$100k in Boston
Your salary isn't what you earn. It's what you keep.
See the exact impact of MA taxes and Boston living costs on your paycheck.
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2026 IRS Brackets • FICA Limits • State & Local Rules
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📊 Boston Salary Guide
Boston Salary Guide: The Real Take-Home on $100,000
You see the offer letter: $100,000. In Boston, that number triggers a specific psychological response—it feels like the entry ticket to "making it."
But the "Sticker Price" is a liar.
In a city where a studio apartment can bleed your bank account dry, the gap between gross income and net liquidity is the only metric that matters. We ran the numbers through a strict 2026 tax simulation to show you exactly what you can buy, rent, and invest.
The Verification Test ($100,000 Analysis)
Let’s strip away the optimism and look at the hard math. When that $100,000 salary hits your paycheck, it isn't landing in your account intact. It is being dismantled by federal obligations and state extraction.
Here is the brutal breakdown of your "Sticker Price" vs. reality:
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Gross Salary | $100,000 |
| Federal Tax | -$13,614 |
| FICA Tax (Social Security/Medicare) | -$7,650 |
| Massachusetts State Tax | -$5,000 |
| Net Take Home Pay | $73,736 |
The Analysis:
You are losing 26.3% of your gross income before you pay a single bill.
- The Tax Drag: The $5,000 state tax is a heavy anchor. While Massachusetts offers some stability, it demands a significant premium for the privilege of working there.
- The Liquidity Gap: You are effectively earning $73,736, not $100,000. If you budget based on the six-figure number, you will overspend by over $26,000 a year.
Smart Budget Breakdown (50/30/20 Rule)
With a monthly net of $6,145, the standard 50/30/20 rule offers a roadmap for survival—but in Boston, it requires tactical discipline.
1. Needs ($3,072/mo): The Rent Reality Check
This category covers rent, utilities, groceries, and insurance.
- The Purchasing Power: $3,072 buys you leverage, but not luxury.
- Can you afford rent? Yes, but with caveats. This budget allows for a decent 1-bedroom apartment in neighborhoods like Dorchester, Medford, or Allston (approx. $2,200 - $2,500). It does not easily accommodate a Back Back Brownstone without sacrificing your grocery budget.
- The Verdict: You are safe, but you aren't swimming in space.
2. Wants ($1,843/mo): The Social Tax
This is discretionary spending—dining out, the T pass, nightlife, and subscriptions.
- The Liquidity: $1,843 feels substantial until you realize a dinner for two in the Seaport averages $150.
- The Strategy: This budget supports an active social life, but it requires choosing between high-end consumption and frequency. You can go out 4 nights a week, but not to the top-tier steakhouses.
3. Savings ($1,229/mo): Wealth Creation
- The Power: This is your engine for the future. $1,229 monthly is $14,748 annually.
- The Reality: This is a solid start. If you invest this strictly into a 401(k) or ETFs, you are building a safety net. However, it is not enough to aggressively save for a down payment on a Boston home while simultaneously maxing out retirement accounts. You have to pick one lane.
Boston Taxes vs. The Competition
Is the Massachusetts tax burden worth the Boston premium? We compared the $100k scenario against two major rival markets.
Scenario: $100,000 Gross Salary
| Metric | Boston, MA | New York City, NY | Austin, TX |
|---|---|---|---|
| State Income Tax | $5,000 (Flat) | ~$5,000 (Progressive) | $0 |
| Local Tax | $0 | ~$3,000 (NYC Resident) | $0 |
| Take Home Pay | $73,736 | ~$68,000 (Est.) | ~$78,700 (Est.) |
| Rent Cost Index | High | Very High | Moderate |
- Vs. NYC: Boston saves you roughly $5,000+ annually in taxes alone (due to NYC's brutal double-taxation). However, NYC salaries often scale higher to compensate.
- Vs. Austin: Austin is the clear "take-home" winner. You keep roughly $5,000 more per year in Texas due to zero state income tax. However, you trade Boston's walkability, history, and public transit for Texas sprawl and car dependency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the income tax rate in Boston?
A: Boston residents are subject to a 5% flat state income tax on wages. There is no additional city-level income tax, but the state tax is significantly higher than tax-friendly states like Texas or Florida.
Q: Is $100,000 a good salary in Boston?
A: It is a livable and comfortable salary, but it is not "wealthy." After taxes, you take home $73,736. This allows for a decent apartment, a social life, and moderate savings, but you will feel the squeeze if you attempt to buy property or raise a family without a second income.
Q: Does Boston have a local city tax?
A: No. While you pay Massachusetts state tax, there is no specific "City of Boston" income tax on wages.
Disclaimer: This guide utilizes projected 2026 IRS tax brackets and standard deductions. Figures are estimates based on a single filer with the standard deduction. Always consult a certified public accountant (CPA) for personalized tax advice.