Compare Two UK Salaries
After Tax 2026/27
Which job actually pays more? Compare the real take-home of two salaries side by side, after income tax, NI, and pension.
2026/27 · Standard tax code 1257L · Auto-enrolment pension at 5% on qualifying earnings (£6,240–£50,270 band) · Does not include student loan repayments or salary sacrifice.
Why the same pay rise means different things at different salaries
A £5,000 pay rise from £30,000 to £35,000 puts roughly £285/month more in your pocket — because that £5,000 is all taxed at 20% NI at 8% = 28% combined.
A £5,000 pay rise from £50,000 to £55,000 puts roughly £195/month more in your pocket — because you cross the higher rate threshold at £50,270. The portion above that is taxed at 40% instead of 20%, and NI drops to 2% above £50,270.
This tool makes the difference visible — enter any two salaries to see exactly what each means for your bank account.
Frequently asked questions
How do I compare two UK salaries after tax?
Enter both salaries above. The tool calculates income tax, National Insurance, and pension for each, then shows the monthly and annual take-home side by side. The difference accounts for all deductions so you can see which salary actually puts more in your pocket.
Does a higher salary always mean more take-home pay?
Yes — a higher gross salary always means a higher net pay. However, the margin narrows as you move into higher tax bands. Earning £5,000 more in the basic rate band (20%) saves you much more than £5,000 more in the higher rate band (40%), and pension auto-enrolment is capped at the qualifying earnings upper limit of £50,270.
Does the comparison include pension contributions?
Yes. The tool applies the standard auto-enrolment pension rate of 5% on qualifying earnings (the £6,240–£50,270 band). If either salary exceeds the upper qualifying earnings limit, pension contributions cap out at that level.
Can I use this to compare a salary vs day rate?
This tool compares two annual PAYE salaries. For comparing a day rate contract with a permanent salary — including the impact of IR35, employer NI, and umbrella margins — use our day rate and IR35 calculator instead.