Salary Comparison
Computer Programmers: Pasadena vs Seattle
Side-by-side salary, take-home pay, cost of living, and lifestyle score.
Pasadena, CA
$104,410/yr
Seattle, WA
$167,970/yr
Our recommendation: Seattle, WA
Seattle offers $4,196 more per month in disposable income, giving a stronger financial outcome despite comparable pay.
Full Breakdown
Pasadena
Seattle
Diff (A−B)
Annual Gross Salary
$104,410
$167,970
$63,560
A vs B
Monthly Take-Home
After estimated federal + state taxes
$6,352
$10,218
$3,866
A vs B
Cost of Living Index
Lower is more affordable. US avg = 100
138
126
+12 pts
A vs B
Monthly Living Costs
Housing, food, transport, utilities, healthcare
$3,700
$3,370
+$330
A vs B
Monthly Rent
$2,350
$2,050
+$300
A vs B
Monthly Disposable
$2,652
$6,848
$4,196
A vs B
Purchasing Power Score
Take-home ÷ living costs. Higher is better
1.72×
3.03×
-1.31×
A vs B
Lifestyle Score
6/10 (Moderate)
10/10 (Comfortable)
-4
A vs B
Pasadena — Full Details
Seattle — 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.