The "Real Paycheck" Breakdown
Earning $100,000 in Boston doesn't mean you take home $100,000. After Federal, Massachusetts, and FICA taxes, your estimated bi-weekly paycheck is roughly $2,827. This means roughly 26% of your income goes to taxes immediately.
The "Purchasing Power" Reality
Your net pay is $73,509, but in Boston (COL Index: ~206), it *feels* different. Adjusted for local buying power, your salary effectively functions like $35,684 in an average US city. High costs here erode your earnings.
Marginal vs. Effective Rate
Don't confuse the two. While your *top* dollar is taxed at 27.0% (Marginal), your *actual* average tax burden is only 26% (Effective). In Massachusetts, this distinction saves you roughly $1,000 in perceived liability compared to the sticker rate.
The "Bonus" Tax Trap
Expecting a bonus in Boston? Be aware that supplemental income is often taxed differently. Expect a flat 22% Federal withholding plus Massachusetts's supplemental rate of ~5%, leaving you with roughly 73% of that bonus check.
Marriage & Filing Status
Filing status matters in Massachusetts. By filing Jointly, you double your federal standard deduction to $29,200. For many Boston couples, this strictly prevents income from hitting higher tax brackets unnecessarily.
Common Tax Questions (FAQ)
Tools & Data Verified by the EverydayCalculators Financial Research Team.
Last updated: December 2025.