$100k in Lawrence
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See the exact impact of MA taxes and Lawrence living costs on your paycheck.
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2026 IRS Brackets • FICA Limits • State & Local Rules
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📊 Lawrence Salary Guide
Lawrence, MA Salary Guide: The Real Cost of Earning $100k
You earn a six-figure salary. You check your pay stub: the number is lower. Much lower. This guide cuts through the sticker price to reveal your actual purchasing power in Lawrence, Massachusetts.
We analyzed a $100,000 salary against 2026 tax projections to show you exactly where your money goes—and how to leverage the Lawrence market to your advantage.
The Verification Test ($100,000 Analysis)
The "Sticker Price" of your labor is $100,000. The "Real Price"—what you actually take home to survive—is significantly less.
Here is the math based on 2026 federal and state projections for a single filer taking the standard deduction:
- Gross Income: $100,000
- Federal Tax: -$13,614
- FICA Tax (Social Security/Medicare): -$7,650
- Massachusetts State Tax: -$5,000
- Local/City Tax: $0
The Bottom Line:
Your Take Home Pay is $73,736 annually.
The Analysis:
You lose 26.3% of your gross income to taxes immediately. That is a "hidden" tax burden of over $26,000. In Lawrence, there is no local income tax to soften the blow, but the flat state income tax slices a solid $5,000 off the top. If you are budgeting based on your gross salary, you are already underwater.
Smart Budget Breakdown (50/30/20 Rule)
With a monthly net of $6,145, the 50/30/20 rule isn't just a suggestion; it's your roadmap to financial stability in the Merrimack Valley.
Needs ($3,072 / month)
This bucket covers rent, utilities, groceries, and insurance.
- Purchasing Power: This is a healthy number for Lawrence. The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment hovers around $1,800 - $2,100.
- The Reality: After paying rent ($2,000) and utilities ($150), you have roughly $922 left for groceries, car insurance, and gas. This is tight but doable if you avoid lifestyle inflation. You cannot afford a luxury downtown Boston lifestyle, but you can live comfortably in Lawrence proper.
Savings ($1,229 / month)
This is your wealth creation bucket.
- Wealth Creation: $1,229/month equals $14,748/year.
- The Strategy: This is enough to max out a Roth IRA ($7,000) and still contribute heavily to a 401(k). In Lawrence, this income bracket puts you in a prime position to save for a down payment on a property in the suburbs (Andover, North Andover, Methuen) within 3-5 years, provided you stick to the budget.
Wants ($1,843 / month)
Dining, streaming, nightlife, and shopping.
- The Spend: You have significant disposable income here. Lawrence offers a low-cost entertainment scene compared to Boston. You can eat out frequently and still bank this category if you choose.
Lawrence Taxes vs. The Competition
How does the "Lawrence Crunch" compare to other tech and business hubs?
Scenario: $100,000 Salary
| Location | Est. Annual Tax Burden | Net Take Home | Difference vs. Lawrence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawrence, MA | $26,264 | $73,736 | Baseline |
| New York City, NY | ~$36,000+ | ~$64,000 | You lose nearly $10k more to taxes in NYC. |
| Austin, TX | ~$24,500 | ~$75,500 | You save roughly $1,700 in taxes annually in Austin. |
The Verdict:
Lawrence is tax-heavy compared to Texas, but significantly cheaper than New York City. You are paying for Massachusetts infrastructure and services. While the lack of a local tax is a plus, the flat state income tax is a heavy anchor compared to states with graduated brackets that might favor lower earners.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the income tax rate in Lawrence?
A: Lawrence levies 0% local income tax. However, you are subject to the Massachusetts state income tax, which is a flat 5% on wages (with an additional 0.85% for incomes over $1 million, though that doesn't apply to this guide).
Q: Is $100k a good salary in Lawrence?
A: Yes. It is well above the city median. It provides a surplus of over $1,200 monthly for savings after covering a standard rent budget. However, it does not make you "rich" by Massachusetts standards; it makes you financially secure.
Q: Does Lawrence have a local city tax?
A: No. Unlike some municipalities in New England (like Philadelphia), Lawrence does not impose a local wage tax. Your paycheck only takes a hit from the IRS and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Tax estimates are based on 2026 IRS projections and Massachusetts State tax codes. Always consult a certified public accountant (CPA) for financial advice. Data sources include IRS Federal Tax Brackets (2026), Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), and Massachusetts State Comptroller reports.