https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Equalization_payments

This indicates Alberta (and Ontario and BC) don't pay higher tax rates. The equalization payments just come out of the general budget.

The US isn't all that much different. Wealthy states pay more per capita because it's an income tax, not a per capita tax. Looks like ~13 states pay more than they get back, with Massachusetts paying relatively more (-$5000/person) and New Mexico recieving relatively more (+$15,000/person).

Afaik it's not higher tax rates, in fact income taxes in Alberta are lower than other provinces. But OP was referring to equalisation payments, which are considered unfair by many Albertans.