The Salary Index

Salary Comparison

Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers: Pasadena vs Kent

Side-by-side salary, take-home pay, cost of living, and lifestyle score.

Pasadena, CA

$78,530/yr

Take-home$4,777/mo
Disposable$1,077/mo
Lifestyle4/10 ยท Tight
Best Value

Kent, WA

$89,860/yr

Take-home$5,467/mo
Disposable$2,659/mo
Lifestyle7/10 ยท Moderate
๐Ÿ†

Our recommendation: Kent, WA

Kent offers $1,582 more per month in disposable income, giving a stronger financial outcome despite comparable pay.

Full Breakdown

Pasadena

Kent

Diff (Aโˆ’B)

Annual Gross Salary

$78,530

$89,860

$11,330

A vs B

Monthly Take-Home

After estimated federal + state taxes

$4,777

$5,467

$690

A vs B

Cost of Living Index

Lower is more affordable. US avg = 100

138

105

+33 pts

A vs B

Monthly Living Costs

Housing, food, transport, utilities, healthcare

$3,700

$2,808

+$892

A vs B

Monthly Rent

$2,350

$1,650

+$700

A vs B

Monthly Disposable

$1,077

$2,659

$1,582

A vs B

Purchasing Power Score

Take-home รท living costs. Higher is better

1.29ร—

1.95ร—

-0.66ร—

A vs B

Lifestyle Score

4/10 (Tight)

7/10 (Moderate)

-3

A vs B

Salary estimates based on BLS metro data. Cost of living from regional price indices. All figures are estimates; verify with employers before making decisions.