How to Use This Calculator
Enter your income, filing status, and any deductions. The calculator computes your Maryland state income tax alongside your federal tax, showing exactly how much goes to each and what you take home.
The most useful thing to try? Compare different income levels to see how Maryland's brackets affect your tax bill, then look at how combined federal + state taxes shape your total take-home pay.
Here's what each field means:
Annual Income is your total earnings before any taxes. Include wages, freelance income, investment income, and any other sources.
Filing Status determines which set of tax brackets and deductions apply. Maryland uses filing statuses similar to the federal system — single, married filing jointly, married filing separately, and head of household.
Maryland Income Tax: What You Need to Know
Maryland uses a progressive income tax system with rates ranging from 2% to 5.75%. Like the federal system, this means your income is taxed in layers — each bracket only applies to the income within that range, not your entire income.
Maryland Tax Brackets (Single Filers)
| Taxable Income | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| $0 - $1,000 | 2% |
| $1,000 - $2,000 | 3% |
| $2,000 - $3,000 | 4% |
| $3,000 - $100,000 | 4.75% |
| $100,000 - $125,000 | 5% |
| $125,000 - $150,000 | 5.25% |
| $150,000 - $250,000 | 5.5% |
| $250,000+ | 5.75% |
A Real Example
Let's say you're a single filer earning $80,000 in Maryland. After applying the standard deduction of $2,550 (15% of AGI, min $1,800, max $2,550), your income flows through each bracket:
Your approximate Maryland state income tax would be around $3,580, for an effective state tax rate of about 4.5%.
Remember, this is just the state portion. You'll also owe federal income tax and FICA taxes on top of this.
Deductions and Exemptions
Standard Deduction: Maryland offers a standard deduction of $2,550 (15% of AGI, min $1,800, max $2,550) for single filers and $5,150 (15% of AGI, min $3,600, max $5,150) for married couples filing jointly.
Percentage-based standard deduction (15% of AGI), personal exemptions of $3,200, pension exclusion of up to $39,500 for those 65+, and a two-income married couple subtraction.
Local Taxes
Yes — and they're significant. All 23 counties and Baltimore City levy a local income tax ranging from 2.25% (Worcester County) to 3.20% (Howard County, Montgomery County, Prince George's County, and others). This is a flat percentage added to your state tax and is one of the highest local income tax structures in the nation.
What's Unique About Maryland
Maryland's state rates look moderate (top rate 5.75%), but the real story is the local income taxes. Every county and Baltimore City levies its own income tax on top of the state tax, ranging from 2.25% to 3.20%. When you combine state + local, your total Maryland income tax rate can reach nearly 9%. Maryland's standard deduction is calculated as 15% of your AGI with minimum and maximum caps, which is unusual. The state does not tax Social Security benefits.
Recent Changes
Maryland has been adjusting local rates and expanding retirement income exclusions. The state also offers a tax credit for first-time homebuyers.
How to Use This Calculator Strategically
Model a raise or job change. See how additional income moves through Maryland's brackets and affects your effective tax rate.
Compare filing statuses. If you're married, run the numbers both jointly and separately. The better option depends on your specific income situation.
Plan your deductions. Test how maximizing retirement contributions or other deductions affects your Maryland tax bill.
Evaluate a move. Compare Maryland's rates to other states you're considering. The difference in take-home pay might surprise you.
References
- Comptroller of Maryland. (2025). Individual Tax Types.
This calculator is for educational purposes only and does not constitute tax or financial advice. Tax rates, brackets, and rules change regularly. Consult a qualified tax professional for guidance specific to your situation.