How to calculate a raise
There are two common questions, and each has a one-line formula:
- New salary from a percentage:
new salary = current salary × (1 + raise % ÷ 100) - Percentage from two salaries:
raise % = (new − current) ÷ current × 100
For example, a 6% raise on $90,000 is $5,400, for a new salary of $95,400, or $450 more each month before tax.
Check the raise against inflation
A raise only increases your buying power if it beats inflation. The calculator shows a real raise: (1 + raise) ÷ (1 + inflation) − 1. A 3% raise in a year with 3% inflation leaves your buying power about where it was.
Using the number in a conversation
- Anchor on the new salary you want, not just the percentage; it is easier to discuss concretely.
- Compare it with what similar roles pay. Job listings that publish salary ranges are a good, current reference.
- If you have an offer to negotiate, the salary negotiation email generator turns your number into a polite counter-offer.