Side-by-side comparison of income tax, property tax, sales tax, capital gains, and retirement treatment between Arizona and California for tax year 2026. Use the calculator below to estimate how much you would save (or pay) after relocating.
| Tax | Arizona | California |
|---|---|---|
| State income tax (effective) | 2.50% | 9.30% |
| Long-term capital gains | 2.50% | 9.30% |
| Property tax (effective) | 0.62% | 0.75% |
| Combined sales tax | 8.40% | 8.82% |
| Retirement income | ss-exempt | ss-exempt |
| Income system | flat | progressive |
Arizona total tax
$17,843
California total tax
$24,568
Arizona state tax
$2,473
California state tax
$9,198
Difference
+$6,725
California costs more
As % of income
5.60%
Federal tax is identical in both columns and excluded from the difference. Numbers use 2026 IRS brackets, state effective rates, and the 3.8% NIIT where applicable.
Moving from Arizona to California would cost an extra $6,725 per year on this profile.
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