The published 50-state ranking
Compare rental property taxes and rents relative to home prices. Use the state research to investigate the local costs and rules that affect your rental.
Higher scores mean a stronger result on the factors this guide measures. They do not guarantee a better fit for your household or investment. Ties stay tied, and missing data is clearly marked.
Taxstra’s published 2026 ranking. One methodology, applied consistently to every state. 90% financial evidence and 10% WalletHub Quality of Life. See the factors and scoring rules.
Pick a state. See how it fits.
Explore grades out of 10, category ranks and the tradeoffs behind them. Each state uses the same published factors and weights.
The map loads when the page opens. All 50 states are available in the selector and table.
Gray = unavailable or provisional; no comparable rank. Alaska and Hawaii shown as insets.
Boundaries: U.S. Census Bureau / US Atlas.
Why Illinois scores this way
Illinois ranks #19 of 50, with 6.6 / 10. The category tiles show its strengths and tradeoffs.
A higher category score means a stronger result on that measure. Check the “Good fit for” and “Less suited to” notes against your own priorities.
2026 state guideLandlords
Illinois
Taxstra’s state comparison
Overall score#19 in the comparison
90% cost and financial score (6.3/10) · 10% quality of life (9.3/10)
How to read this score
The tax factor averages standardized apartment bills in the study’s named urban and rural jurisdictions, with equal weight; it is not a statewide average. Actual assessment, rental insurance, tenant law, court duration, maintenance and collection results remain property-specific.
Rental property taxes
#41 of 50 · 54% weight$12,038 in Chicago + Galena; taxes on the study’s example apartment building, not a quote for your property.
Rent compared with home prices
#4 of 50 · 36% weight5.65%. Higher rents relative to home prices score better; this is not a forecast for a particular rental.
Quality of life
#5 of 50 · WalletHub category · 10% weightWalletHub: #5 for Quality of Life, #18 overall; this score uses the category.
Homeowner property taxes
#45 of 50 · Not in overall score$5,399 typical annual homeowner tax bill; check the specific property before budgeting.
Home insurance costs
#20 of 50 · Not in overall score$1,480 average annual homeowner premium; rental and short-term rental coverage can cost differently.
Good fit for
- Operators who can manage local compliance and substantial carrying costs
Less suited to
- Owners budgeting only principal, interest and a generic maintenance percentage
Illinois: full analysis and evidenceRead the state-specific explanation and supporting sources.
Illinois
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $9,053 in Chicago, versus $15,023 in its rural sample of Galena. Their equal-weight benchmark is $12,038. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition. The source also reports Aurora at $17,724, kept separate rather than replacing the largest-city sample.
For a rental, confirm assessment, exemptions and local taxing districts instead of assuming the statewide median is the building’s bill.
For an occupied purchase, review the lease and deposit workflow for the municipality as well as state law. Compare heating, common-area and aging-building obligations across candidates. This guide does not score a Chicago process and a downstate process as though their practical timelines were measured and identical.
Rent preemption does not remove lease obligations: Illinois prohibits local rent-control ordinances for private property, subject to the statute’s government property-interest exception. Separately, beginning January 1, 2026, landlords must attach the Safe Homes rights summary as the first page of written residential leases and renewals and obtain the required acknowledgments. Review the actual municipality’s tenancy requirements and update lease packets. The Chicago, Galena and Aurora tax examples describe different places; neither rent preemption nor a low city sample makes the entire state inexpensive to operate in. This operating requirement receives no numerical policy score.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Illinois Form IL-4562 instructions (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Illinois IL-4562 instruction PDF (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Illinois General Assembly: 50 ILCS 825/5 rent-control preemption (Current statute; 2026-09-12)
- Illinois Department of Human Rights: Safe Homes Act lease summary (2026; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
Cite the state. Include the method.
Use the state, guide title, published methodology and source years when citing a score. State selection changes the card, not the ranking methodology.
Media and interview inquiries · Source data · Taxstra methodology
Property taxes, local rules and due diligenceCheck the property behind the state score, with evidence for your selected state.
Check the property behind the state score
A state comparison helps build a shortlist. The purchase decision needs a named jurisdiction, the correct rental tax classification and an insurance quote for the intended use.
Illinois: the same apartment, two local tax bills
The 2025 comparison holds land and building value at $600,000, plus $30,000 of fixtures. These are the study’s named urban and rural examples, not statewide tax rates, current parcel quotes or taxes on your personal home.
- Largest-city sampleChicago
- $9,0531.437% of total property value
- Rural sampleGalena
- $15,0232.385% of total property value
Equal urban/rural benchmark: $12,038. Taxstra gives each of these two bills a 50% share. This avoids letting one city alone represent the comparison; it remains a two-location benchmark, not a statewide average or an STR tax assessment.
The study also reports Aurora: $17,724 (2.813%) because the largest city’s tax system differs from much of the state. These examples remain separate.
Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes · Taxes paid 2025; published April 2026; verified 2026-09-12. Appendix tables 5a and 5c, pages 98–99 and 102–103.
Get a rental-use insurance quote
Ask for coverage of the actual rental use, replacement cost, liability, loss of rents, deductibles and relevant flood or wind exposure. The NAIC explains that ordinary homeowners coverage can exclude home-sharing risks. Compare quotes on the same coverage terms; a statewide homeowners premium is not a landlord or STR premium.
NAIC: insurance coverage for home-sharing rentals · Guidance published 2020, checked 2026-09-12. FEMA / NFIP: flood coverage and exclusions identifies NFIP exclusions, including business interruption.
Illinois: landlord operating requirements
Selected primary-authority facts, separate from the financial ranking. The guide does not award points for tenant law or estimate days to possession.
Rent preemption does not remove lease obligations
Illinois prohibits local rent-control ordinances for private property, subject to the statute’s government property-interest exception. Separately, beginning January 1, 2026, landlords must attach the Safe Homes rights summary as the first page of written residential leases and renewals and obtain the required acknowledgments.
Review the actual municipality’s tenancy requirements and update lease packets. The Chicago, Galena and Aurora tax examples describe different places; neither rent preemption nor a low city sample makes the entire state inexpensive to operate in.
Illinois General Assembly: 50 ILCS 825/5 rent-control preemption · Illinois Department of Human Rights: Safe Homes Act lease summary · Checked 2026-09-12.
Full ranking table · 50 of 50 statesCompare every state’s rank, housing costs, property taxes and tax treatment.
50 of 50 states
| Rank | State | Landlord apartment carrying-cost grade | Home value ACS 2024 | Property-tax bill ACS 2024 median | Price index BEA 2024 | Individual bonus treatment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Virginia | 7.8 / 10 | $403,500 | $2,872 | 101.1 | Recompute Virginia depreciation as though the federal bonus provisions did not apply. |
| 2 | North Carolina | 7.8 / 10 | $333,000 | $2,044 | 94.3 | Add back 85% of the federal accelerated-depreciation amount, then deduct 20% of that addition in each of the next five years. |
| 3 | Alabama | 7.6 / 10 | $233,300 | $890 | 88.8 | Follows the federal §168(k) and §168(n) deductions for 2026 to 2027. |
| 4 | Louisiana | 7.5 / 10 | $223,200 | $1,187 | 88.2 | Louisiana offers an optional state 100% expensing deduction for qualifying property; later federal depreciation on the same basis is added back. |
| 5 | Colorado | 7.5 / 10 | $574,600 | $2,828 | 103.1 | Colorado follows the federal deductions for §168(k) bonus and §168(n) qualified production property. |
| 6 | Oklahoma | 7.4 / 10 | $222,100 | $1,672 | 87.8 | Oklahoma permits a state 100% expensing election for qualifying property; it is not simple federal bonus conformity. |
| 7 | Pennsylvania | 7.4 / 10 | $277,600 | $3,214 | 97.6 | Pennsylvania personal income tax uses its own depreciation rules rather than the federal bonus amount. |
| 8 | West Virginia | 7.3 / 10 | $170,800 | $881 | 89.5 | West Virginia adopted the 2025 federal changes, so §168(k) and §168(n) flow through for 2026 to 2027. |
| 9 | Arizona | 7.3 / 10 | $426,000 | $1,828 | 100.7 | Individuals retain the full federal §168(k) bonus amount for eligible new property in 2026; §168(n) is separately added back. |
| 10 | Arkansas | 7.2 / 10 | $215,600 | $1,113 | 86.9 | Federal bonus depreciation is not adopted; use the Arkansas depreciation computation. |
| 11 | Kentucky | 7.1 / 10 | $226,000 | $1,611 | 90.2 | Kentucky does not adopt the current federal bonus provisions; use Kentucky depreciation. |
| 12 | Missouri | 7.1 / 10 | $254,400 | $2,021 | 90.8 | Missouri follows current federal depreciation and does not require a bonus addback for current property. |
| 13 | Utah | 6.9 / 10 | $545,200 | $2,648 | 98.9 | Utah starts with current federal adjusted gross income and does not enumerate a §168(k) or §168(n) reversal. |
| 14 | Tennessee | 6.9 / 10 | $332,600 | $1,488 | 91.9 | Tennessee does not impose a broad individual income tax. |
| 15 | Washington | 6.7 / 10 | $602,200 | $4,729 | 107.0 | Washington does not impose a broad individual income tax. |
| 16 | Nevada | 6.7 / 10 | $455,500 | $2,143 | 100.0 | Nevada does not impose a broad individual income tax. |
| 16 | New Mexico | 6.7 / 10 | $279,900 | $1,776 | 92.2 | Ordinary §168(k) bonus flows into individual income in 2026. The enacted 2027 depreciation reversal changes the corporate base, not the individual base. |
| 18 | Florida | 6.7 / 10 | $396,900 | $2,993 | 103.4 | Florida does not impose a broad individual income tax. |
| 19 | Illinois | 6.6 / 10 | $280,700 | $5,399 | 100.0 | Reverse federal §168(k)/§168(n) amounts and compute the Illinois depreciation modification. |
| 20 | Iowa | 6.6 / 10 | $227,300 | $2,937 | 87.8 | Iowa follows current federal depreciation, including §168(k) and §168(n), for 2026 to 2027. |
| 21 | Delaware | 6.5 / 10 | $371,600 | $1,750 | 99.8 | Ordinary eligible 2026 property retains 20% bonus under the pre-OBBBA schedule; the rest follows regular depreciation. |
| 21 | Kansas | 6.5 / 10 | $238,700 | $2,983 | 90.1 | Current Kansas statutes recognize federal §168(k); a direct current official statement on §168(n) was not located. |
| 23 | Montana | 6.5 / 10 | $425,400 | $2,939 | 94.6 | Montana begins with the current federal income base and has no current bonus-depreciation addback. |
| 24 | Idaho | 6.5 / 10 | $446,400 | $1,912 | 95.5 | Add back the federal bonus difference in the first year; deduct later Idaho-versus-federal depreciation differences. |
| 25 | Georgia | 6.5 / 10 | $343,300 | $2,554 | 96.3 | Use Georgia depreciation without federal §168(k) or §168(n). |
| 26 | Wyoming | 6.4 / 10 | $339,500 | $1,947 | 92.7 | Wyoming does not impose a broad individual income tax. |
| 27 | Texas | 6.3 / 10 | $313,200 | $4,108 | 97.1 | Texas does not impose a broad individual income tax. |
| 28 | Alaska | 6.2 / 10 | $376,500 | $3,976 | 102.4 | Alaska does not impose a broad individual income tax. |
| 29 | Connecticut | 6.1 / 10 | $396,900 | $6,573 | 103.6 | Add back 100% of federal bonus, then deduct 25% of the addition in each of the next four years. |
| 29 | Ohio | 6.1 / 10 | $239,800 | $2,937 | 92.8 | For §168(k), generally add back five-sixths and deduct one-fifth of that addback in each of the next five years. Payroll-growth and NOL exceptions can change the result; §168(n) generally follows federal law. |
| 31 | Minnesota | 6.1 / 10 | $344,600 | $3,501 | 98.6 | For §168(k), add back 80% and deduct one-fifth of that addition in each of the next five years. Qualified production property under §168(n) is not added back. |
| 32 | California | 6.1 / 10 | $759,500 | $5,369 | 110.7 | California does not conform to federal bonus depreciation; compute California depreciation separately. |
| 33 | Hawaii | 6.0 / 10 | $875,900 | $2,385 | 110.0 | Hawaii does not allow the federal bonus deduction; compute Hawaii depreciation separately. |
| 34 | Massachusetts | 6.0 / 10 | $607,400 | $6,080 | 105.8 | §168(k) remains disallowed. §168(n) is disallowed for 2026 and follows federal law beginning in 2027. |
| 35 | Indiana | 5.9 / 10 | $243,500 | $1,798 | 93.3 | Add back federal bonus depreciation and maintain Indiana basis for later depreciation or disposition. |
| 36 | Maine | 5.9 / 10 | $341,900 | $3,103 | 97.1 | Add back the federal bonus amount and claim depreciation under Maine’s pro-forma computation. |
| 37 | North Dakota | 5.8 / 10 | $266,100 | $2,550 | 89.0 | North Dakota follows the federal deductions through its current federal income starting point. |
| 38 | Nebraska | 5.7 / 10 | $263,100 | $3,739 | 90.1 | Nebraska follows the current federal depreciation deduction for 2026 to 2027. |
| 38 | Wisconsin | 5.7 / 10 | $294,700 | $3,680 | 94.1 | Wisconsin does not adopt federal §168(k) or §168(n); compute Wisconsin depreciation separately. |
| 40 | Mississippi | 5.4 / 10 | $186,500 | $1,221 | 87.0 | Mississippi permits a state 100% first-year deduction for qualifying depreciable property; it is not simple federal bonus conformity. |
| 41 | New Hampshire | 5.4 / 10 | $458,800 | $6,707 | 104.2 | New Hampshire does not impose a broad individual income tax. |
| 42 | New Jersey | 5.2 / 10 | $496,000 | $9,358 | 108.8 | New Jersey does not follow the federal bonus deduction; calculate New Jersey depreciation and basis separately. |
| 43 | Maryland | 5.1 / 10 | $436,300 | $4,144 | 105.0 | Generally decoupled from federal bonus; qualifying manufacturing property may receive different treatment. |
| 44 | Oregon | 5.0 / 10 | $497,500 | $3,895 | 103.4 | Oregon disallows federal bonus depreciation for 2026 to 2027; implementing recovery instructions are pending. |
| 45 | Vermont | 4.9 / 10 | $352,800 | $5,026 | 98.0 | Vermont disallows §168(k) and §168(n), then permits recovery under the non-bonus depreciation schedule. |
| 46 | South Dakota | 4.9 / 10 | $289,600 | $2,940 | 88.6 | South Dakota does not impose a broad individual income tax. |
| 47 | South Carolina | 4.7 / 10 | $299,500 | $1,337 | 93.7 | Use South Carolina depreciation without federal §168(k) or §168(n). |
| 48 | Rhode Island | 4.5 / 10 | $455,700 | $4,886 | 102.3 | Compute depreciation and basis as though federal bonus depreciation had not been enacted. |
| 49 | New York | 4.4 / 10 | $449,800 | $6,542 | 107.9 | Reverse federal §168(k) and §168(n) deductions and claim New York depreciation. |
| 50 | Michigan | 4.2 / 10 | $254,200 | $2,988 | 96.2 | For individuals and flow-through entities, Michigan retains the pre-OBBBA phaseout: 20% federal bonus in 2026 and 0% in 2027; §168(n) is disallowed. |
What changes the comparisonThe tax, legal and financial tradeoffs behind the ranking.
Landlord costs depend on the property, local rules and rent collection. Taxstra’s carrying-cost grade now uses the equal-weight mean of urban and rural standardized rental-apartment tax bills in each state, alongside rent-to-value context and a fixed quality-of-life category weight. Local operating requirements and property-level underwriting remain separate from the statistical grade.
What determines this guide’s grade
60% equal-weight urban/rural apartment taxes, 40% rent-to-value context within the financial share. The published ranking gives financial evidence 90% and the named quality-of-life category 10%, consistently across all states. These are Taxstra’s editorial weights, not estimated predictors of future results. The tax factor averages standardized apartment bills in the study’s named urban and rural jurisdictions, with equal weight; it is not a statewide average. Actual assessment, rental insurance, tenant law, court duration, maintenance and collection results remain property-specific.
What belongs in an operating comparison
Start with the occupied rent roll, arrears, deposits, lease expirations, concessions, management agreement and recurring service contracts. Build a repair and capital schedule from inspection findings. A low acquisition price may come with a roof, plumbing or tenant turnover that absorbs years of apparent cash flow. Financing should be added after property operations so debt choices do not distort the comparison of two buildings.
Read both the state framework and the local overlay
California’s court guidance distinguishes Tenant Protection Act coverage and exemptions. New York’s Good Cause framework applies in New York City and localities that opt in. Washington has state rent-stabilization rules with scope and exceptions. A state-level summary cannot replace a review of the building’s current leases, property category and municipality. Keep a current compliance calendar rather than assigning points to political labels.
A notice deadline is not an eviction duration
A notice period is only one procedural step. Service, tenant response, mediation, hearing, judgment and enforcement can add separate time. We do not publish a 50-state elapsed-eviction ranking because a comparable current court-duration dataset has not been obtained. Budget for a lawful process and property-specific reserves; do not plan on lockouts, utility shutoffs or taking possession without the required process.
Deposits are a closing document, not free working capital
Reconcile each tenant’s deposit and any interest or prepaid rent before a purchase closes. Massachusetts guidance describes transfer obligations and interest treatment. Obtain ledgers, required notices and bank records, and establish who is responsible for unresolved tenant claims. Treat the acquired obligation separately from purchase-price proceeds.
Tax classification can overwhelm a headline ranking
Alabama’s 10% owner-occupied assessment class and 20% general class illustrate why a statewide homeowner bill can understate an investment bill. Indiana distinguishes a 1% homestead cap from 2% for other residential property; exclusions and actual assessments still matter. South Carolina’s special 4% legal-residence classification is not a universal rental treatment. These are assessment mechanics, not effective tax rates to multiply by the purchase price.
Carry a federal and state depreciation ledger
The same rental can have different federal and state deductions and adjusted basis. Track current additions, scheduled recovery and assets sold during a recovery period. Do not erase a state schedule because federal basis reached zero. IRS rental guidance also distinguishes improvements from currently deductible operating costs, which matters when an inexpensive acquisition immediately needs substantial work.
Stress the rent roll rather than a statewide slogan
For the controlled $90,000 annual-rent example, losing one month of collected rent removes $7,500 before any repair or legal expense. A $5,000 difference in an actual tax bill will not compensate for every possible vacancy or repair outcome. Compare multiple stresses independently so the same vacancy assumption is not deducted both in gross revenue and in operating expenses.
Put the numbers in contextA worked example with explicit assumptions.
A $5,000 annual property-tax difference is a $50,000 cash difference over ten years before increases or investment returns. It should be weighed alongside rent, maintenance, insurance and vacancy; it cannot establish which property is the better investment by itself.
Illustration only. These assumptions describe the example, not an expected client result.
Every state, explainedBrowse all 50 state chapters, with detailed analysis and linked evidence.
AlabamaRead state analysis
Alabama
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $6,417 in Huntsville, versus $5,722 in its rural sample of Monroeville. Their equal-weight benchmark is $6,069.50. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
A rental’s classification can substantially change the assessed base. An apparently small purchase-price difference is worth rechecking after the assessor applies the intended use.
For an older house, price the roof, cooling system and drainage separately from routine maintenance. Use an annual lease and deposit workflow reviewed for the property’s jurisdiction; the tax grade assigns no value to a presumed quick eviction.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Alabama Department of Revenue OBBBA executive summary (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Alabama Department of Revenue: property classification and assessment (2026; 2026-09-12)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
AlaskaRead state analysis
Alaska
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $8,495 in Anchorage, versus $6,433 in its rural sample of Ketchikan. Their equal-weight benchmark is $7,464. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Alaska’s reported homeowner tax bill is materially different from a zero-property-tax assumption. Identify the actual taxing jurisdiction, parcel assessment and rental policy instead of using the state’s individual-income-tax label to budget ownership.
Write a plan for heat failure, snow access, vacancy inspections and contractor response. A long period without a manager on site can make a routine repair costly. The data offers no measured Alaska eviction duration or landlord-policy score.
Source qualification: Depreciation: Section 168(n) production-property treatment and special industries are outside the reviewed ordinary-equipment scenario.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Alaska Legislature history of the individual income tax (2026–2027; 2026-09-12)
- Alaska Tax Division (2026–2027; 2026-09-12)
- Alaska Statutes Title 43, section 43.20.021(a) (2026–2027; 2026-09-12)
- Alaska 2025 Form 6000 instructions, revised January 1, 2026, pages 5 and 10 (2026–2027; 2026-09-12)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
ArizonaRead state analysis
Arizona
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $7,040 in Phoenix, versus $4,430 in its rural sample of Safford. Their equal-weight benchmark is $5,735. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
A landlord still needs a rental-specific parcel bill and an inspection budget before translating that statistical advantage into distributable cash.
Price roof and cooling-system replacement from actual condition, identify responsibility for landscaping and utilities, and compare annual lease demand with any proposed furnished alternative. Changing the leasing plan can change both the expense structure and applicable operating requirements.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Arizona enacted HB 4168, Chapter 140: §§12, 14–15, 22–23; PDF pages 16, 22, 24, 38 and 40 (2026–2027; 2026-09-12)
- Arizona Legislature session laws: Chapter 140 enactment record (2026–2027; 2026-09-12)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
ArkansasRead state analysis
Arkansas
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $8,572 in Little Rock, versus $5,167 in its rural sample of Pocahontas. Their equal-weight benchmark is $6,869.50. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
That room needs to survive the first roof, foundation or water-system repair.
Request the rent ledger and inspection history for occupied purchases. Build a reserve from the property condition and actual local legal process; this guide has no comparable Arkansas court-duration measure and does not equate affordability with easy collection.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Arkansas corporate income tax instructions (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Arkansas corporate income tax FAQs (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Arkansas 2025 individual forms (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
CaliforniaRead state analysis
California
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $7,480 in Los Angeles, versus $6,683 in its rural sample of Yreka. Their equal-weight benchmark is $7,081.50. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
California’s homeowner tax observation is meaningful context but does not establish the buyer’s post-transfer rental bill. Pair an assessor estimate with the actual rent roll and a review of current tenancy restrictions before valuing an occupied building.
California Courts describes Tenant Protection Act coverage, exemptions and just-cause requirements. Local protections can add another layer, and exemption depends on facts. A projected rent reset or vacant delivery therefore needs its own legal support rather than an assumption that every lease expiration creates vacancy.
Covered rent growth has a ceiling: For housing covered by California’s Tenant Protection Act, the annual increase limit is 5% plus the applicable cost-of-living change, capped at 10%. The Attorney General publishes different regional limits and effective-date windows; local protections may be stricter. Determine the unit’s coverage and local rules before assuming market rent at renewal. A favorable property-cost grade does not include the cost or effect of these restrictions. This operating requirement receives no numerical policy score.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- California FTB Publication 1001 (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- California Courts: eviction notices and Tenant Protection Act (2026; 2026-09-12)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- California Attorney General: limits on rent increases (2026; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
ColoradoRead state analysis
Colorado
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $2,892 in Denver, versus $3,441 in its rural sample of Walsenburg. Their equal-weight benchmark is $3,166.50. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
The cost-context grade does not calculate the rental assessment after acquisition. Ask for the current parcel classification, levies and a post-closing estimate.
A manager’s geographic service area matters when comparing a city rental with a mountain property. Price weather-related access, vacant-unit care and association obligations explicitly; statewide average living costs and a tax label do not measure these operating commitments.
Some cases require mediation before filing: Colorado’s court guidance requires pre-filing mediation when a residential tenant receives specified cash assistance. Exceptions include nondisclosure, qualifying nonprofit landlords, and landlords with five or fewer single-family rentals and no more than five total rental units. Check the tenant’s disclosed status and the owner’s exemption before starting an action. This is a procedural gate, not a prediction of days to possession. This operating requirement receives no numerical policy score.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Colorado 2026 federal tax law provisions report (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Colorado HB 26-1222 status (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Colorado Judicial Branch: mandatory pre-eviction mediation (2023; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
ConnecticutRead state analysis
Connecticut
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $10,272 in Bridgeport, versus $8,820 in its rural sample of Litchfield. Their equal-weight benchmark is $9,546. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
A landlord in Connecticut should request the town’s actual rental assessment before treating gross rent as comparable with a lower-tax state. A few hundred dollars of monthly tax expense can materially change the margin on a small rental.
For an occupied acquisition, reconcile heating responsibility, older-building repairs, deposits and lease terms. The grade has no rent-collection or court-speed input; a good location needs an operating reserve as well as a tax estimate.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Connecticut bonus depreciation guidance (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Connecticut Form CT-1120 ATT (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Connecticut corporation tax information (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
DelawareRead state analysis
Delaware
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $11,515 in Wilmington, versus $3,218 in its rural sample of Georgetown. Their equal-weight benchmark is $7,366.50. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Delaware’s low observed homeowner tax bill helps the carrying-cost context, but it cannot be applied directly to a specific rental. Distinguish a year-round tenant property from a furnished coastal building with different maintenance and association obligations.
For the year-round case, review leases and collection history. For seasonal use, verify the legal transition between short stays and longer tenancies rather than assuming one agreement works for both. Recovery of state depreciation remains a separate open item in this library.
Deposit reconciliation has its own deadline: Delaware Courts describes a 20-day deadline after termination of the rental agreement for returning the deposit balance and an itemized damages list, with additional conditions governing tenant remedies. Obtain the deposit ledger and forwarding address, and use the court’s correct procedure: possession and a money-only claim follow different paths. This operating requirement receives no numerical policy score.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Delaware TIM 2025-02, December 23, 2025: bonus percentages and sunset (2026–2027; 2026-09-12)
- Delaware Division of Revenue tax-season updates (2026–2027; 2026-09-12)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Delaware Courts: landlord/tenant procedure and deposits (Current guidance; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
FloridaRead state analysis
Florida
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $10,396 in Jacksonville, versus $12,505 in its rural sample of Moore Haven. Their equal-weight benchmark is $11,450.50. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Florida’s homeowner tax median should be replaced by a purchase-and-rental assessment for the actual parcel. A prior owner’s treatment may not be the buyer’s, and a condominium also requires an association-document and capital-funding review.
Focus on recurring cash costs: rental insurance, deductibles, common charges, roof condition and the manager’s plan during an interruption. A low personal-income-tax label is not a substitute for those bills, and the score does not model their property-specific size.
State tenancy law controls covered local matters: Section 83.425 preempts to Florida the residential-tenancy matters covered by Part II of chapter 83, including deposits, screening, lease terms and notices. Use the state framework for those matters while checking the building’s separate zoning, licensing and use requirements. This provision is not an STR permit. This operating requirement receives no numerical policy score.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Florida TIP 26C01-01 (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Florida Legislature: section 83.425 residential-tenancy preemption (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
GeorgiaRead state analysis
Georgia
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $10,162 in Atlanta, versus $10,644 in its rural sample of Fitzgerald. Their equal-weight benchmark is $10,403. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Georgia’s carrying-cost screen balances its reported homeowner taxes against a favorable rent-to-value observation. A landlord should still compare the assessor’s rental estimate and the property’s actual service contracts before calculating margin.
Check the property’s water management, cooling equipment and turnover condition, then reconcile management responsibilities and tenant deposits. Neither the financial grade nor federal bonus depreciation measures whether the building can pay for a major repair during a vacancy.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Georgia federal tax changes (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Georgia Form 4562 (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Georgia Form IT-611 instructions (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
HawaiiRead state analysis
Hawaii
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $2,096 in Honolulu, versus $3,270 in its rural sample of Kauai. Their equal-weight benchmark is $2,683. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Hawaii illustrates why a low homeowner-tax dollar figure and a high purchase price must be read together. The grade does not calculate the rental’s county classification, association charges, insurance or repair logistics.
For a condominium, review association reserves, maintenance responsibility and any use restrictions alongside the lease. For a detached property, verify local service access and replacement costs. A manageable state tax headline cannot support cash flow if the operating budget omits island-specific costs.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Hawaii bonus depreciation announcement (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Hawaii Form N-11 instructions (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
IdahoRead state analysis
Idaho
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $5,408 in Boise, versus $4,587 in its rural sample of Saint Anthony. Their equal-weight benchmark is $4,997.50. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
That combination makes it important to ask whether the purchase basis leaves enough margin after actual rental costs.
Clarify utility responsibilities, seasonal service access and the maintenance reserve before signing. A low tax bill does not reduce the amount of principal financed or replace rent lost during turnover, and the model does not assume future appreciation.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Idaho bonus depreciation guidance (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Idaho Form 39R instructions (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Idaho income tax rule 322 (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
IllinoisRead state analysis
Illinois
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $9,053 in Chicago, versus $15,023 in its rural sample of Galena. Their equal-weight benchmark is $12,038. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition. The source also reports Aurora at $17,724, kept separate rather than replacing the largest-city sample.
For a rental, confirm assessment, exemptions and local taxing districts instead of assuming the statewide median is the building’s bill.
For an occupied purchase, review the lease and deposit workflow for the municipality as well as state law. Compare heating, common-area and aging-building obligations across candidates. This guide does not score a Chicago process and a downstate process as though their practical timelines were measured and identical.
Rent preemption does not remove lease obligations: Illinois prohibits local rent-control ordinances for private property, subject to the statute’s government property-interest exception. Separately, beginning January 1, 2026, landlords must attach the Safe Homes rights summary as the first page of written residential leases and renewals and obtain the required acknowledgments. Review the actual municipality’s tenancy requirements and update lease packets. The Chicago, Galena and Aurora tax examples describe different places; neither rent preemption nor a low city sample makes the entire state inexpensive to operate in. This operating requirement receives no numerical policy score.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Illinois Form IL-4562 instructions (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Illinois IL-4562 instruction PDF (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Illinois General Assembly: 50 ILCS 825/5 rent-control preemption (Current statute; 2026-09-12)
- Illinois Department of Human Rights: Safe Homes Act lease summary (2026; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
IndianaRead state analysis
Indiana
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $13,825 in Indianapolis, versus $11,556 in its rural sample of North Vernon. Their equal-weight benchmark is $12,690.50. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Indiana’s tax-cap structure is useful context, but the landlord’s property category matters. DLGF’s 2% category for other residential property is different from the 1% homestead category, and the assessment and bill details still need review.
An inexpensive building can require substantial mechanical and turnover spending. Get the current lease ledger, utility allocation and inspection findings before treating the screen’s affordability advantage as a permanent operating margin.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Indiana Information Bulletin 118 (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Indiana individual add-backs (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Indiana DLGF: property-tax bill and caps (2026; 2026-09-12)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
IowaRead state analysis
Iowa
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $10,768 in Des Moines, versus $9,209 in its rural sample of Hampton. Their equal-weight benchmark is $9,988.50. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Actual rental assessments and levies can change the result further, particularly when comparing buildings in different local taxing areas.
Audit heating equipment, water intrusion, snow service and the lease turnover calendar. A landlord should price those obligations directly and keep a reserve for vacancy; the general cost advantage does not establish low court expense or short elapsed possession time.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Iowa rolling-conformity guidance (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Iowa Form IA 4562A instructions (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
KansasRead state analysis
Kansas
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $7,870 in Wichita, versus $13,633 in its rural sample of Iola. Their equal-weight benchmark is $10,751.50. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Kansas’s carrying-cost comparison shows why modest acquisition prices and modest property taxes are different claims. Obtain the rental parcel’s actual levy and assessment rather than turning the ACS homeowner median into a rental percentage.
A roof, storm deductible or mechanical replacement can be large relative to the cost of a lower-priced house. Price the building’s condition and policy terms before purchase, and review local procedures without assigning an invented eviction-speed advantage.
Source qualification: Depreciation: Confirm Kansas treatment of IRC §168(n) from a current Department of Revenue instruction or enacted statute before describing Kansas as fully conforming.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Kansas K.S.A. 79-32,143a (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Kansas K.S.A. 79-32,117 (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
KentuckyRead state analysis
Kentucky
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $6,456 in Louisville, versus $6,804 in its rural sample of Morehead. Their equal-weight benchmark is $6,630. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Replace it with the actual rental assessment and a repair schedule, especially for an older house whose price may reflect deferred maintenance.
Audit the occupied rent roll and deposit ledger before closing. Check whether your manager handles inspections, tenant notices and turnover as part of the quoted fee; a low-cost state does not remove the need for a documented operating process.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Kentucky depreciation statute (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
LouisianaRead state analysis
Louisiana
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $7,962 in New Orleans, versus $5,788 in its rural sample of Natchitoches. Their equal-weight benchmark is $6,875. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Louisiana’s modest homeowner tax median can flatter a landlord comparison if insurance and property condition are ignored. Separate flood, wind and other policy terms, and confirm what the rental carrier will actually cover for the intended occupancy.
A building’s drainage, elevation, roof and prior damage documentation belong beside the lease ledger. Ask the manager how interruptions and temporary uninhabitability would be handled; the grade has no measured interruption cost or court-duration input.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Louisiana bonus-depreciation FAQ (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Louisiana R.S. 47:287.71 (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Louisiana Title 47 income-tax laws (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
MaineRead state analysis
Maine
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $7,547 in Portland, versus $10,445 in its rural sample of Rockland. Their equal-weight benchmark is $8,996. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Maine’s homeowner tax observation and modest rent-to-value context suggest close attention to annual operating margin. Obtain the rental assessment and identify which heating, plowing and utility obligations the owner must fund.
An occupied property’s lease terms may allocate costs differently from comparable listings. Review those documents and winter maintenance records before projecting cash flow, and avoid assuming that lower general prices mean inexpensive emergency service in a remote area.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Maine Form 1120ME instructions (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Maine bonus depreciation guidance (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Maine 2026 individual forms (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
MarylandRead state analysis
Maryland
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $14,685 in Baltimore, versus $10,555 in its rural sample of Denton. Their equal-weight benchmark is $12,620. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Maryland’s homeowner property-tax dollars and higher purchase-price context can narrow the operating margin of a small rental. Use the actual rental assessment and the current lease obligations before comparing it with a cheaper state.
County and municipality are essential fields in the due-diligence file. Obtain their current rental registration, inspection and tenancy requirements for the property instead of assuming statewide paperwork alone is sufficient. No legal-policy or court-speed advantage is included in this grade.
Source qualification: Depreciation: Apply the Maryland manufacturing exception only after confirming the taxpayer and property meet the state definition; do not map federal §168(n) eligibility directly to the Maryland exception.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Maryland Administrative Release 38 (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Maryland Tax Alert 24-2020 (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Maryland 2026 filing-season changes (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
MassachusettsRead state analysis
Massachusetts
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $6,392 in Boston, versus $9,798 in its rural sample of Adams. Their equal-weight benchmark is $8,095. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Tenancy administration deserves equal practical attention. The state’s official deposit guidance describes interest obligations and transfer of deposits and prepaid rent when ownership changes.
At closing, reconcile each tenant’s ledger with the actual funds and records received. Deposits should not become an unrecorded source of repair cash, and a seller’s incomplete records can create a problem that the purchase-price model never captured.
Deposits carry banking and transfer obligations: Massachusetts requires a security deposit to be held in a separate interest-bearing Massachusetts bank account, with specified receipts and interest treatment. The agency describes a 30-day return deadline after tenancy termination and continuing responsibilities when ownership changes. Reconcile deposits, bank records, interest and tenant notices at closing. Treat tenant funds as an obligation acquired with the building, not spare operating cash. This operating requirement receives no numerical policy score.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Massachusetts corporate federal differences (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Massachusetts TIR 26-4 (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Massachusetts adjusted gross income guidance (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Massachusetts: security deposits and last month’s rent (2026; 2026-09-12)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Massachusetts: security deposits and last month’s rent (Current guidance; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
MichiganRead state analysis
Michigan
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $23,310 in Detroit, versus $15,626 in its rural sample of Manistique. Their equal-weight benchmark is $19,468. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Michigan’s taxable-value uncapping rule makes tax due diligence a priority in an occupied acquisition. Treasury’s guidance explains that qualifying transfers can reset the taxable-value constraint; exceptions need a fact-specific check.
Reconcile the buyer’s projected bill with the rent ledger and the condition of heating, roof and water systems. The homeowner median offers context, but it cannot replace a post-transfer rental estimate or identify the cost of bringing an older building back into service.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Michigan OBBBA decoupling notice (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Michigan corporate bonus-depreciation FAQ (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Michigan Treasury: ownership transfers and taxable-value uncapping (2026; 2026-09-12)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
MinnesotaRead state analysis
Minnesota
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $10,411 in Minneapolis, versus $9,388 in its rural sample of Glencoe. Their equal-weight benchmark is $9,899.50. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Minnesota’s homeowner tax observation and rent-to-value context point to a margin that needs careful recurring-cost verification. Identify the actual assessment, heat allocation and seasonal exterior maintenance rather than importing the homeowner median as a rental bill.
For a multiunit purchase, compare the rent ledger with utility-metering arrangements and actual repair history. A winter interruption or major mechanical replacement can change annual cash flow more than a small grade difference; it is not included in this statistical score.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Minnesota 2026 tax law changes (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Minnesota 2026 law-change FAQ (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Minnesota enacted tax bill summary (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
MississippiRead state analysis
Mississippi
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $18,326 in Jackson, versus $13,001 in its rural sample of Philadelphia. Their equal-weight benchmark is $15,663.50. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Mississippi’s modest homeowner tax observation helps the carrying-cost score, but the lowest-priced building may have the greatest immediate capital need. Request an assessment for rental use and a written scope for roof, moisture, electrical and mechanical work.
Review actual tenant payment records rather than multiplying a listing’s advertised rent by twelve. Property-specific coverage and reserves belong ahead of any tax-timing advantage, especially when an unexpected repair would otherwise require borrowing.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Mississippi business tax FAQs (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Mississippi Notice 80-23-003: optional state expensing (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
MissouriRead state analysis
Missouri
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $9,563 in Kansas City, versus $4,599 in its rural sample of Boonville. Their equal-weight benchmark is $7,081. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Missouri’s homeowner tax observation is lower than several nearby states’ observations, which helps the cost-context comparison. Obtain a rental-specific bill and compare it with the actual lease ledger before translating that relative position into a purchase decision.
An urban older building and a lake-area property can need very different service arrangements. Inspect systems and common-area responsibilities, and confirm the manager’s scope; the model does not turn a modest tax bill into a low-maintenance or quick-collection guarantee.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Missouri partnership tax FAQ (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Missouri corporation income tax FAQ (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Missouri Form MO-1120S instructions (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
MontanaRead state analysis
Montana
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $3,146 in Billings, versus $4,352 in its rural sample of Glasgow. Their equal-weight benchmark is $3,749. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Montana’s landlord screen faces a relatively small rent-to-value observation, so a low leverage or unusually favorable purchase basis may matter more than small savings in routine expenses. The actual assessment and rental quote must replace homeowner averages.
Inspect winter access and local maintenance availability before relying on remote management. A year-round lease can reduce frequent guest turnovers, but it does not remove building, utility or tenant-law obligations; no such reduction is assumed in the grade.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Montana individual income-tax statutes (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Montana Form CIT instructions (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
NebraskaRead state analysis
Nebraska
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $11,663 in Omaha, versus $12,357 in its rural sample of Sidney. Their equal-weight benchmark is $12,010. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Obtain a parcel-specific rental assessment and compare the resulting annual bill with collected rent.
In a small building, check roof, heating, storm deductibles and utility responsibilities before closing. The score omits those expenses and does not describe the speed of local court proceedings; reserve planning must come from the actual building and operating process.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Nebraska bonus depreciation guidance (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
NevadaRead state analysis
Nevada
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $6,973 in Las Vegas, versus $7,697 in its rural sample of Fallon. Their equal-weight benchmark is $7,335. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Nevada’s homeowner-tax observation is relatively modest, but the rent-to-value input is less generous than in several lower-price states. An annual rental needs a purchase basis that survives financing and the actual assessment, coverage and maintenance bills.
Review cooling equipment, landscaping and association obligations, and separate transient-use proposals from long-term leases. Nevada’s lodging economy does not prove that an ordinary tenant property can later be converted to an STR if its current rent is insufficient.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Nevada Department of Taxation (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Nevada Modified Business Tax (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
New HampshireRead state analysis
New Hampshire
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $8,306 in Manchester, versus $10,859 in its rural sample of Lancaster. Their equal-weight benchmark is $9,582.50. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
A rental-specific assessment should be an early underwriting input, with no assumption that lack of broad individual income tax reduces that parcel bill.
Identify heat, snow service, utilities and association responsibilities in the lease and management agreement. The building must support these recurring costs during turnover as well as occupancy; tax timing cannot replace the reserve needed for them.
Source qualification: Depreciation: Confirm New Hampshire Business Profits Tax treatment of IRC §168(n) from 2026 legislation or Department of Revenue Administration instructions.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- New Hampshire RSA 77-A:3-b (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- New Hampshire Business Profits Tax statutes (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
New JerseyRead state analysis
New Jersey
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $11,462 in Newark, versus $13,954 in its rural sample of Maurice River Twp. Their equal-weight benchmark is $12,708. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
New Jersey’s high homeowner-tax observation makes exact carrying-cost verification essential. Legal due diligence also needs attention: the Department of Community Affairs describes broad Anti-Eviction Act coverage with exceptions, rather than a universal right to recover possession at lease expiration.
Review the acquired leases, property category and local rules before promising a rent reset or vacancy to a lender or buyer. The grade does not assign points for tenancy policy, and it includes no measured elapsed eviction duration.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- New Jersey bonus-depreciation decoupling (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- New Jersey CBT-100U instructions (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- New Jersey Department of Community Affairs: Anti-Eviction Act applicability (2026; 2026-09-12)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
New MexicoRead state analysis
New Mexico
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $9,212 in Albuquerque, versus $6,069 in its rural sample of Santa Rosa. Their equal-weight benchmark is $7,640.50. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
New Mexico’s relatively modest homeowner tax observation helps its carrying-cost context. A landlord still needs the intended rental assessment, actual insurance and an inspection-driven repair budget to establish the building’s margin.
For a rural property, identify water, wastewater and access responsibilities; for a city property, check the local lease and registration requirements. Leave individual bonus-depreciation cash-tax effects unavailable until the current state treatment is reconciled rather than forcing a favorable number.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- New Mexico FY2027 Legislative Finance Committee recommendations: corporate and individual bonus effects (2026–2027; 2026-09-12)
- New Mexico enacted SB151, Chapter 69: sections 1 and 11 (2026–2027; 2026-09-12)
- New Mexico SB151 enactment record, March 11, 2026 (2026–2027; 2026-09-12)
- New Mexico legislative OBBBA analysis (2026–2027; 2026-09-12)
- New Mexico personal income-tax overview (2026–2027; 2026-09-12)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
New YorkRead state analysis
New York
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $15,672 in New York City, versus $16,040 in its rural sample of Warsaw. Their equal-weight benchmark is $15,856. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition. The source also reports Buffalo at $7,373, kept separate rather than replacing the largest-city sample.
Acquired tenancy rights can matter just as much to the purchase. The Attorney General says Good Cause applies in NYC and in localities that opt in, with coverage and exceptions that require review.
Check the current locality and building facts, then read the leases and notice obligations before underwriting a rent change or vacancy. A statewide landlord label would conceal those distinctions; the score provides no legal-policy grade or guaranteed possession timeline.
Check whether Good Cause applies at this address: New York’s Good Cause framework applies in NYC and municipalities that opt in, subject to building and owner exemptions. For covered tenancies, an expired lease alone generally does not establish grounds to remove a tenant; increases above the local rent standard can require justification. Identify current municipal participation, total ownership interests and the unit’s exemption status. The agency’s April 2025 municipality list should not be assumed complete for a later acquisition. This operating requirement receives no numerical policy score.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- New York Form CT-399 instructions (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- New York Form IT-225 instructions (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- New York Notice N-26-1 (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- New York Attorney General: Good Cause Eviction Law (2026; 2026-09-12)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- New York Attorney General: Good Cause Eviction Law (Current guidance; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
North CarolinaRead state analysis
North Carolina
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $4,315 in Charlotte, versus $5,208 in its rural sample of Edenton. Their equal-weight benchmark is $4,761.50. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Replace it with the rental’s actual assessment and carry the building’s repair, insurance and utility obligations into the lease comparison.
Track the state depreciation addition and five-year recovery separately from the federal schedule. If the owner moves or sells during recovery, the return analysis needs to follow the specific rules rather than assuming the remaining balance automatically becomes a current deduction.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- North Carolina bonus depreciation adjustment (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- North Carolina G.S. 105-153.6: depreciation additions and recovery (2026; 2026-09-12)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
North DakotaRead state analysis
North Dakota
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $8,250 in Fargo, versus $9,585 in its rural sample of Devils Lake. Their equal-weight benchmark is $8,917.50. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
North Dakota’s homeowner tax observation is midrange relative to its home-value base; the actual rental bill still needs verification. Compare that bill with the occupied rent roll and costs the lease leaves with the owner.
Heating reliability, snow service, turnover timing and the availability of emergency maintenance deserve explicit line items. A below-national price index cannot guarantee that a sparsely served property can be maintained at the same cost as a city building.
Document condition and budget deposit administration: North Dakota’s Attorney General describes a generally one-month security deposit, with specific additional-deposit exceptions, and a 30-day return/itemization deadline after moving out. Leases longer than nine months require interest on the deposit. Get the signed condition report and deposit ledger before accepting a transferred tenancy; check the applicable exception instead of applying one deposit rule to every tenant. This operating requirement receives no numerical policy score.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- North Dakota Century Code chapter 57-38 (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- North Dakota individual income-tax booklet (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- North Dakota Attorney General: tenant rights (Current guidance; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
OhioRead state analysis
Ohio
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $14,327 in Columbus, versus $10,526 in its rural sample of Bryan. Their equal-weight benchmark is $12,426.50. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Ohio’s homeowner tax observation can absorb more margin than a low purchase price suggests. Confirm the rental assessment and current levies, then reconcile the rent roll and any owner-paid utilities.
An older building may need a larger capital reserve than a newer property at a higher price. Inspect roofs, mechanical systems and water intrusion before deciding which produces more dependable cash flow. This score supplies no court-duration comparison and no assumed ease of removing a tenant.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Ohio Revised Code 5747.01 (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Ohio individual income-tax booklet (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Ohio OBBBA fiscal analysis (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
OklahomaRead state analysis
Oklahoma
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $8,618 in Oklahoma City, versus $6,106 in its rural sample of Mangum. Their equal-weight benchmark is $7,362. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
The available grade does not price landlord coverage or deductibles. Obtain terms for the exact building and occupancy, with roof condition and relevant storm exposure disclosed.
Compare the inspection scope with the amount of rent actually collected. A lower-price house does not necessarily have a cheaper roof or heating system to replace, so the capital reserve should follow the asset rather than a convenient percentage of purchase price.
Source qualification: Depreciation: Confirm Oklahoma treatment of IRC §168(n) and the current state election mechanics from 2026 return instructions before describing the state as fully conforming.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Oklahoma Form 512 packet (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Oklahoma Tax Commission tax documents (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
OregonRead state analysis
Oregon
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $16,451 in Portland, versus $7,316 in its rural sample of Tillamook. Their equal-weight benchmark is $11,883.50. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Oregon’s relatively high home values and homeowner tax dollars can narrow annual rental margin. Obtain the rental assessment and current lease documentation rather than assuming the statewide survey describes the building’s costs.
The Oregon Judicial Department provides statewide forms and directs users to relevant local court resources; additional forms may be needed for a particular circumstance. Review notice, filing and enforcement requirements without converting them into a universal elapsed-eviction number. The grade does not measure legal ease.
Use the correct 2026 rent-increase category: Oregon DAS publishes a 9.5% maximum for covered tenancy types under ORS 90.323 in 2026. A separate 6% limit applies to covered manufactured-dwelling and marina facilities with more than 30 spaces; exemptions and scope still matter. Classify the tenancy before choosing a renewal increase and check notice requirements. These percentages are legal limits for covered cases, not forecasts of achievable rent growth. This operating requirement receives no numerical policy score.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Oregon 2026 legislation summary (2026–2027; 2026-09-12)
- Oregon Tax Professional Liaison Meeting, May 2026 (2026–2027; 2026-09-12)
- Oregon Judicial Department: landlord and tenant resources (2026; 2026-09-12)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Oregon DAS: 2026 rent stabilization limits (2026; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
PennsylvaniaRead state analysis
Pennsylvania
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $7,599 in Philadelphia, versus $9,472 in its rural sample of Ridgway. Their equal-weight benchmark is $8,535.50. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Pennsylvania’s homeowner property-tax observation offsets part of its moderate purchase-price context. Request the rental’s actual assessment and levies, then audit the lease ledger and any owner-paid heat, water or common-area charges.
For an older multiunit building, inspect the systems and any required local rental or inspection process before closing. A modest price can leave room for repairs, but only if the reserve is funded rather than counted as first-year profit.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Pennsylvania corporate net income tax audit manual (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Pennsylvania Act 45 of 2025 guidance (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Pennsylvania personal income-tax property guide (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
Rhode IslandRead state analysis
Rhode Island
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $13,991 in Providence, versus $8,113 in its rural sample of Hopkinton. Their equal-weight benchmark is $11,052. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Rhode Island’s homeowner tax dollars and relatively expensive housing create a demanding cost-context comparison for a small landlord. Obtain the actual rental assessment, insurance and lease ledger before evaluating the building’s margin.
For older multifamily property, inspect mechanical systems, water intrusion and owner-paid utilities, and establish local compliance requirements. The score does not model the cost of bringing a building into rentable condition or the process needed to resolve a tenancy.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Rhode Island General Laws §44-61-1 (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Rhode Island Form RI-1040 instructions (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Rhode Island Form RI-1120C booklet (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
South CarolinaRead state analysis
South Carolina
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $11,154 in Charleston, versus $18,674 in its rural sample of Mullins. Their equal-weight benchmark is $14,914. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Its special 4% legal-residence classification is not a universal rental assumption. The assessor should confirm the intended use and the resulting bill before a landlord compares it with another state.
Match that tax estimate to actual collected rent, coverage and maintenance. A coastal building may also carry association and interruption concerns that an inland annual-rental budget does not capture; the grade measures none of those property-specific costs.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- South Carolina Form SC1120 instructions (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- South Carolina IRC conformity update (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- South Carolina federal conformity exceptions (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- South Carolina DOR: legal residence classification (2026; 2026-09-12)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
South DakotaRead state analysis
South Dakota
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $9,513 in Sioux Falls, versus $12,772 in its rural sample of Vermillion. Their equal-weight benchmark is $11,142.50. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
South Dakota’s homeowner tax bill is not negligible relative to the home-value observation, which matters when comparing a small rental with a cheaper acquisition state. Use the parcel’s actual rental assessment and lease income to calculate the margin.
Check heating, winter access and available repair contractors, especially outside larger service areas. The financial score has no maintenance-response or tenancy-process measure, so a low general-price index cannot establish an easy remote ownership experience.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- South Dakota tax types (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- South Dakota sales and use tax guide (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
TennesseeRead state analysis
Tennessee
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $7,007 in Nashville, versus $5,072 in its rural sample of Savannah. Their equal-weight benchmark is $6,039.50. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
A buyer still needs the rental assessment, insurance and lease ledger, particularly when comparing an urban building with a property far from its manager.
Check the entity structure and state filing obligations separately from the owner’s residence. A rental that produces cash before tax should not be made to look better by assuming all entity-level costs disappear with the broad individual income-tax category.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Tennessee franchise/excise Notice 25-36 (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Tennessee franchise and excise tax manual (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
TexasRead state analysis
Texas
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $12,832 in Houston, versus $13,138 in its rural sample of Fort Stockton. Their equal-weight benchmark is $12,985. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Replace seller exemptions and survey averages with an intended-rental assessment, then compare it with actual rent collected.
Obtain rental policy terms, deductibles and inspection findings for the address. A roof replacement, storm event or large tax bill can consume the margin on a modestly priced house. The model does not assign Texas a low-cost operating status simply because it lacks broad individual income tax.
Renewal flexibility still follows the lease: The Texas State Law Library reports no general statewide cap on the amount of a renewal rent increase. During a fixed lease, a change generally requires tenant agreement; anti-retaliation protections and narrow disaster-related local authority remain relevant. Read the current lease and applicable notices before relying on renewal flexibility. This fact does not measure collection performance, vacancy or court duration. This operating requirement receives no numerical policy score.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Texas franchise-tax COGS FAQ (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Texas franchise-tax report information and instructions (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Texas State Law Library: rent increases (2024; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
UtahRead state analysis
Utah
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $2,861 in Salt Lake City, versus $3,107 in its rural sample of Richfield. Their equal-weight benchmark is $2,984. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Utah’s homeowner property-tax observation looks moderate beside its high home values, but the rent-to-value component remains demanding. Ask whether the actual annual rent supports the purchase and financing after an intended-rental assessment.
Check the property’s classification, association obligations and building systems, then compare the management quote with the service area. A desirable residential setting can help personal preference without making the income property affordable at the seller’s asking price.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Utah Legislature Office of Legislative Research: OBBBA equipment bonus and production-property effects (2026–2027; 2026-09-12)
- Utah individual income-tax code (2026–2027; 2026-09-12)
- Utah corporate income-tax code (2026–2027; 2026-09-12)
- Utah Tax Commission forms and publications (2026–2027; 2026-09-12)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
VermontRead state analysis
Vermont
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $14,461 in Burlington, versus $9,266 in its rural sample of Hartford. Their equal-weight benchmark is $11,863.50. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
The actual rental assessment, heating allocation and seasonal maintenance contract need to be compared with collected rent before a purchase is judged affordable.
A remote or older building may require significant planning for winter access, repairs and vacancy inspections. Keep those obligations in the operating budget and the Vermont depreciation schedule in the tax ledger; neither can be replaced by a generic statewide maintenance percentage.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Vermont Act 164 as enacted (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Vermont H.933 bill status (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Vermont income-tax statute (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
VirginiaRead state analysis
Virginia
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $4,368 in Virginia Beach, versus $4,635 in its rural sample of Wise. Their equal-weight benchmark is $4,501.50. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Virginia’s homeowner tax dollars are moderate relative to several nearby states, but the actual county or city assessment and rental use control the building’s bill. A gross-rent comparison should therefore be followed by jurisdiction-specific costs.
Compare lease terms, owner-paid utilities, association responsibilities and building condition before valuing an occupied property. The same statewide score can describe properties with very different service requirements, and it supplies no automatic tenant-law or court-speed conclusion.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Virginia Tax Bulletin 26-1 (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Virginia draft Form 500 instructions (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
WashingtonRead state analysis
Washington
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $5,371 in Seattle, versus $5,049 in its rural sample of Okanogan. Their equal-weight benchmark is $5,210. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
The state also has rent-stabilization rules with coverage and exceptions; the Attorney General identifies a 9.683% maximum for covered residential increases during 2026, not an entitlement to raise every rent by that amount.
Review the lease, notice requirements and any applicable local protections before projecting increases. The score gives no points for this legal framework and cannot tell you the time or outcome of a possession case.
Covered units have a dated 2026 rent limit: Washington Commerce sets the maximum allowable increase at 9.683% for January through December 2026 for covered Residential Landlord Tenant Act units. Coverage and exemptions must be checked under the applicable statute. Use the unit’s current lawful rent, notice requirements and coverage status when reviewing the rent roll. Do not carry the 2026 percentage into later years automatically. This operating requirement receives no numerical policy score.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Washington tax structure (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Washington B&O tax (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Washington Attorney General: rent stabilization law and 2026 limit (2026; 2026-09-12)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Washington Commerce: 2026 maximum rent increase (2026; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
West VirginiaRead state analysis
West Virginia
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $11,484 in Charleston, versus $5,543 in its rural sample of Elkins. Their equal-weight benchmark is $8,513.50. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
The actual rental bill remains necessary, but building condition and tenant demand may matter more to the outcome than another small reduction in taxes.
Inspect structural, water, heating and access issues and obtain a realistic rehabilitation scope. A cheap acquisition can require significant new capital before it earns rent. The guide does not score collection reliability or court duration, so the favorable grade should lead to more detailed diligence.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- West Virginia Code §11-21-9 (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- West Virginia Code §11-24-3 (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- West Virginia SB 400 enrolled (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
WisconsinRead state analysis
Wisconsin
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $12,929 in Milwaukee, versus $10,443 in its rural sample of Rice Lake. Their equal-weight benchmark is $11,686. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Wisconsin’s homeowner tax observation is material relative to its moderate home values, which reduces the margin suggested by gross rents alone. Request the intended-rental assessment and audit heating, water and snow-service responsibilities.
For a student-oriented or older multiunit building, review the actual turnover calendar, deposits and maintenance history. The grade neither predicts tenant payment performance nor estimates court duration; a capable local manager and a funded reserve remain separate purchase requirements.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Wisconsin Schedule I instructions (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Wisconsin pass-through tax FAQ (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
WyomingRead state analysis
Wyoming
Back to comparison ↑For the same $600,000 apartment and $30,000 fixtures, the Lincoln Institute / MCFE study reports a 2025 tax bill of $3,940 in Cheyenne, versus $4,552 in its rural sample of Worland. Their equal-weight benchmark is $4,246. These are two local rental-building examples, not a statewide rate. Check reassessment and classifications before applying either result to an acquisition.
Its lower rent-to-value observation makes purchase price important. Verify the rental assessment and actual lease income rather than assuming every no-income-tax state offers generous rental margins.
For a property outside a major service area, establish who handles heat failure, snow access and inspections during vacancy. The budget should reflect real travel and response costs; below-national general prices do not guarantee inexpensive remote maintenance.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064 (2024; retrieved 2026-09-12)
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental property (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Wyoming Legislative Service Office tax report (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Wyoming State Auditor financial report (2026–2027; 2026-08-30)
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxes (2025; 2026-09-12)
- Census ACS housing, rent and property-tax data
- NAIC 2023 homeowner premium table
Taxstra methodologyScoring factors, weights, research profiles and limitations.
How Taxstra grades each state out of 10
We score every state using the same rules. Costs and financial factors make up 90% of the overall score, and WalletHub’s Quality of Life category makes up 10%. Each category tile shows how much it counts. Tiles marked “Not in overall score” offer extra context without changing the ranking.
What counts toward the score
- Rental property taxes: 60% of the financial share
- Rent compared with home prices: 40% of the financial share
What does a score out of 10 mean?
For financial categories, 10 is the strongest result in the comparison and 1 is the weakest. Lower costs generally score better; higher pay scores better. A 7.9 is a comparison tool, not a promise about your finances.
Why can scores and ranks look different?
Cards show one decimal place, while rankings use two. Two states can both display 7.9 and still have slightly different ranks. States with the same ranking value share a rank.
Which WalletHub ranking do we use?
We use WalletHub’s Quality of Life category, not its overall ranking. For example, Illinois is fifth for Quality of Life and eighteenth overall in the cited study. Those are two different measures.
What if information is missing?
We leave it missing instead of guessing. If a required factor is unavailable, we label the score provisional and do not give it an overall rank.
Technical formulas and source definitions
The tax factor averages standardized apartment bills in the study’s named urban and rural jurisdictions, with equal weight; it is not a statewide average. Actual assessment, rental insurance, tenant law, court duration, maintenance and collection results remain property-specific.
- Financial categories: actual measurement spread
- The most favorable observed value receives 10 and the least favorable receives 1. Intermediate grades are scaled linearly between them: 1 + 9 × the favorable share of the observed range. Lower costs score higher; higher pay scores higher. If every observation is identical, each receives 5.5. These relative grades do not have a universal pass/fail cutoff. Extreme observations can widen the range and compress other grades. We do not narrow a genuine gap just to produce a tighter leaderboard; a change to a source population must have a documented measurement reason. The STR grade is a regional spending-cost screen. Hotel employment is excluded from its score because hotel jobs do not measure residential STR demand; actual occupancy and booking revenue require local property research.
- Malpractice and rental taxes: defined samples
- The physician index weights CMS county malpractice-cost observations by their malpractice RVUs within each state. It uses the underlying 2026 update, based on 2023 premiums and RVUs, before Medicare payment adjustments. State-specific specialty mix, missing insurer types and CMS imputation limit its use as a quote comparison. Apartment-tax comparisons hold building and fixture values constant and average the study’s named urban and rural municipalities equally. Including both reduces dependence on one city; it still does not represent all localities. They are neither statewide tax rates nor single-family STR bills.
- Quality of life: the source category, not the overall WalletHub rank
- We use the quality-of-life category of WalletHub’s 2026 state study, published August 10, 2026. Taxstra converts its rank to a grade using 1 + 9 × (50 − rank) / 49. The publisher’s category includes amenities, mobility, leisure, weather and environmental conditions. WalletHub’s overall ranking also includes affordability, economy, education and health, and safety. We use its narrower quality-of-life category as an amenities and daily-life input; our financial factors already measure costs separately. For example, Illinois is #5 in that category and #18 overall in WalletHub. Taxstra’s own guide ranking is a third, separately calculated result. Differences in these rank-based grades are not measured differences in happiness.
- Overall grade and rank
- Multiply each unrounded component grade by its published weight, add the results, then display one decimal place. Round the composite to two decimals for ranking and retain genuine ties at that precision. Cards display one decimal for readability; two cards displaying 7.9 can therefore have different positions. The table tooltip and downloadable dataset include the ranking value. For example, financial 6.0 and quality of life 9.0 produce 6.6 at 80% financial / 20% quality-of-life weights. Direct tax and deduction comparisons rank their displayed dollar outcomes and show a separate normalized category grade.
- Incomplete evidence
- Unavailable category data receives no grade. When a weighted component is missing, the remaining components are reweighted and the card labels the result provisional, shows evidence coverage and excludes it from the overall rank. The presence of a numeric provisional grade is not evidence that the missing category was measured.
- What a grade does not claim
- These are screening grades, not completed all-factor tax or legal rankings. The named tax benchmarks and CMS malpractice-cost index are included only where the displayed weights say so. Full-return taxes, individual insurance quotes and legal-policy judgments remain separate. A high amenities grade does not mean that everyone prefers the state. Family ties, local neighborhoods, climate preferences and a particular job can outweigh statewide observations.
For investment guides, livability describes market context; it does not forecast rent growth or returns and does not assume that the investor lives in the property’s state. In guides about tax bills, the tax calculations stay separate from lifestyle grades.
Research examples and calculation assumptions
Taxstra's research profiles
A useful comparison holds the household and property constant. These are the exact starting profiles for the tax research; a scenario is not a completed tax estimate unless its result is explicitly shown.
- Physician employment
- $500,000 in wages, one earner, no dependents, no elective retirement contributions. Married filing jointly and single results are separate. The score’s separate tax sensitivity uses $500,000 of state taxable wage income with state AGI equal to that base; it is not a gross-to-taxable return calculation. Compensation observations use the BLS occupation specified beside the result and exclude self-employment.
- Contracting and business ownership
- $500,000 of profit before owner compensation. An S-corp example tests a $250,000 owner wage; that is a sensitivity assumption, not a reasonable-compensation opinion. The separate employee-payroll example is five employees at $100,000 each. Employee wages already included in operating expenses are never deducted twice.
- Retirement
- Both spouses are 67, married filing jointly, receiving $120,000 from traditional retirement accounts, $60,000 in private pensions, $60,000 in Social Security, $30,000 in ordinary investment income and $30,000 in long-term capital gains. Each spouse receives half. Total cash income is $300,000; taxable income depends on the income category and applicable rules. Full-year residents. Qualified traditional distributions; employer-funded defined-benefit pension; 401(k) entirely employee elective deferrals with no employer contributions; IRA entirely self-funded with no exempt pension rollover; Pennsylvania-eligible retirement distributions after retirement. Exclusions are applied to qualifying plan income first where several income categories are eligible. No federal or state tax bill is estimated.
- Property acquisition
- A debt-free $1 million purchase, with $200,000 allocated to land. The long-term rental example assumes $90,000 of rent and $30,000 of expenses before property tax, insurance and depreciation. The STR example assumes $150,000 of bookings and $75,000 of expenses on the same basis. These are research starting profiles, not market forecasts. The standardized scored apartment example is different: $600,000 land and building plus $30,000 fixtures, with the same values across named municipalities. The STR worked example uses a separately labeled fixed property scenario. It does not change the statewide ranking or represent forecast bookings.
- Depreciation
- A sensitivity considers an additional $100,000 deduction that the taxpayer can currently use. An addback can defer a state benefit even when federal expensing is available. A current deduction, a future recovery and a permanent tax reduction are different results.
- State and local scope
- Property location and owner residence are separate inputs. There is no assumed “average” local income tax. A combined state/local result needs a named locality and its resident or nonresident rules. Figures explicitly labeled state-only exclude local tax.
How to reproduce a comparison
- Choose the named measure and its source year.
- Apply the formula displayed beside the map to the source observation for each state.
- Round money to whole dollars, ratios to two decimal places and grades to one decimal place. Rank in the direction stated by the measure: the tax-penalty guide places the largest burden first, while its tax-cost grade still rewards a lower bill. Changing display order does not change a state’s rank.
- Give equal ranking values the same competition rank (composites use two decimals; cards show one). After a tie, skip the occupied positions.
- Leave suppressed or unavailable observations unranked. Retain the state in the table and describe the gap.
A price-adjusted wage, a homeowner tax bill and a lodging-employment concentration answer different questions. The balanced view explicitly combines the guide’s named financial factors with livability at the displayed weights. Other categories provide context. A favorable legal policy is not treated as a measured dollar saving. Material modeling assumptions require review before a full financial ranking is released.
The financial profiles are a $500,000 W-2 household, a business with $500,000 profit before owner compensation, a five-person $500,000 payroll, and a married age-67 household with $300,000 of mixed retirement and investment income. Investor examples assume the purchase location is separate from the owner’s residence.
These scenarios define the research questions. Unless a completed calculation is explicitly shown, a profile is not an estimated return. Tax sensitivities use separately supplied state-taxable wage or ordinary-business bases, exclude local tax and do not replace full-return calculations. We do not calculate with unverified secondary-source schedules.
Published survey estimates have sampling error. We preserve available Census margins of error and BLS relative errors in the source data. Small apparent differences should not be treated as certainty. A comprehensive state decision still requires the actual locality, household, property, employer and coverage terms.
Sources and measurement datesOriginal datasets, primary authority, verification dates and downloadable research.
Download the published 50-state dataset (CSV) · Dataset definitions and coverage
Economic observations were retrieved September 12, 2026. Measurement years differ because the agencies publish on different schedules. Existing retirement rules retain their August 4, 2026 review date; existing PTET and depreciation research retain August 30, 2026. Unresolved entries remain identified.
- Census ACS 1-year: B25077, B25103, B25064Source year / applicable rules: 2024 · Retrieved 2026-09-12
- IRS Publication 527: residential rental propertySource year / applicable rules: 2025 · Verified 2026-09-12
- Alabama Department of Revenue: property classification and assessmentSource year / applicable rules: 2026 · Verified 2026-09-12
- Indiana DLGF: property-tax bill and capsSource year / applicable rules: 2026 · Verified 2026-09-12
- South Carolina DOR: legal residence classificationSource year / applicable rules: 2026 · Verified 2026-09-12
- California Courts: eviction notices and Tenant Protection ActSource year / applicable rules: 2026 · Verified 2026-09-12
- New York Attorney General: Good Cause Eviction LawSource year / applicable rules: 2026 · Verified 2026-09-12
- Washington Attorney General: rent stabilization law and 2026 limitSource year / applicable rules: 2026 · Verified 2026-09-12
- Massachusetts: security deposits and last month’s rentSource year / applicable rules: 2026 · Verified 2026-09-12
- Oregon Judicial Department: landlord and tenant resourcesSource year / applicable rules: 2026 · Verified 2026-09-12
- Lincoln Institute / Minnesota Center for Fiscal Excellence: apartment property taxesSource year / applicable rules: 2025 · Verified 2026-09-12
- WalletHub 2026 quality-of-life categorySource year / applicable rules: 2026 · Retrieved 2026-09-12
The Quality of Life Rank column, not Overall Rank. Overall also includes affordability, economy, education and health, and safety. Illinois is #5 in the quality-of-life category and #18 overall. Category ranks are converted to Taxstra grades; overall ranks are shown only for source context.
- Alabama Department of Revenue OBBBA executive summarySource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Alaska Legislature history of the individual income taxSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-09-12
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Alaska Tax DivisionSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-09-12
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Alaska Statutes Title 43, section 43.20.021(a)Source year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-09-12
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Alaska 2025 Form 6000 instructions, revised January 1, 2026, pages 5 and 10Source year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-09-12
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Arizona enacted HB 4168, Chapter 140: §§12, 14–15, 22–23; PDF pages 16, 22, 24, 38 and 40Source year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-09-12
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Arizona Legislature session laws: Chapter 140 enactment recordSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-09-12
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Arkansas corporate income tax instructionsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Arkansas corporate income tax FAQsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Arkansas 2025 individual formsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- California FTB Publication 1001Source year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- California Attorney General: limits on rent increasesSource year / applicable rules: 2026 · Verified 2026-09-12
Tenant Protection Act coverage and local rent caps; dated rent-increase windows differ.
- Colorado 2026 federal tax law provisions reportSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Colorado HB 26-1222 statusSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Colorado Judicial Branch: mandatory pre-eviction mediationSource year / applicable rules: 2023 · Verified 2026-09-12
Current court guidance on HB 23-1120, including exceptions; not all eviction cases.
- Connecticut bonus depreciation guidanceSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Connecticut Form CT-1120 ATTSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Connecticut corporation tax informationSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Delaware TIM 2025-02, December 23, 2025: bonus percentages and sunsetSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-09-12
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Delaware Division of Revenue tax-season updatesSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-09-12
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Delaware Courts: landlord/tenant procedure and depositsSource year / applicable rules: Current guidance · Verified 2026-09-12
Residential summary possession and security-deposit overview.
- Florida TIP 26C01-01Source year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Florida Legislature: section 83.425 residential-tenancy preemptionSource year / applicable rules: 2025 · Verified 2026-09-12
Standing statute enacted in 2023; limited to matters covered by Part II of chapter 83.
- Georgia federal tax changesSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Georgia Form 4562Source year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Georgia Form IT-611 instructionsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Hawaii bonus depreciation announcementSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Hawaii Form N-11 instructionsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Idaho bonus depreciation guidanceSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Idaho Form 39R instructionsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Idaho income tax rule 322Source year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Illinois Form IL-4562 instructionsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Illinois IL-4562 instruction PDFSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Illinois General Assembly: 50 ILCS 825/5 rent-control preemptionSource year / applicable rules: Current statute · Verified 2026-09-12
Private residential and commercial rents; government property-interest exception.
- Illinois Department of Human Rights: Safe Homes Act lease summarySource year / applicable rules: 2026 · Verified 2026-09-12
Written residential leases and renewals beginning January 1, 2026.
- Indiana Information Bulletin 118Source year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Indiana individual add-backsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Iowa rolling-conformity guidanceSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Iowa Form IA 4562A instructionsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Kansas K.S.A. 79-32,143aSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Kansas K.S.A. 79-32,117Source year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Kentucky depreciation statuteSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Louisiana bonus-depreciation FAQSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Louisiana R.S. 47:287.71Source year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Louisiana Title 47 income-tax lawsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Maine Form 1120ME instructionsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Maine bonus depreciation guidanceSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Maine 2026 individual formsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Maryland Administrative Release 38Source year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Maryland Tax Alert 24-2020Source year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Maryland 2026 filing-season changesSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Massachusetts corporate federal differencesSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Massachusetts TIR 26-4Source year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Massachusetts adjusted gross income guidanceSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Massachusetts: security deposits and last month’s rentSource year / applicable rules: Current guidance · Verified 2026-09-12
Deposit accounts, receipts, interest, deductions and transfer to a new owner.
- Michigan OBBBA decoupling noticeSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Michigan corporate bonus-depreciation FAQSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Michigan Treasury: ownership transfers and taxable-value uncappingSource year / applicable rules: 2026 · Verified 2026-09-12
- Minnesota 2026 tax law changesSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Minnesota 2026 law-change FAQSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Minnesota enacted tax bill summarySource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Mississippi business tax FAQsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Mississippi Notice 80-23-003: optional state expensingSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Missouri partnership tax FAQSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Missouri corporation income tax FAQSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Missouri Form MO-1120S instructionsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Montana individual income-tax statutesSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Montana Form CIT instructionsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Nebraska bonus depreciation guidanceSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Nevada Department of TaxationSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Nevada Modified Business TaxSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- New Hampshire RSA 77-A:3-bSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- New Hampshire Business Profits Tax statutesSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- New Jersey bonus-depreciation decouplingSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- New Jersey CBT-100U instructionsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- New Jersey Department of Community Affairs: Anti-Eviction Act applicabilitySource year / applicable rules: 2026 · Verified 2026-09-12
Current agency-hosted overview; exceptions and current local ordinances need property-level review.
- New Mexico FY2027 Legislative Finance Committee recommendations: corporate and individual bonus effectsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-09-12
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- New Mexico enacted SB151, Chapter 69: sections 1 and 11Source year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-09-12
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- New Mexico SB151 enactment record, March 11, 2026Source year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-09-12
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- New Mexico legislative OBBBA analysisSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-09-12
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- New Mexico personal income-tax overviewSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-09-12
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- New York Form CT-399 instructionsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- New York Form IT-225 instructionsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- New York Notice N-26-1Source year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- New York Attorney General: Good Cause Eviction LawSource year / applicable rules: Current guidance · Verified 2026-09-12
NYC and opt-in municipalities; agency locality list is labeled April 2025 and is not treated as a complete current list.
- North Carolina bonus depreciation adjustmentSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- North Carolina G.S. 105-153.6: depreciation additions and recoverySource year / applicable rules: 2026 · Verified 2026-09-12
- North Dakota Century Code chapter 57-38Source year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- North Dakota individual income-tax bookletSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- North Dakota Attorney General: tenant rightsSource year / applicable rules: Current guidance · Verified 2026-09-12
Residential deposits, condition documentation and notice overview.
- Ohio Revised Code 5747.01Source year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Ohio individual income-tax bookletSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Ohio OBBBA fiscal analysisSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Oklahoma Form 512 packetSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Oklahoma Tax Commission tax documentsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Oregon 2026 legislation summarySource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-09-12
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Oregon Tax Professional Liaison Meeting, May 2026Source year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-09-12
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Oregon DAS: 2026 rent stabilization limitsSource year / applicable rules: 2026 · Verified 2026-09-12
ORS 90.323/90.324 and distinct manufactured-dwelling/marina rules.
- Pennsylvania corporate net income tax audit manualSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Pennsylvania Act 45 of 2025 guidanceSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Pennsylvania personal income-tax property guideSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Rhode Island General Laws §44-61-1Source year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Rhode Island Form RI-1040 instructionsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Rhode Island Form RI-1120C bookletSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- South Carolina Form SC1120 instructionsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- South Carolina IRC conformity updateSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- South Carolina federal conformity exceptionsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- South Dakota tax typesSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- South Dakota sales and use tax guideSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Tennessee franchise/excise Notice 25-36Source year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Tennessee franchise and excise tax manualSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Texas franchise-tax COGS FAQSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Texas franchise-tax report information and instructionsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Texas State Law Library: rent increasesSource year / applicable rules: 2024 · Verified 2026-09-12
Standing general guidance, updated May 16, 2024; lease and anti-retaliation limits still apply.
- Utah Legislature Office of Legislative Research: OBBBA equipment bonus and production-property effectsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-09-12
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Utah individual income-tax codeSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-09-12
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Utah corporate income-tax codeSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-09-12
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Utah Tax Commission forms and publicationsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-09-12
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Vermont Act 164 as enactedSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Vermont H.933 bill statusSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Vermont income-tax statuteSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Virginia Tax Bulletin 26-1Source year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Virginia draft Form 500 instructionsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Washington tax structureSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Washington B&O taxSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Washington Commerce: 2026 maximum rent increaseSource year / applicable rules: 2026 · Verified 2026-09-12
Published July 18, 2025; January 1 through December 31, 2026, for covered RCW 59.18 units.
- West Virginia Code §11-21-9Source year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- West Virginia Code §11-24-3Source year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- West Virginia SB 400 enrolledSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Wisconsin Schedule I instructionsSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Wisconsin pass-through tax FAQSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Wyoming Legislative Service Office tax reportSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- Wyoming State Auditor financial reportSource year / applicable rules: 2026–2027 · Verified 2026-08-30
Imported from the canonical bonus tracker; not independently re-reviewed in this pass.
- BEA regional price parities, via FREDSource year / applicable rules: 2024 · Retrieved 2026-09-12
- NAIC homeowners report, HO-3 average premiumsSource year / applicable rules: 2023 · Retrieved 2026-09-12
The Census property-tax figure is a median dollar bill on owner-occupied homes, not a tax rate on rentals. BLS physician wages exclude self-employment. NAIC premiums describe owner-occupied HO-3 policies. CMS healthcare spending includes several payers and all ages. BLS accommodation employment includes hotels and other lodging; it is not STR revenue.
State-specific primary-authority links appear with each state. A source listed for one tax category does not verify a different category.
Common questions
Which state is most landlord-friendly?
The financial ranking does not answer that legal question. Selected primary-authority notes explain rent increases, deposit handling, renewal protections and filing requirements where reviewed. A missing legal entry receives no favorable score, and statutory notice periods are not estimates of elapsed eviction time.
Can a lease expiration guarantee vacant possession?
Do not assume it. The applicable termination grounds, notice requirements, protections and legal process depend on the jurisdiction and facts. Obtain local advice before promising a vacancy date.
Why does a state with low homeowner taxes need extra diligence?
A rental may lose owner-occupant exemptions, enter a different assessment class or be reassessed after sale. The buyer’s parcel estimate can differ sharply from the survey median.
Are security deposits income for a buyer?
A refundable tenant deposit carries an obligation and must be reconciled at closing. Federal tax treatment and state handling requirements differ from those for rent. Keep the deposit ledger separate.
Do low living costs guarantee lower maintenance bills?
No. Contractor availability, building condition, materials, travel time and emergencies are property-specific. BEA prices are a broad context rather than a maintenance quote.
Why is no eviction-days number shown?
A statutory notice deadline is not a measured time from default to recovered possession. A comparable current 50-state court-duration dataset is missing.
How should a remote landlord use the scorecard?
Start with the apartment-tax benchmark and rent-to-value context, then compare actual rent rolls, reassessment, rental insurance, management fees and compliance capacity. The published score is fixed; choose the property on verified operating evidence.
Why consider livability when comparing rental markets?
Tenants experience the location every day. Local access, amenities and housing suitability belong in operating research. A statewide index provides context but does not establish neighborhood demand or tenant retention.
Does a low property-tax median mean my rental will have low taxes?
No. The Census figure describes owner-occupied homes and reflects the local mix of values and exemptions. Obtain the assessment and rental-specific treatment for the actual property.
Does this ranking measure eviction speed?
No. The current measured comparisons do not estimate court timelines. Notice requirements, procedure and court conditions need separate jurisdiction-specific review.
How is the landlord guide different from the investor guide?
The investor guide focuses on acquisition screening. This guide focuses on recurring ownership: property costs, insurance and operating questions after closing. A purchase that looks attractive initially still needs a sustainable operating plan.
Why can the WalletHub rank differ from the rank on this card?
The card identifies WalletHub’s Quality of Life category rank. The linked study also has a separate Overall Rank column that incorporates affordability, economy, education and health, and safety. Illinois is #5 in Quality of Life but #18 overall in the 2026 WalletHub study. Taxstra’s headline rank combines the named financial factors with that quality-of-life category using our published weights; it is not WalletHub’s overall ranking.
Can readers customize the published ranking?
No. Each guide uses one fixed methodology and the same assumptions for every state. State search, map selection, shared links and embedded cards all use that published ranking. Separate financial examples explain the assumptions without changing the leaderboard.
How does Taxstra include livability in the ranking?
Composite guides combine their named financial factors with WalletHub’s Quality of Life category at fixed, guide-specific weights: 80% financial and 20% quality of life for physician and retirement composites; 90% financial and 10% quality of life for business and property composites. Direct tax, PTET and depreciation comparisons do not include quality of life in their ranking. Everyone sees the same ranking; choosing a state changes the displayed card, not the methodology. The score is a comparison tool, not an estimate of happiness or a completed tax return.
What does the livability measure include?
We use WalletHub’s 2026 quality-of-life category, which considers amenities, mobility, environmental conditions and leisure. Its methodology is linked in the sources. This category does not fully capture family ties, personal climate preferences, a particular school district or an individual neighborhood.
Does a score of 8.0 mean a state is 80% better?
No. The 1–10 grades describe relative results within the comparison. A score of 8.0 is neither a percentage tax saving nor a probability that you will enjoy living there. Review the underlying measures, fixed weights and limitations before making a shortlist.
Why can two states share a rank?
Taxstra ranks composite scores rounded to two decimals while cards display one decimal. Equal ranking values share the same competition rank. Direct dollar comparisons rank whole-dollar outcomes. Missing observations remain unranked when the selected calculation needs them; they are not replaced with zero.
Continue your research
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