Real Life · Quick Calculator
Salary & Lifestyle Calculator: Income, Budget & Savings
See what your income can support with a free salary and lifestyle budget calculator. Enter household pay, savings and monthly expenses, then explore how changes in income or spending could affect your finances over time.
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Estimate salary income and take-home pay
Enter a salary, add another earner if relevant and review the example budget. For qualifying PAYE salary, the current model estimates take-home pay using England, Wales and Northern Ireland 2026/27 assumptions.
Build a monthly household budget
Housing, transport, groceries, family costs and leisure all shape the monthly surplus. Use the quick spending groups first; the detailed planner includes individual rows and timing controls.
See how pay rises and expenses affect future savings
A pay rise, changes to living costs or an increase in savings can have a larger effect over decades than it first appears. Forecasts use assumptions; they are not a guarantee of future wealth.
Frequently asked questions
Does the calculator work out my take-home salary?
It estimates PAYE income tax and employee National Insurance under the supported 2026/27 assumptions. It does not currently cover Scottish rates, student loans or every personal circumstance.
Can I include my partner’s salary?
Yes. The model supports more than one income stream, and the detailed planner provides additional timing and growth settings.
Is this the same as the lottery calculator?
Both calculators follow the same approach to income, spending and projections, but Real Life starts with everyday finances rather than a hypothetical win.