Salary Comparison
Computer Programmers: Pasadena vs Washington
Side-by-side salary, take-home pay, cost of living, and lifestyle score.
Pasadena, CA
$104,410/yr
Washington, DC
$120,839/yr
Our recommendation: Washington, DC
Washington offers $1,144 more per month in disposable income, giving a stronger financial outcome despite comparable pay.
Full Breakdown
Pasadena
Washington
Diff (A−B)
Annual Gross Salary
$104,410
$120,839
$16,429
A vs B
Monthly Take-Home
After estimated federal + state taxes
$6,352
$7,351
$999
A vs B
Cost of Living Index
Lower is more affordable. US avg = 100
138
132
+6 pts
A vs B
Monthly Living Costs
Housing, food, transport, utilities, healthcare
$3,700
$3,555
+$145
A vs B
Monthly Rent
$2,350
$2,180
+$170
A vs B
Monthly Disposable
$2,652
$3,796
$1,144
A vs B
Purchasing Power Score
Take-home ÷ living costs. Higher is better
1.72×
2.07×
-0.35×
A vs B
Lifestyle Score
6/10 (Moderate)
8/10 (Comfortable)
-2
A vs B
Pasadena — Full Details
Washington — 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.