The $100,000 Salary Analysis for Concord, NH

This analysis assumes a single filer with the standard deduction. All numbers are estimates based on 2024 tax brackets. "Purchasing Power" refers to what your money actually buys locally; "Nominal Salary" is just the headline number before taxes and cost of living.

1. The Verification Test

A $100,000 nominal salary does not result in $100,000 in your bank account. Here is the math on where that money goes before you see a dime.

• Gross Annual Salary: $100,000
• Federal Income Tax: ~$14,093 (Based on 2024 single filer brackets after standard deduction).
• FICA (Social Security & Medicare): $7,650 (Fixed at 7.65% of gross).
• New Hampshire State Tax: $0 (NH has no general sales tax and no wage income tax).
• Estimated Net Pay (Annual): $78,257
• Estimated Net Pay (Monthly): $6,521

2. Smart Budget (50/30/20)

Using the Net Pay of $6,521 per month, the 50/30/20 rule breaks down as follows:

• Needs (50% - $3,260):

  • Rent (1BR): $1,500 - $1,700 (Market average for Concord).
  • Utilities: $200 - $300 (Electric, heat, internet).
  • Car/Transport: $400 - $600 (Insurance, gas, maintenance; public transit is limited).
  • Groceries: $400 - $500.
  • Result: This category is tight. You will likely exceed 50% if you live alone in a modern unit or carry significant car debt.

• Wants (30% - $1,956):

  • Dining, entertainment, subscriptions, travel.
  • Reality Check: After high housing and utility costs, this buffer is small.

• Savings (20% - $1,304):

  • Retirement, emergency fund, investments.
  • Reality Check: This assumes zero debt. If you have student loans or credit card debt, this category is the first to vanish.

3. Concord Tax Context

New Hampshire is an outlier in tax policy, which directly impacts purchasing power.

• Vs. High-Tax (CA/NY): In California, a $100k salary nets roughly $72,000 after state tax (depending on locality). In Concord, you net $78,257. You save ~$6,000 annually purely on income tax.
• Vs. Low-Tax (TX/FL): Texas and Florida also have 0% income tax. However, they rely on high property taxes and high sales taxes. NH relies on high property taxes and business taxes.
• The Trade-off: You pay 0% on wages, but you pay ~8.5% property tax (on average) when you buy a home, and 0% on sales tax for daily purchases.

4. FAQ

"Is $100k good here?"
It is a livable salary, but not "wealthy" in Concord. You will live comfortably but likely budget carefully for housing and heating costs. You will struggle to save for a down payment on a median-priced home while maintaining a standard lifestyle.

"Local income tax?"
No. Concord has no local income tax. New Hampshire has no state income tax on wages. You only pay Federal tax and FICA.