New Census data show Californians pay nearly twice as much in taxes per person as residents of Texas and Florida, fueling criticism that higher revenue has not translated into better outcomes.
California collects far more in taxes per person than Texas or Florida, according to newly compiled U.S. Census Bureau data, intensifying criticism that the state’s high-tax model has failed to deliver better results for residents.
The Census Bureau’s Fiscal Year 2022 Annual Survey of State and Local Government Finances shows California collected approximately $10,319 per capita, ranking second-highest nationwide. Texas collected $5,469 per person, while Florida collected $4,914, placing both states among the lowest in the country.
Investor and tech entrepreneur David Sacks said the figures highlight a governance problem rather than a funding shortfall.
“California collects roughly double per capita what Texas and Florida do,” Sacks said. “And services got worse, test scores got worse, crime prevention got worse, they let convicts out of jails. Everything’s gotten worse.”
The Census data also reveal stark differences in how each state raises revenue. California relies heavily on personal income tax, collecting about $3,735 per capita, while Texas and Florida levy no state income tax.
Texas compensates with higher property taxes, collecting roughly $2,248 per person, compared to California’s $2,131 and Florida’s $1,686. Florida relies more on sales taxes and tourism-related revenue, collecting approximately $1,926 per capita in general sales taxes.
Despite California’s higher tax intake, the state has faced declining student achievement, persistent homelessness, and ongoing public safety concerns.
According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress, California’s 2022 reading and math scores fell to some of their lowest levels in decades.
The comparison comes as California continues to experience net domestic outmigration, while Texas and Florida gain residents, according to Census population estimates.
