Chapter 1 The Illusion of Six-Figure Earnings

For many, securing a six-figure income is a long-held aspiration. The day you can finally claim that title feels like a monumental achievement—a hallmark of financial success. However, there’s a critical aspect that is rarely discussed.

It's not just about how much you spend; it’s also about how much you give away in taxes. The burden of income taxes can feel like a relentless grip, varying significantly from one state to another. While employers typically handle these deductions for employees, entrepreneurs in the six-figure bracket need to be particularly vigilant. It's wise to indulge yourself post-tax season, as the reality of take-home pay might surprise you.

Here’s a breakdown of what employees earning $100,000 actually retain after federal and state income taxes across the U.S. Keep in mind that local and county taxes may further reduce these amounts. The figures below reflect data collected in December 2021:

1. Alabama — $72,123
2. Alaska — $75,898
3. Arizona — $73,396
4. Arkansas — $70,314
5. California — $68,332
6. Colorado — $71,760
7. Connecticut — $70,872
8. Delaware — $70,837
9. District of Columbia — $69,548
10. Florida — $76,096
11. Georgia — $70,586
12. Hawaii — $68,587
13. Idaho — $70,546
14. Illinois — $71,253
15. Indiana — $72,898
16. Iowa — $70,320
17. Kansas — $71,152
18. Kentucky — $71,230
19. Louisiana — $71,690
20. Maine — $70,042
21. Maryland — $71,593
22. Massachusetts — $71,322
23. Michigan — $72,018
24. Minnesota — $69,876
25. Mississippi — $71,691
26. Missouri — $71,421
27. Montana — $70,632
28. Nebraska — $70,384
29. Nevada — $76,096
30. New Hampshire — $76,096
31. New Jersey — $71,248
32. New Mexico — $71,852
33. New York — $70,467
34. North Carolina — $71,126
35. North Dakota — $74,561
36. Ohio — $72,675
37. Oklahoma — $71,652
38. Oregon — $68,308
39. Pennsylvania — $72,966
40. Rhode Island — $71,256
41. South Carolina — $69,806
42. South Dakota — $76,096
43. Tennessee — $76,096
44. Texas — $76,096
45. Utah — $71,146
46. Vermont — $71,146
47. Virginia — $70,829
48. Washington — $76,096
49. West Virginia — $70,826
50. Wisconsin — $70,142

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Chapter 2 The Reality of Financial Success

The first video titled "Why Six-Figures Isn't What it Used to Be" explores the changing perceptions and realities of six-figure salaries, shedding light on why this milestone may not be as glamorous as it appears.

The second video, "Why I Earn Six Figures But Still Feel Broke," delves into the paradox of high earnings versus financial satisfaction, offering insights into the hidden challenges of managing a six-figure income.