Question 1

What is a good salary raise percentage?

Accepted Answer

In 2024-2025, average merit raises run 3-4% in the US. A cost-of-living raise should be at least equal to inflation (currently 2-4%). A merit increase for above-average performance: 5-8%. A promotion: 10-20%. Switching jobs: 10-30% increase on average. Staying put is the most expensive career move — job switchers earn 15% more on average than those who don't.

Question 2

How do I calculate my raise after taxes?

Accepted Answer

Your raise after taxes = raise amount × (1 - marginal tax rate). If you earn $85K and get a $10K raise, your marginal federal rate is ~22%. State tax adds another 5-8%. Combined: about 28-30% effective marginal rate. So a $10K raise nets ~$7,000 annually, or about $583/month more take-home.

Question 3

Should I negotiate my raise or just accept what's offered?

Accepted Answer

Always negotiate. Studies show 85% of employers have room above their initial offer. Bring data: your market rate (Levels.fyi, LinkedIn Salary), specific accomplishments with dollar impact, and a specific counter-offer. People who negotiate salary earn $5,000-$10,000 more on average in their first year — that advantage compounds over an entire career.

Question 4

How often should I get a raise?

Accepted Answer

Best practices: annual merit review with 3-5% COLA adjustment. Additional mid-year adjustment if promoted or scope expanded significantly. If you haven't gotten a raise in 18+ months, that's below market — initiate the conversation. Tech workers typically get raises every 12 months; government/healthcare every 12-18 months.

Salary Raise Calculator — See Your Actual Take-Home Pay Increase

Frequently Asked Questions

From the Blog