How Take-Home Pay is Calculated
Your take-home pay, also called net pay, is what remains after your employer deducts various taxes from your gross salary. Understanding these deductions helps you budget accurately and plan for tax season. The main deductions include federal income tax, state income tax (in most states), and FICA taxes for Social Security and Medicare.
Federal Income Tax
The United States uses a progressive tax system with seven brackets for 2026. As your income increases, only the amount within each bracket is taxed at that rate. For a $75,000 salary as a single filer: the first $11,600 is taxed at 10%, income from $11,601 to $47,150 at 12%, and income from $47,151 to $75,000 at 22%. Your effective federal tax rate is about 12%, lower than your marginal rate of 22%.
FICA Taxes
FICA (Federal Insurance Contributions Act) includes two components: Social Security tax at 6.2% of wages up to $168,600 (the wage base limit for 2026), and Medicare tax at 1.45% on all wages. High earners pay an additional 0.9% Medicare surtax on wages above $200,000 (single) or $250,000 (married filing jointly). Employers match these contributions, effectively doubling the amount paid into these programs.
State Income Tax
State income tax rates vary dramatically, from 0% in states like Texas and Florida to over 10% in California and New York. Some states have flat rates (everyone pays the same percentage), while others have progressive brackets like the federal system. Seven states have no income tax: Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming.
Take-Home Pay Comparison: $75,000 Salary
Where you live significantly impacts your net income. Here's how a $75,000 annual salary translates to monthly take-home pay across different states:
| State | State Tax | Monthly Take-Home |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | 0% | $5,310 |
| Florida | 0% | $5,310 |
| Pennsylvania | 3.07% | $5,156 |
| New York | 6.85% | $5,124 |
| California | 9.3% | $4,958 |
| Hawaii | 11% | $4,870 |
The difference between living in a no-tax state like Texas versus a high-tax state like Hawaii amounts to about $440 per month or $5,280 annually. Over a 30-year career, this difference compounds to nearly $160,000 in tax savings (not accounting for investment returns). However, consider the complete picture: states without income tax often have higher property taxes, sales taxes, or cost of living.
Other Factors Affecting Your Paycheck
This calculator shows basic take-home pay, but your actual paycheck may differ due to additional factors:
- 401(k) Contributions: Pre-tax contributions reduce your taxable income. Contributing 6% of a $75,000 salary ($4,500/year) reduces federal and state taxes while building retirement savings.
- Health Insurance: Employer-sponsored health plans typically cost $100-500/month in employee contributions, deducted pre-tax. This reduces both your taxable income and take-home pay.
- Local Taxes: Some cities (New York City, Philadelphia, Detroit) impose additional income taxes of 1-4%. Check if your city or county has local income tax.
- Filing Status: Married filing jointly typically results in lower taxes than single filing. This calculator assumes single filer status.
- Pre-Tax Deductions: HSAs, FSAs, commuter benefits, and life insurance premiums paid pre-tax reduce taxable income.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is take-home pay calculated?
Take-home pay = Gross salary - Federal tax - State tax - FICA (Social Security 6.2% + Medicare 1.45%). We use 2026 tax brackets and standard deductions for estimates.
What is FICA tax?
FICA includes Social Security (6.2% up to $168,600 wage base) and Medicare (1.45%, plus 0.9% additional for high earners). Employers match these contributions.
Which states have no income tax?
Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming have no state income tax. New Hampshire taxes only investment income.
How accurate is this calculator?
Estimates use standard deductions and brackets. Actual pay varies with 401(k), health insurance, local taxes, and other factors. Consult a tax professional for precise calculations.