Bond Municipal Index Tax Exempt Benchmark 2026

Robert Gultig

3 January 2026

Bond Municipal Index Tax Exempt Benchmark 2026

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Written by Robert Gultig

3 January 2026

Introduction

The Bond Municipal Index Tax Exempt Benchmark 2026 provides critical insights into the performance of tax-exempt municipal bonds, a vital component of the fixed-income investment landscape. As of late 2023, the municipal bond market has seen robust growth, with the market size estimated at approximately $4 trillion, reflecting increased issuance driven by infrastructure needs and state funding requirements. Tax-exempt municipal bonds have gained significant traction among investors, especially in a rising interest rate environment, as they offer a hedge against inflation and favorable tax treatment.

Top 20 Bond Municipal Index Tax Exempt Benchmark 2026

1. California

California remains a leader in the municipal bond market, with a total issuance of approximately $9 billion in 2022 alone. The state’s economic recovery post-COVID-19 has bolstered investor confidence, contributing to robust demand for its tax-exempt bonds.

2. New York

New York’s municipal bond market is substantial, with around $8 billion in new issues reported in 2022. The state’s diverse economy, combined with ongoing infrastructure projects, continues to attract investors looking for tax-exempt opportunities.

3. Texas

With approximately $7 billion in municipal bond issuance in 2022, Texas benefits from a booming economy driven by technology and energy sectors. The state’s favorable tax policies further enhance the appeal of its tax-exempt bonds.

4. Florida

Florida’s municipal bond market reached around $5 billion in issuance in 2022. The state’s growth in tourism and real estate has solidified its position as a significant player in the tax-exempt bond sector.

5. Illinois

Illinois issued approximately $4 billion in municipal bonds in 2022. Despite facing fiscal challenges, the state’s efforts to improve its credit rating have resulted in stable demand for its tax-exempt securities.

6. Pennsylvania

In 2022, Pennsylvania’s municipal bond issuance amounted to around $3.5 billion. The state’s investment in infrastructure and education has made its bonds attractive to a wide range of investors.

7. Massachusetts

Massachusetts recorded about $3 billion in municipal bond issuance in 2022. The state’s strong economy, particularly in technology and education, continues to bolster investor interest in its tax-exempt offerings.

8. Ohio

Ohio’s municipal bond market saw issuances of approximately $2.8 billion in 2022. The state’s efforts to attract businesses and improve infrastructure have positively impacted the performance of its tax-exempt bonds.

9. New Jersey

New Jersey issued around $2.5 billion in tax-exempt municipal bonds in 2022. The state’s strategic investments in transportation and public services contribute to ongoing interest from investors.

10. Virginia

Virginia’s municipal bonds amounted to approximately $2 billion in issuance in 2022. The state’s stable economy and credit rating have made its bonds a favored choice among conservative investors.

11. Washington

With about $1.8 billion in municipal bond issuance in 2022, Washington’s focus on green initiatives and infrastructure spending continues to attract interest in its tax-exempt securities.

12. Maryland

Maryland issued approximately $1.5 billion in municipal bonds in 2022. The state’s diversified economy and commitment to education funding strengthen its position in the tax-exempt market.

13. Michigan

Michigan’s municipal bond issuance reached around $1.4 billion in 2022. The state’s recovery from economic downturns, particularly in automotive manufacturing, has positively influenced its bond market.

14. Minnesota

Minnesota saw tax-exempt municipal bond issuance of approximately $1.2 billion in 2022. The state’s focus on healthcare and education funding supports a stable demand for its bonds.

15. Connecticut

Connecticut’s municipal bond market recorded around $1 billion in issuance in 2022. Despite fiscal challenges, the state’s strategic investment in infrastructure and social programs remains appealing to investors.

16. Colorado

Colorado’s municipal bond issuance reached approximately $900 million in 2022. The state’s strong economic growth, particularly in technology and tourism, enhances the attractiveness of its tax-exempt bonds.

17. Rhode Island

Rhode Island issued about $800 million in municipal bonds in 2022. The state’s investments in infrastructure and education have bolstered the demand for its tax-exempt securities.

18. South Carolina

South Carolina’s municipal bond issuance totaled around $700 million in 2022. The state’s growing economy and investment in public services continue to attract investors to its tax-exempt offerings.

19. Delaware

Delaware recorded approximately $600 million in municipal bond issuance in 2022. The state’s regulatory advantages and business-friendly environment strengthen its position in the municipal bond market.

20. Nevada

Nevada’s municipal bond market saw issuances of around $500 million in 2022. The state’s recovery in tourism and economic diversification efforts are positively influencing demand for its tax-exempt bonds.

Insights

The Bond Municipal Index Tax Exempt Benchmark 2026 indicates a robust and growing market for municipal bonds across various states. With total municipal bond issuance reaching approximately $60 billion in 2022, the sector shows resilience despite economic challenges. Investors are increasingly attracted to tax-exempt securities due to their favorable risk-return profile and tax advantages. As states continue to invest in infrastructure, education, and healthcare, demand for municipal bonds is expected to rise. Projections indicate that the municipal bond market could surpass $4.5 trillion by 2026, driven by ongoing fiscal support and strategic investments in essential services.

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Author: Robert Gultig in conjunction with ESS Research Team

Robert Gultig is a veteran Managing Director and International Trade Consultant with over 20 years of experience in global trading and market research. Robert leverages his deep industry knowledge and strategic marketing background (BBA) to provide authoritative market insights in conjunction with the ESS Research Team. If you would like to contribute articles or insights, please join our team by emailing support@essfeed.com.
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