state, and Jacksonville, one of its largest cities, stands out as a prime location for those looking to save on taxes while enjoying a coastal lifestyle.
Tax Benefits:
No state income tax – A major draw for high-income earners and retirees.
Low property taxes – Jacksonville’s average property tax rate is 0.97%, below the national average.
No estate or inheritance tax – Making Florida a popular destination for retirees and estate planning.
Florida’s lack of state income tax is a well-documented reason why many Americans, especially retirees, relocate to cities like Jacksonville. The state also offers tax exemptions on certain retirement income, including Social Security benefits, pension income, and IRAs.
“Florida’s tax policies continue to make it an attractive place to live and retire, particularly for those looking to maximize their savings,” says AARP’s Tax-Friendly Retirement Guide.
While Hawaii is generally considered one of the most expensive places to live, Honolulu actually has some tax advantages that make it appealing to certain taxpayers—especially homeowners and retirees.
Tax Benefits:
Low property taxes – Hawaii has the lowest property tax rate in the U.S. at just 0.28%.
Retirement-friendly policies – Many forms of retirement income, including Social Security benefits and public pensions, are exempt from state taxes.
Moderate sales tax – The general excise tax (GET) acts as a sales tax, but at 4.5%, it’s lower than many other states.
Honolulu is a unique entry on this list because while its cost of living is generally high (many groceries must be imported from the mainland, for example), it offers major tax advantages, particularly for homeowners and retirees who want to enjoy a scenic lifestyle without being overburdened by property taxes.
“Hawaii’s tax policies, particularly for homeowners, make it surprisingly competitive when compared to high-tax states like California and New York,” reports the Tax Policy Center.
While taxes shouldn’t be the only factor in deciding where to live, they can have a huge impact on long-term financial stability. States like Wyoming and Tennessee stand out for their lack of income taxes, while Florida remains a popular tax haven for individuals looking to save money. Even Hawaii, despite its overall high cost of living, offers some of the lowest property taxes in the United States.
If you’re considering relocating for tax benefits, consult a tax professional to understand how moving could impact your overall financial picture. From lowering your tax burden to planning for retirement, choosing the right city can make a significant difference in your wealth over time.
Thinking about relocating to a tax-friendly city? Let our office help you navigate your tax situation and make the most of your move.
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