UK Salary Comparison Calculator
Compare multiple salaries side by side. Perfect for evaluating job offers, understanding the impact of a raise, or comparing positions at different levels.
Compare Salaries
Enter multiple salaries to compare take-home pay for 2025/26
Comparison Results
| Metric | Salary A | Salary B | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gross Salary | £35,000 | £50,000 | £15,000 |
| Income Tax | £4,136 | £6,986 | £2,850 |
| National Insurance | £1,654 | £2,794 | £1,140 |
| Pension | £1,750 | £2,500 | £750 |
| Take-Home Pay (Yearly) | £27,460 | £37,720 | £10,260 |
| Take-Home (Monthly) | £2,288 | £3,143 | £855 |
| Effective Tax Rate | 16.5% | 19.6% | 3.0% |
Salary A
Salary B
Understanding Salary Comparisons
Why Take-Home Pay Matters More Than Gross
A £10,000 salary increase doesn't mean £10,000 more in your pocket. After Income Tax and National Insurance, you'll typically receive 52-68% of the increase depending on your tax band.
- • Basic rate: Keep ~68% of raise
- • Higher rate: Keep ~52% of raise
- • Additional rate: Keep ~47% of raise
- • £100k+ zone: Keep ~40% (60% marginal rate)
Comparing Job Offers Fairly
When comparing job offers, consider the full package:
- • Pension: Employer contributions are tax-free benefits
- • Bonuses: Often taxed at your marginal rate
- • Benefits: Health insurance, car allowance have cash value
- • Location: Factor in commute costs and time
- • Remote work: Can save £100s/month in travel
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I compare two job offers with different salaries?
Enter both salaries in our comparison tool to see the actual take-home pay difference. A £5,000 salary increase doesn't mean £5,000 more in your pocket - after tax and NI, you'll typically see 60-70% of the difference depending on your tax band.
What is the take-home pay difference between £35,000 and £50,000?
With a £35,000 salary, you'd take home approximately £28,300/year. At £50,000, you'd take home around £38,500/year. That's a £10,200 difference in take-home pay from a £15,000 gross salary increase.
How much of a raise will I actually take home?
The percentage depends on your tax band. Basic rate taxpayers keep about 68% of a raise (32% to tax and NI). Higher rate taxpayers keep about 52% (48% to tax and NI). Additional rate taxpayers keep about 47%.
Should I accept a job with higher salary but longer commute?
Use our calculator to see the actual take-home difference, then factor in commute costs and time. A £3,000 raise might only net you £2,000 after tax - if your commute costs £150/month more, that's £1,800/year eating into your gain.