The $100,000 Salary Analysis for Blaine, MN

This guide assumes a single filer with the standard deduction. No dependents, no special credits. Hard numbers only.

1. The Verification Test

A $100,000 gross salary is not what hits your bank account. Here is the math for Minnesota.

• Gross Salary: $100,000
• Federal Tax: ~$13,938 (Based on 2024 single filer brackets).
• FICA (Social Security & Medicare): $7,650 (7.65% flat on gross).
• MN State Income Tax: ~$5,611 (Estimated effective rate of ~6.1% for this bracket; MN has progressive brackets).
• Total Deductions: ~$27,199
• Estimated Net Pay (Annual): $72,801
• Estimated Net Pay (Monthly): $6,067

Note: This excludes any pre-tax 401k contributions or health insurance premiums, which would lower your taxable income but also lower your take-home pay.

2. Smart Budget (50/30/20)

Using the $6,067 monthly net pay.

• Needs (50% - $3,033)

  • Rent (1BR): $1,250 - $1,400 (Current local average).
  • Utilities (Heat/Elec/Water): $180 - $250 (MN winters factor).
  • Groceries: $400 - $500.
  • Car/Transport: $500 (Gas, insurance, maintenance; assumes no car note).
  • Result: You are likely under $200 cushion here if you rent alone.

• Wants (30% - $1,820)

  • Dining, entertainment, shopping.
  • Reality: This category funds the "lifestyle." In Blaine, this goes further than in Minneapolis proper, but not by much.

• Savings (20% - $1,213)

  • Emergency fund, investments, retirement.
  • Reality: This is a realistic savings rate, but fragile. One major car repair wipes this out.

3. Blaine Tax Context

Minnesota is a high-tax state relative to the national average.

• Vs. No Tax States (TX/FL): In Texas or Florida, your net pay would be roughly $78,450 (assuming no state tax). You lose ~$5,650/year living in MN.
• Vs. High Tax States (CA/NY): You fare better than CA/NY, where effective tax rates on this salary would likely push net pay below $70,000.
• Property Tax: Anoka County (Blaine) property taxes are moderate-to-high compared to the national average, which impacts homeowners significantly.

4. FAQ

"Is $100k good here?"
It is a livable salary, not a "wealthy" salary. You can afford a 1BR apartment alone, a reliable car, and save money. You cannot max out retirement accounts, save aggressively for a down payment on a house, and live a luxury lifestyle simultaneously.

"Local income tax?"
Blaine, MN does not levy a specific local income tax. You pay Federal and State (MN).