Calculate your take-home pay in The Golden State. California income tax rate: 13.3%.
California has the highest top marginal income tax rate in the nation at 13.3% (including a 1% mental health surcharge on income over $1 million). The state has 10 tax brackets. California also charges State Disability Insurance (SDI) at 1.1% on wages up to $153,164. California uses its own standard deduction ($5,540 single) which is lower than the federal amount.
| Item | Per Paycheck | Monthly | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gross Pay | - | - | - |
| Federal Income Tax | - | - | - |
| California State Tax | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Social Security | - | - | - |
| Medicare | - | - | - |
| 401(k) + Pre-Tax | - | - | - |
| Take-Home Pay | - | - | - |
California has a progressive income tax system with a top rate of 13.3%. This calculator estimates your take-home pay after federal income tax, state income tax, Social Security, Medicare, and any pre-tax deductions like 401(k) contributions. Enter your salary or hourly wage above to see a detailed breakdown of your paycheck.
Regardless of state taxes, all California workers pay federal income tax using the 2025 brackets: 10% on the first $11,925 of taxable income (single), 12% up to $48,475, 22% up to $103,350, 24% up to $197,300, 32% up to $250,525, 35% up to $626,350, and 37% on income above that. The standard deduction is $15,000 for single filers and $30,000 for married filing jointly in 2025.
All workers in California pay Social Security tax at 6.2% on wages up to $176,100 (2025) and Medicare tax at 1.45% on all wages. An additional 0.9% Medicare surtax applies to wages over $200,000 for single filers.