The $100,000 Salary Analysis for Helena

This guide strips away the hype. A $100,000 salary in Helena, Montana, is a solid income, but it is not "wealthy." It is a middle-class existence burdened by the tax code. We analyze your purchasing power, not your nominal paycheck.

1. The Verification Test

Before you plan a budget, verify what actually hits your bank account. The government takes its share first.

• Gross Salary: $100,000
• Federal Tax (Effective Rate ~14%): ~$14,000
• FICA (Social Security & Medicare): ~$7,650
• Montana State Tax: Montana has a progressive tax system. Expect an effective rate between 4.7% and 6.75% depending on deductions. We will estimate ~$5,500.
• Total Deductions: ~$27,150
• Estimated Net Pay (Take-Home): $72,850 (or ~$6,070/month)

2. Smart Budget (50/30/20)

Using the $6,070/month net income figure, here is the reality of your monthly allocation.

• Needs (50% - $3,035):
  • Rent (1BR Avg): $1,100 - $1,350. (Note: Helena has low inventory; "None" often means "No Vacancy," not free).
  • Utilities (Heat/Internet/Electric): $250 - $350 (Winter heating costs are significant).
  • Groceries/Transport: $1,000+.
  • Remaining Buffer: $300 - $700.
• Wants (30% - $1,821):
  • Dining out, hobbies, entertainment. This budget allows for a comfortable social life, but high-end purchases (new truck, boat) will eat this category immediately.
• Savings/Debt (20% - $1,214):
  • $1,214/month is a respectable savings rate ($14,568/year). This builds a safety net, but it is not enough to aggressively retire early or buy a home in cash.

3. Helena Tax Context

Montana is not a tax haven, but it is not California.

• Vs. Texas/Florida (0% State Income Tax): You would save ~$5,500 annually in state taxes living in Austin or Orlando.
• Vs. California/NY: You save ~$8,000 - $12,000 annually compared to those high-tax states.
• Verdict: Montana offers a moderate tax burden. However, Property Taxes (specifically on the home you might buy) are high relative to home values compared to national averages. Taxes are not the primary expense; the cost of goods and services in a remote capital city is.

4. FAQ

"Is $100k good here?"
It is good, but it does not go as far as it used to. Helena is the state capital and has seen significant cost-of-living inflation. $100k allows you to live alone and save, but you are not "rich." You are likely priced out of the luxury housing market unless you have a dual income.

"Local income tax?"
No. Helena does not levy a local income tax. Your tax burden is strictly Federal and State.