Is $30 an Hour a Good Salary?
A comprehensive look at what $30/hour ($62,400/year) means for your lifestyle, savings, and goals across U.S. states.
At $30 an hour, working 40 hours per week for 52 weeks, you'd earn $62,400 per year before taxes. That's about 29% above the U.S. median individual income and is considered a solidly middle-class wage in nearly every part of the country. Whether it's "great" depends on where you live, your family size, and your savings goals.
Monthly Take-Home Pay at $30/Hour
Your gross monthly income at $30/hour is approximately $5,200. After federal tax, Social Security (6.2%), Medicare (1.45%), and state tax, most workers take home $3,800–$4,400 per month.
In no-income-tax states like Texas and Florida, take-home is at the higher end. California and New York reduce it noticeably. See our $30/hour annual salary page for full math.
Is $30/Hour Good in Different States?
How far $62,400 stretches depends on where you live. Here's a state-by-state overview:
| State | State Tax | Est. Take-Home | Cost of Living | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | No state income tax | $51,000–$53,000 | Below average | Very comfortable |
| Florida | No state income tax | $51,000–$53,000 | Moderate | Comfortable |
| California | Up to 13.3% | $46,500–$49,500 | High | Workable in most cities |
| New York | Up to 10.9% | $45,500–$48,500 | Very high (NYC) | Tight in NYC |
| Ohio | Up to 3.75% | $50,000–$52,000 | Low | Excellent |
| Washington | No state income tax | $51,000–$53,000 | Moderate–high | Comfortable |
Note: Estimates assume single filer, standard deduction, no dependents.
Cost of Living Breakdown
The 30% rule on housing means up to $1,560/month for rent or mortgage at $62,400/year. In Dallas, Phoenix, or Raleigh, this comfortably affords a one-bedroom or modest two-bedroom; in NYC or SF, expect a studio or roommates.
A typical $30/hour monthly budget: $500–$700 groceries, $300–$500 transportation, $150–$300 utilities, $200–$400 health insurance. After essentials, $1,000–$1,800 remains for savings, retirement, and discretionary spending.
Where $30/Hour Goes Furthest
Mid-tier cities like Columbus, San Antonio, Nashville, and Pittsburgh offer the best ratio of income to lifestyle. At $30/hour you can comfortably rent, save 15%+ for retirement, and still enjoy discretionary spending.
How $30/Hour Compares to Other Wages
Compared to $25/hour ($52,000), $30/hour adds $10,400/year. Moving to $35/hour ($72,800) adds another $10,400. At $30/hour you earn 4.1× the federal minimum wage of $7.25.
See related analysis: Is $25/hour a good salary? or Is $20/hour a good salary?
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Legal Disclaimer
This calculator is for informational and educational purposes only. The results provided should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice.
While we strive to provide accurate calculations based on federal FLSA guidelines, employment law is complex and varies by state, industry, and individual circumstances. Factors such as job classification, exemption status, collective bargaining agreements, and local regulations may affect your actual pay calculations.
We recommend consulting with:
- Your employer's HR department for specific payroll questions
- A qualified employment attorney for legal advice
- A certified public accountant (CPA) for tax-related matters
- Your state labor department for local regulations
By using this calculator, you acknowledge that the results are estimates only and may not reflect your actual earnings or legal entitlements.