The $100,000 Salary Analysis for Goose Creek, SC

This guide cuts through the optimism. A $100,000 nominal salary in Goose Creek is a solid earner status, but it does not make you rich. We look at the math of what actually lands in your bank account and what that buys you in the real world.

1. The Verification Test

We strip away the hype and look at the raw deductions. This is what the government takes before you see a dime.

• Gross Annual Salary: $100,000
• Federal Tax: ~$14,000 (Effective rate based on 2024 brackets, standard deduction).
• FICA (Social Security/Medicare): $7,650 (Flat 6.2% + 1.45%).
• South Carolina State Tax: ~$5,800 (Est. 6.5% marginal rate on income over $16,040 after standard deduction; SC has a marginal system, not a flat rate like IL).
• Net Annual Pay: ~$72,550
• Net Monthly Pay: ~$6,045

Purchasing Power Reality: You are earning $6,045 a month. This is your starting line.

2. Smart Budget (50/30/20)

Using the standard budget model on your $6,045 monthly net pay.

• Needs (50% = $3,022):

  • Rent (1BR): $1,400 - $1,600 (Local market average).
  • Utilities: $200 - $300 (Electric, Water, Internet).
  • Groceries/Household: $500 - $600.
  • Transportation: $400 - $600 (Gas, Insurance, Maintenance—car payments are extra).
  • Verdict: You are likely slightly over the 50% threshold here unless you have a roommate or a cheap mortgage.

• Wants (30% = $1,813):

  • Dining out, entertainment, subscriptions, shopping.
  • Verdict: This buffer is decent for Goose Creek but vanishes fast with one vacation or a few expensive dinners.

• Savings/Debt (20% = $1,209):

  • Retirement (401k), emergency fund, extra debt payments.
  • Verdict: This is adequate for building wealth, but it requires discipline. If you have student loans or high car notes, this bucket is empty.

3. Goose Creek Tax Context

South Carolina is not a low-tax haven like Texas or Florida (which have $0 state income tax).

• Vs. Texas/Florida: On a $100k salary, living in Goose Creek costs you roughly $5,800 more annually in state income tax than if you lived in Houston or Jacksonville.
• Vs. High-Tax (CA/NY): You are saving significantly. California would take roughly $12,000+ more in state tax for the same income.
• The Trade-off: You pay a moderate state income tax, but property taxes in Berkeley County are generally lower than many high-tax states, and insurance is manageable.

4. FAQ

"Is $100k good here?"
It is a good salary. It puts you well above the local median household income. It allows for a comfortable life, homeownership, and savings. However, it is not "wealthy." You will still budget, and a major financial setback (job loss, medical emergency) would be difficult without savings.

"Local income tax?"
No. Goose Creek does not levy a local city income tax. You pay State (~6.5% marginal), Federal, and FICA. Your tax burden is dictated by Columbia, not City Hall.