Salary Comparison
Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers: Pasadena vs Tacoma
Side-by-side salary, take-home pay, cost of living, and lifestyle score.
Pasadena, CA
$78,530/yr
Tacoma, WA
$89,860/yr
Our recommendation: Tacoma, WA
Tacoma offers $1,620 more per month in disposable income, giving a stronger financial outcome despite comparable pay.
Full Breakdown
Pasadena
Tacoma
Diff (A−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
103
+35 pts
A vs B
Monthly Living Costs
Housing, food, transport, utilities, healthcare
$3,700
$2,770
+$930
A vs B
Monthly Rent
$2,350
$1,620
+$730
A vs B
Monthly Disposable
$1,077
$2,697
$1,620
A vs B
Purchasing Power Score
Take-home ÷ living costs. Higher is better
1.29×
1.97×
-0.68×
A vs B
Lifestyle Score
4/10 (Tight)
7/10 (Moderate)
-3
A vs B
Pasadena — Full Details
Salary estimates based on BLS metro data. Cost of living from regional price indices. All figures are estimates; verify with employers before making decisions.