GS Grade & Locality Comparisons 2026
Side-by-side take-home pay comparisons showing the actual dollar difference after all federal deductions. See how much more you take home at a higher grade or in a different locality.
Grade Comparisons
What's the real difference in take-home pay between adjacent GS grades? These comparisons show net pay after FERS, TSP, FEHB, FICA, and income taxes — not just gross salary.
Side-by-side take-home pay comparison for GS-5 and GS-7 federal employees.
Side-by-side take-home pay comparison for GS-7 and GS-9 federal employees.
Side-by-side take-home pay comparison for GS-9 and GS-11 federal employees.
Side-by-side take-home pay comparison for GS-11 and GS-12 federal employees.
Side-by-side take-home pay comparison for GS-12 and GS-13 federal employees.
Side-by-side take-home pay comparison for GS-13 and GS-14 federal employees.
Locality Comparisons
Higher locality pay doesn't always mean more money in your pocket — state taxes, cost of living, and higher deductions on larger salaries all play a role.
Compare take-home pay in Washington DC (33.94%) vs Rest of US (17.06%) locality areas.
Compare take-home pay in Washington DC vs San Francisco locality areas.
Compare take-home pay in Washington DC (with DC tax) vs Texas (no state income tax).
Compare take-home pay in California (13.3% top rate) vs Texas (no state income tax).