The $100,000 Salary Analysis for Bangor

This guide cuts through the noise. A $100,000 salary in Bangor is solid, but it is not "rich" after the government takes its share. We focus on purchasing power—what your money actually buys locally—not the headline number.

1. The Verification Test

Here is the reality of your $100,000 gross salary. Do not look at the gross; look at the net.

• Gross Salary: $100,000
• Federal Tax (Est.): -$14,398
  • Note: This assumes Single Filer, Standard Deduction.
• FICA (Social Security/Medicare): -$7,650
• Maine State Income Tax (Est.): -$4,800
  • *Maine has a progressive structure. Top bracket kicks in early (around $58k). Rate: 6.5% to 7.15%.*
• Net Pay (Take-Home): ~$73,152 / year

Monthly Net Pay: ~$6,096

2. Smart Budget (50/30/20)

Using the 50/30/20 rule based on your $6,096 monthly take-home.

Needs (50% = $3,048)

• Rent (1BR Avg): -$971
  • This leaves $2,077 for utilities, groceries, insurance, and gas. You are comfortable here.
• Utilities (Elec/Gas/Net): -$250
• Car/Gas/Ins: -$400
• Groceries: -$400
• Remaining Buffer: ~$1,057

Wants (30% = $1,829)

• Dining out, entertainment, hobbies.
• In Bangor, this goes far. You can afford a high social life compared to metro markets.

Savings (20% = $1,219)

• Emergency Fund / Retirement: $1,219
• At this savings rate, you are building wealth, but slowly. You are not hitting max 401k contributions.

3. Bangor Tax Context

Maine is not a low-tax state. It is a high-tax state relative to its income potential.

• Versus Texas/Florida: In a no-income-tax state, your Net Pay would be roughly $3,000 higher annually. You are effectively paying a $250/month "Maine premium" to live here.
• Versus California/NY: You are saving roughly $5,000 - $7,000 annually compared to those top brackets.

Verdict: You trade lower taxes for lower wages. On $100k, the tax hit is noticeable.

4. FAQ

"Is $100k good here?"
Yes. It is a high salary for the area. You will live alone, drive a decent car, and save money. However, do not expect to buy a luxury home immediately; housing prices have risen significantly, and property taxes in Bangor are not negligible.

"Local income tax?"
No. Bangor does not levy a local city income tax. Only your State (Maine) and Federal taxes apply.