Salary Comparison Calculator
Compare two UK salaries side by side. See the real difference in take-home pay after tax, National Insurance, pension, and student loan deductions.
Salary A (Current/Lower)
Salary B (New/Higher)
The Difference
Gross Difference
+£10,000
Take-Home Difference
+£6,840
Monthly Difference
+£570
You Keep
68%
| Item | Salary A | Salary B | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gross Salary | £35,000 | £45,000 | +£10,000 |
| Income Tax | -£4,136 | -£6,036 | +£1,900 |
| National Insurance | -£1,654 | -£2,414 | +£760 |
| Pension | -£1,750 | -£2,250 | -£500 |
| Annual Take-Home | £27,460 | £34,300 | +£6,840 |
| Monthly Take-Home | £2,288 | £2,858 | +£570 |
| Effective Tax Rate | 21.5% | 23.8% | +2.2% |
Of the £10,000 gross pay increase, you keep £6,840 (68%).
Extra Tax
£1,900
Extra NI
£760
Extra Pension
£500
Frequently Asked Questions
How much of a pay rise do I actually keep?
The amount you keep depends on your tax bracket. Basic rate taxpayers keep around 72% of a pay rise (after 20% tax and 8% NI). Higher rate taxpayers keep around 58% (after 40% tax and 2% NI). Those earning £100,000-£125,140 keep only about 38% due to Personal Allowance withdrawal.
Should I accept a job with a higher salary but in a different location?
Consider the full picture: take-home pay after tax, cost of living differences, commuting costs, pension contributions, and other benefits. A higher gross salary doesn't always mean more money in your pocket after location-specific expenses.
How do I compare salaries between Scotland and England?
Scotland has different income tax rates. Higher earners (over £28,000) typically pay more tax in Scotland. Use this calculator to compare the same salary in different regions by changing the region setting.
Is a £10,000 pay rise worth it?
It depends on your current salary. Going from £40,000 to £50,000 crosses the higher rate threshold - you'd keep about £5,800 of the £10,000 (58%). Going from £30,000 to £40,000 stays in basic rate - you'd keep about £7,200 (72%).
How does pension contribution affect the comparison?
Pension contributions reduce your taxable income, so higher pension contributions can make a lower gross salary more competitive in terms of total compensation. Also consider employer pension matching.
What about bonuses and benefits?
This calculator compares base salaries. Bonuses are taxed at your marginal rate. Benefits like company cars, health insurance, and share schemes have separate tax implications. Consider the total package, not just base salary.