Top States to Make a Living

Looking for a change of pace and new state to call home? Check out MoneyRates’ list of the best U.S. states to make a living.

Virginia $43,677 The Old Dominion State improved to the top of the list this year thanks to its adjusted average income figure increasing by $2,557.

Washington $43,662 Washington held onto the second spot in 2012 for the second  year in a row, as its  adjusted average income figure jumped by $2,206.

Texas $42,816 Texans continues to rank among the nation’s top earners thanks to the state’s lack of income tax

Illinois $41,865 The state took a hit in the rankings falling from the top spot last year as its adjusted average income figure dropped and its state income tax rate rose.

Colorado $40,490 Higher average incomes and lower taxes helped boost the Centennial State into the fifth spot in 2012 from ninth last year.

Michigan $40,421 A restoration of the auto industry, which improved the state’s unemployment rate, helped push Michigan into the top 10 this year.

Wyoming $39,745 No state income tax and an unemployment well below the national average helped Wyoming crack the top 10 in 2012.

Utah $39,250 Cheap living in Utah helps its resident keep more of their hard-earned dollars in their pocket.

Delaware $38,802 The First State nearly dropped out of the list from 2011 as the cost of living increased cost increased faster than the national average.

Massachusetts $38,793 Massachusetts rounds out the list after falling form sixth in 2011.