One of the top questions I get from people considering a move to Reno is simple: "How much will I actually save on taxes?" The answer is: a lot — and in some cases, it's the single biggest financial decision you'll make this decade.
Nevada is one of only nine states in the US with zero state income tax. For high earners relocating from California — where the top marginal rate is 13.3% — the savings are immediate and dramatic. Let me break it down with real numbers.
The Income Tax Difference: Real Dollar Comparisons
California's state income tax is tiered, but it's steep at every level. Here's what someone would pay in California vs. Nevada (which is $0):
Annual State Income Tax: California vs. Nevada
Estimates based on 2025 CA tax brackets for single filers. Consult a CPA for your specific situation.
That's not small money. A household earning $150,000 combined keeps an extra $11,200 per year — every single year — just by being a Nevada resident. Over 10 years, that's $112,000+ in your pocket instead of Sacramento's.
Property Taxes: Nevada Wins Here Too
California's property tax rate starts at the Prop 13 base of 1% but averages around 1.1% to 1.25% when you factor in supplemental assessments, Mello-Roos, and local bonds.
Nevada's effective property tax rate is approximately 0.53% — roughly half of California's. Here's what that means on a $500,000 home:
- California: ~$5,500–$6,250/year in property taxes
- Nevada: ~$2,650/year in property taxes
- Savings: ~$2,850–$3,600/year
Combine that with zero state income tax and you're looking at $14,000–$20,000+ in annual savings for a dual-income household — just on taxes alone.
No Inheritance or Estate Tax
Nevada has no estate tax and no inheritance tax. If you've accumulated wealth and plan to pass it to your family, Nevada's structure is extraordinarily favorable compared to states like Oregon, Washington, or Massachusetts which impose estate taxes starting as low as $1M.
For military families who own property or have significant retirement assets, this matters — and it's often overlooked in the relocation calculus.
No Corporate Income Tax — A Win for Entrepreneurs
Nevada also has no corporate income tax and no franchise tax. If you're an entrepreneur, a contractor, or run any kind of business, incorporating in Nevada (or simply operating here) offers real advantages. This is part of why companies like Tesla, Switch, and hundreds of small businesses have chosen to headquarter here.
Remote workers who run side businesses, LLCs, or are transitioning to self-employment after military service often find Nevada's business climate makes the transition significantly easier financially.
The Bigger Picture
The tax savings aren't just theoretical — they directly change what your paycheck looks like on day one. For military members transitioning out of service and entering the civilian workforce in Reno, or veterans retiring to the area, the combination of no state tax + low property tax + Nevada's no taxation on military retirement pay makes this one of the most financially intelligent moves you can make.
Nevada does not tax military retirement income at the state level. If you're retiring from the service and drawing a pension, you keep every dollar of it.
Quick Links for Your Relocation Research
The Bottom Line
If you're moving to Reno for the tax benefits, the math is unambiguous. You will take home more money every single month. The question is just how you want to use it — on a better home, earlier retirement, or funding the lifestyle that brought you here in the first place.
The next step is finding the right home. Call Alex at 775-357-3388 — I've helped dozens of California families make this move and I'll help you land in the right neighborhood for your budget. Whether you're coming from the Bay Area, LA, or anywhere in between, I know this market and I'll give you straight numbers, not sales talk.
Alex Baltensberger — REALTOR® · NV S.0203779
VA Loan Specialist & Military Relocation Expert at Dickson Realty · 9 Years U.S. Military Service · Reno, Nevada