California Take-Home Pay Calculator
Calculate your actual take-home pay in California after federal tax, California state tax, Social Security, Medicare, and deductions. California has the highest state income tax rate in the nation at 13.
Annual Breakdown
Monthly Summary
Where Your Money Goes
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Your take-home is $4,278/month. See how it flows through your budget, savings, investments, and more over time.
Try the Full SimulatorCalifornia Tax Overview
California has the highest state income tax rate in the nation at 13.3% for top earners. The progressive bracket system has 9 brackets ranging from 1% to 13.3%. California also charges a 1.1% SDI payroll tax.
Understanding Your Take-Home Pay in California
If you work in California, your take-home pay is affected by a combination of federal taxes and California-specific taxes and deductions. Here's what California residents and workers need to know about their paycheck.
California Income Tax
California has the highest state income tax rate in the nation at 13.3% for top earners. The progressive bracket system has 9 brackets ranging from 1% to 13.3%. California also charges a 1.1% SDI payroll tax.
Cost of Living in California
California's cost of living is approximately 38% above the national average, with housing costs in San Francisco and LA exceeding the national average by 100% or more. When evaluating your California take-home pay, consider how far your paycheck goes based on local costs for housing, food, transportation, and healthcare.
Financial Tips for California Residents
- Maximize pre-tax deductions like 401(k) and HSA to reduce your California tax burden
- California's SDI payroll tax (1.1%) is an additional cost beyond income tax — factor it into your budget
- Consider the high cost of living in major metros like San Francisco and LA when evaluating job offers
- California does not tax Social Security benefits, which benefits retirees
- If you work remotely for an out-of-state employer, you may still owe California taxes if you live here
Key California Tax Features
- Highest state income tax (13.3%)
- 9 progressive tax brackets
- SDI payroll tax (1.1%)
- No tax on Social Security benefits
- High cost of living in major metros
See How Your California Take-Home Pay Builds Wealth
This calculator shows your California paycheck. Trajectoryy's full simulator shows how that paycheck flows through your entire financial life — savings, investments, loans, retirement, and more.
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