When evaluating job offers, the base salary is just the beginning. A comprehensive comparison considers total compensation, benefits, and hidden costs.
How This Calculator Works
> [!IMPORTANT] > 2025 Insight: Remote work has changed compensation equations. Consider that a lower-salary remote role may provide more take-home value than a higher-paying job with commuting costs and limited flexibility.
This calculator compares:
- Base Salary - Annual gross pay
- Bonuses - Performance and signing bonuses
- Benefits Value - Health, retirement, time off
- Hidden Costs - Commute, parking, work clothes
What to Compare
| Factor | Job A | Job B |
| Base Salary | $80,000 | $75,000 |
| 401(k) Match (3%) | $2,400 | $2,250 |
| Health Insurance Value | $8,000 | $12,000 |
| Annual Bonus | $0 | $5,000 |
| Commute Cost | -$3,600 | $0 (remote) |
| Total Package | $86,800 | $94,250 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I value health insurance?
Look at the employer contribution. If the company pays $1,000/month for your coverage, that's $12,000 in annual value you'd otherwise pay yourself.
Should I count 401(k) match as salary?
Absolutely. A 3% match on a $75,000 salary is $2,250 in free money—but only if you contribute enough to get the full match.
How do I factor in commuting costs?
Calculate annual fuel, parking, tolls, and vehicle wear. The IRS mileage rate is $0.67/mile for 2024. A 30-mile daily commute costs roughly $5,200/year.
What about equity and stock options?
Value them conservatively. For public companies, use current stock price. For startups, consider the high risk of them being worthless.
Key Points to Remember
- Always compare total compensation not just salary
- Benefits can add 25-40% to base salary value
- Factor in lifestyle impacts like commute time
- Negotiate on multiple fronts - salary, bonus, equity, flexibility