The Salary Index

Salary Comparison

Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers: South Portland vs Newton

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

Best Value

South Portland, ME

$64,184/yr

Take-home$3,905/mo
Disposable$1,520/mo
Lifestyle6/10 ยท Moderate

Newton, MA

$81,000/yr

Take-home$4,928/mo
Disposable$1,093/mo
Lifestyle4/10 ยท Tight
๐Ÿ†

Our recommendation: South Portland, ME

South Portland offers $427 more per month in disposable income, giving a stronger financial outcome despite a lower gross salary.

Full Breakdown

South Portland

Newton

Diff (Aโˆ’B)

Annual Gross Salary

$64,184

$81,000

$16,816

A vs B

Monthly Take-Home

After estimated federal + state taxes

$3,905

$4,928

$1,023

A vs B

Cost of Living Index

Lower is more affordable. US avg = 100

92

148

-56 pts

A vs B

Monthly Living Costs

Housing, food, transport, utilities, healthcare

$2,385

$3,835

$1,450

A vs B

Monthly Rent

$1,371

$2,206

$835

A vs B

Monthly Disposable

$1,520

$1,093

+$427

A vs B

Purchasing Power Score

Take-home รท living costs. Higher is better

1.64ร—

1.29ร—

+0.35ร—

A vs B

Lifestyle Score

6/10 (Moderate)

4/10 (Tight)

+2

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.