Who pays the most tax?

Photo: Fraser Institute

Canadian workers across the income spectrum – and across the country – pay significantly higher personal income taxes than their American counterparts, a new study by the Fraser Institute reveals.

And, recent personal income tax increases at the federal and provincial levels have widened that gap.

The study found:

• At CAD $50,000 income: Among all 61 provinces and states in Canada and the U.S., the highest combined personal income tax rates are in the 10 Canadian provinces, from a high of 37.12 per cent in Quebec to 28.20 per cent in British Columbia.
• At $75,000 income: Eight Canadian provinces are in the top 10, led by Manitoba (37.90 per cent). Ontario ranks 13th highest (29.65 per cent) and B.C. ranks 25th (28.20 per cent).
• At $150,000 income: Again, the 10 highest combined tax rates are in the 10 Canadian provinces, from 41 per cent in Alberta to 50 per cent in Nova Scotia.
• At $300,000 income: Once more, the top 10 highest combined rates at this income level are in the 10 Canadian provinces, ranging from 47 per cent in Alberta to 54 per cent in Nova Scotia.

“Income taxes are a major attractant – or deterrent – for entrepreneurs, businesses and workers looking to start a business, expand operations or relocate, and at virtually every level of income, Canada’s tax rates are uncompetitive with the U.S.,” says report co-author Robert P. Murphy.

Canadian jurisdictions tend to define "high income" at much lower thresholds than American states, the report notes. For example, Ontario’s top combined rate of 53.53 per cent applies to all income over CAD $220,000, whereas New York’s top combined rate (45.82 per cent) applies to income over US $1 million.

“Competitive personal income tax rates are key to a strong growing economy, and other things being equal, higher personal income taxes deter entrepreneurs, workers, and businesses,” Murphy says.

“Policymakers in Canada should evaluate personal income tax rates in Canada with an eye to tax rates paid in neighbouring and competing jurisdictions.”