Does anyone think that New York State taxes are too high?

Question

And do you think they're preventing us from competing with other areas for jobs?

I live in Western New York state and a lot of people seem to be leaving because a) there are no jobs and b) taxes are ridiculously high.

Answer 1

Yes! I know that they are. I had to move away and find work in other states. I am now in TN. The taxes are lower here and the weather is much better. It is a shame what has happened to WNY. It has been bad for over 30 years bur ever since the state had to pay for the devastation of 9/11 the tax burden has been even worse.

Answer 2

I also live in New York--but I'm not as concerned about the taxes. Compared to living in other places, we are very blessed by what we have here. One of the big issues with upstate is that it has been depopulating for years. What the area needs is a concerted effort to draw new people. I wouldn't look to the "old ways" in trying to attract the big plants & mills of yesteryear--they are gone. The key will be entrepreneurship, embracing new work ways--telecommuting/virtual office etc. and building a new economy up there.

Answer 3

Yes, the entire northeast is plagued by high taxes. This is why so many people are leaving for the south and west. You can't help but see the Soviet-style decay as you drive around upstate NY. Mismanagement and years of expensive-yet-failed social programs have certainly taken their toll on the economy. It is only going to get worse. Leave. The northeast has no future.

Answer 4

Yes, I do. (upstater here). It deters new business from coming to this state; our citizens are unemployed and bailing to other states. It's unfortunate as New York is a beautiful state with much potential for growth and it's not happening.

Answer 5

Obviously too low because there are many services that the state needs to provide and cannot.

A race to the bottom will not serve anyone.