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State Tax Guide 2026

Texas Tax Guide

Texas has no state income tax— one of only 9 states. But the state makes up revenue through high property taxes (averaging 1.7% of assessed value) and an 8.25% sales tax. Here's the full picture for 2026.

0%
Income Tax
8.25%
Sales Tax (max)
1.7%
Avg Property Tax
0%
Corporate Tax

✅ No State Income Tax in Texas

The Texas Constitution prohibits a personal state income tax. This saves Texans thousands annually compared to high-tax states.

$75,000 income
Save ~$3,750/yr vs avg state
$150,000 income
Save ~$7,500/yr vs avg state
$300,000 income
Save ~$15,000/yr vs CA

Texas Property Tax 2026

Texas has some of the highest property taxes in the nation. Rates vary by county and city, averaging around 1.7% of assessed value annually.

Metro AreaEffective RateTax on $350K Home
Dallas–Fort Worth2.0%$7,000
Houston (Harris County)1.8%$6,300
San Antonio (Bexar)1.7%$5,950
Austin (Travis County)1.9%$6,650
El Paso2.0%$7,000
Homestead Exemption: Texas offers a $100,000 homestead exemption from school taxes (increased in 2023). Seniors 65+ get an additional $10,000 exemption and a tax ceiling on their primary residence.

Texas Sales Tax 2026

Texas charges a 6.25% state sales tax. Cities, counties, and special districts can add up to 2%, bringing the maximum total to 8.25%.

CityStateLocalTotal
Houston6.25%2.0%8.25%
Dallas6.25%2.0%8.25%
San Antonio6.25%2.0%8.25%
Austin6.25%2.0%8.25%
Fort Worth6.25%2.0%8.25%
El Paso6.25%2.125%8.375%

Texas vs. Federal Tax: Key Facts

No State Income Tax Return
Texas residents file only a federal 1040 — no state return required.
Federal Taxes Still Apply
You still pay federal income tax (10%–37%), Social Security (6.2%), and Medicare (1.45%).
No State Capital Gains Tax
Texas does not tax capital gains at the state level.
No State Estate Tax
Texas has no state estate or inheritance tax.
Franchise Tax (Business)
Businesses pay a franchise tax (0.375%–0.75% of revenue), but this doesn't affect W-2 workers.

See Your Texas Take-Home Pay

No state income tax means more in your pocket. Calculate your exact net pay.

Open Texas Paycheck Calculator →