Salary Comparison Calculator
A bigger salary with longer hours isn't always more money per hour. Compare both on the same basis.
Your details
Results update as you type.
+$8,000
Salary A pays more per year
- Hourly rate — A
- $34.67/hr
- Hourly rate — B
- $36.84/hr
- Hourly difference
- −$2.18/hr
- Annual hours — A
- 2,250 hrs
- Annual hours — B
- 1,900 hrs
- Percent difference in salary
- 11.43%
Based on the information entered, option B pays more per hour worked.
How this calculator works
- 1Each salary is divided by its own annual hours to get a comparable hourly rate.
- 2The annual and hourly differences are shown separately, because they can point in opposite directions.
- 3Only pay and hours are compared here — benefits and commute live in the job offer comparison tool.
Formula
Hourly rate = Salary ÷ (Hours per week × Weeks per year)
Worked example
- $78,000 at 45 hours a week versus $70,000 at 38 hours, 50 weeks each.
- A is $34.67 per hour; B is $36.84 per hour.
- A pays $8,000 more per year, but B pays $2.17 more per hour worked.
What we assume
- Both options are assumed to work the same number of weeks per year.
- Gross pay only; taxes and benefits are excluded.
Frequently asked questions
Which number matters more, salary or hourly?
It depends on your goal. Total salary matters for bills; hourly rate tells you what your time is worth.
Where do benefits fit in?
Use the job offer comparison calculator, which includes bonus, retirement match and benefits value.
Should I compare gross or net pay?
Gross is fine for comparing offers in the same state. Compare net if the offers are in states with very different income taxes.
Results are estimates based on the information you provide and may differ from your actual paycheck. This calculator is for informational and planning purposes and is not tax, payroll, legal, or financial advice.