The $100,000 Salary Analysis for Elizabethtown, KY

This guide strips away the hype. $100k is a solid number, but it doesn't buy you a luxury lifestyle here. It buys you stability. We focus on Purchasing Power—what your money actually buys locally—not the raw number.

1. The Verification Test

Your $100,000 nominal salary gets shredded before it hits your bank account. Here is the math for a single filer taking the standard deduction.

• Gross Salary: $100,000
• Federal Tax: ~$14,093
• FICA (Social Security/Medicare): $7,650
• Kentucky State Tax: ~$4,720 (Flat 5.0% rate on taxable income after deductions)
• Estimated Net Pay (Annual): ~$73,537
• Estimated Net Pay (Monthly): ~$6,128

*Note: This does not include local city taxes (Elizabethtown city tax is roughly 1.95%), which would lower your net pay further.*

2. Smart Budget (50/30/20)

Using your monthly net of $6,128, here is how the standard budgeting rule applies locally.

Needs (50% - $3,064)

• Rent (1BR): $790 (Well below the national average).
• Utilities: $150 - $200 (Electric, Water, Internet).
• Groceries/Household: $400 - $600.
• Transportation: $300 - $500 (Gas/Insurance; car payments are extra).
• Remaining for Needs: $1,174 (This covers debt payments or emergency savings).

Wants (30% - $1,838)

• Dining out, entertainment, subscriptions, hobbies.
• Reality Check: After rent and bills, this category feels comfortable but not extravagant.

Savings (20% - $1,225)

• Retirement contributions (401k/IRA), general savings.
• Reality Check: This is a healthy savings rate for the cost of living.

3. Elizabethtown Tax Context

Kentucky is a High-Income Tax State compared to no-tax states.

• Vs. Texas/Florida: You pay ~$4,720 more in state income tax here than in a state with $0 state income tax. In those states, your Net Pay would be closer to $78,257.
• Vs. California/NY: You save significantly. CA/NY can take $10,000+ more annually in state taxes.
• Verdict: KY is "Middle of the Road" to "High." You are paying for the privilege of living here.

4. FAQ

"Is $100k good here?"
Yes, it is well above the local median household income. You will live comfortably, pay your rent easily, and save money. However, you are not "rich." You are solidly middle class.

"Local income tax?"
Yes. Elizabethtown has a local wage tax. Expect an additional deduction of roughly 1.95% of your gross pay (~$1,950/year). This lowers your effective purchasing power.