Job Offer Comparison Calculator (2026)
A higher salary is not always the better offer. State income tax, the 401(k) match, what you pay for health insurance and your commute can easily swing the result by thousands of dollars. Enter both offers to see which one is really worth more.
Total value = take-home pay + your 401(k) savings + employer match - commute costs. Health premiums are treated as pre-tax.
Examples (single filer)
| Offers | Offer A total | Offer B total |
|---|---|---|
| A: $85,000 in California, 50% match up to 6%. B: $80,000 in Texas, 100% match up to 4% | $64,529 | $67,322 |
| A: $100,000 in New York, 100% match up to 5%. B: $95,000 + $5,000 bonus in Florida, 50% match up to 6% | $76,168 | $80,378 |
In the first example the $5,000 lower salary in Texas still comes out ahead, because there is no state income tax, a richer match and lower costs.
What to compare besides salary
- State and city tax. The same salary can take home very different amounts. See the state vs state calculator.
- 401(k) match. "100% up to 4%" and "50% up to 6%" are not the same. On $80,000 the first is $3,200 a year, the second $2,400.
- Health insurance. Monthly premiums of $50 vs $300 is a $3,000 a year difference, before deductibles.
- Commute and remote work. Gas, parking, transit and time all cost money.
- Paid time off, vesting and equity. Not in the math above, but worth weighing.
How this calculator works
For each offer it takes salary plus bonus, subtracts your health premiums (pre-tax), and runs the same 2026 federal, Social Security, Medicare and state tax math used in our 51 state paycheck calculators, including your 401(k) contribution. Then it adds back your own 401(k) savings and the employer match (the match only applies on what you contribute, up to the limit), and subtracts commute costs. City taxes are not included.
FAQ
Is a higher salary always better?
No. After state tax, benefits and costs, a lower salary can leave you with more money, especially when moving to a state with no income tax.
How do I value a 401(k) match?
Multiply your salary by the matched percent and the match rate. For example 50% up to 6% on $80,000 is $2,400 a year, but only if you contribute at least 6%.
Should I include my own 401(k) contributions?
Yes. They lower your take-home pay but stay your money, so this calculator counts them in the total value.
Are health premiums pre-tax?
Usually, when paid through your employer's plan. That lowers federal, Social Security, Medicare and most state taxes.
What about city taxes?
They are not included. Use the city income tax calculator for places like New York City or Philadelphia.
Rules and rates last checked: October 2026. This is an estimate for general information only, not financial, tax or legal advice. Check IRS.gov or a tax professional before you file.