The $100,000 Salary Analysis for Scranton

This guide strips away the hype. A $100,000 salary looks great on paper, but after the government takes its share and you pay Scranton prices, the reality is different. We are analyzing Purchasing Power (what your money actually buys) versus Nominal Salary (the headline number).

1. The Verification Test

Here is the math on a $100,000 annual salary. This assumes you are a single filer taking the standard deduction.

• Gross Salary: $100,000
• Federal Income Tax: ~$14,000 (Effective rate ~14%)
• FICA (Social Security/Medicare): ~$7,650
• PA State Income Tax: $3,072 (Flat 3.07% rate)
• Estimated Net Pay (Annual): ~$75,278
• Estimated Monthly Take-Home: ~$6,273

Note: This does not include potential local earned income taxes (EIT), which vary by Scranton municipality.

2. Smart Budget (50/30/20)

Using your monthly take-home of $6,273, here is how a realistic budget looks.

Needs (50%): $3,136

• Rent (1BR Average): $854
• Utilities (Electric/Heating/Water): ~$160
• Groceries: ~$400
• Car Payment/Insurance: ~$600
• Health Insurance (Employer Share): ~$200
• Remaining for Needs: $922 (Covers phone, internet, misc).

Wants (30%): $1,881

• This covers dining out, entertainment, subscriptions, and travel. You have significant room here, provided you don't have excessive debt.

Savings (20%): $1,254

• This is your wealth-building bucket. It is solid, but not "retire in 10 years" money.

3. Scranton Tax Context

Pennsylvania is a "High Tax, High Service" state compared to the national average.

• Vs. Texas/Florida: You are paying roughly $3,072 more in state income tax than you would in a no-income-tax state. However, PA property taxes are generally lower than TX/FL insurance costs.
• Vs. California/NY: You are saving roughly $5,000–$7,000 annually in state income tax compared to high-tax coastal states.
• The Verdict: PA sits in the middle. You aren't bleeding money like in NY, but you are definitely paying for the privilege of living here compared to the Gulf Coast.

4. FAQ

"Is $100k good here?"
Yes. It is a strong salary in Scranton. You will live comfortably, afford the $854 rent with ease, and have disposable income. However, it is not "wealthy" money. If you have children or significant debt, that $6,273 monthly cash flow disappears quickly.

"Local income tax?"
Yes. Scranton residents may be subject to a Local Earned Income Tax (EIT), typically 1% for residents (plus a variable LST). This was not factored into the primary net pay calculation above, meaning your actual take-home could be $100–$200 less per month depending on your specific municipality code. Check your paystub.