If you’ve ever wondered, “$30 an hour is how much a year?”, you’re not alone. Whether you’re negotiating a new job offer or assessing your current wage, understanding the yearly equivalent of your hourly wage is essential for smart budgeting and financial planning. Let’s break it all down.
Annual Salary at $30 an Hour (Pre-Tax)
To determine how much $30 per hour translates to annually, we’ll assume a standard full-time schedule:
- Hourly Wage: $30
- Work Hours per Week: 40
- Work Weeks per Year: 52
Calculation:
$30 × 40 hours/week = $1,200/week
$1,200 × 52 weeks/year = $62,400/year
Thus, $30 an hour is $62,400 per year before taxes, assuming full-time employment without unpaid leave.
Monthly, Weekly, and Daily Income
Breaking the annual figure into smaller timeframes helps with budgeting:
| Frequency | Income at $30/hour |
|---|---|
| Daily (8 hrs) | $240 |
| Weekly | $1,200 |
| Biweekly | $2,400 |
| Monthly | $5,200 |
This breakdown offers a clearer picture of what $30 an hour means for day-to-day expenses and long-term planning.
After-Tax Annual Income
Taxes and deductions can significantly affect take-home pay. Although tax rates vary by location and personal situation, let’s use an estimated 25% tax rate for a general idea.
- Estimated Tax: 25% of $62,400 = $15,600
- Net Income: $62,400 – $15,600 = $46,800
So, after taxes, $30 an hour is approximately $46,800 per year, depending on your state, federal, and payroll deductions.
How $30 an Hour Compares to the Median Salary
The U.S. median household income hovers around $75,000 (as of recent Census data). At $30/hour, your gross annual salary of $62,400 puts you just below the median, which is still considered a solid middle-income wage.
Additionally, compared to the federal minimum wage of $7.25/hour, $30/hour is over four times higher, offering a comfortable lifestyle in many areas.
Is $30 an Hour a Good Wage?
Yes—$30 per hour is a livable wage in many U.S. regions, particularly outside of expensive metropolitan areas. It enables moderate savings, debt repayment, and discretionary spending. However, lifestyle choices, family size, and location can influence how “comfortable” this income feels.
Budgeting on a $30 per Hour Salary
To live well on $62,400/year:
- Housing: Keep rent or mortgage under 30% of income (~$1,560/month).
- Savings: Aim to save 20% monthly (~$1,040).
- Essentials: Use 50% on needs like food, utilities, and transport.
- Wants: Allocate 30% for leisure and non-essentials.
Using the 50/30/20 rule simplifies money management and supports financial health.
Jobs That Pay $30 an Hour
Many skilled roles offer this wage:
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
- Electrician
- Plumber
- Freelance Graphic Designer
- Bookkeeper
- Paralegal
Whether through certifications, trade school, or experience, $30/hour roles are attainable with focused training.
Living in High vs. Low-Cost Areas
While $30 an hour stretches further in small towns or rural areas, it may feel limiting in cities like San Francisco or New York. Adjusting your lifestyle, considering roommates, or relocating can help align your income with your cost of living.
Improving Your Earning Potential
To move beyond $30/hour:
- Learn high-demand skills (e.g., coding, project management)
- Seek promotions or lateral moves in your industry
- Freelance or start a side hustle
- Negotiate your salary regularly
With time and strategy, you can increase your income and financial stability.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is $30 an hour considered a good salary in 2025?
Yes, especially in regions with moderate living costs. It supports a comfortable lifestyle with savings potential.
2. Can I live alone on $30/hour?
Absolutely—in most areas, $30/hour is enough to cover rent, bills, and personal expenses.
3. How much is $30 an hour after taxes?
Roughly $46,800/year, depending on your tax bracket and deductions.
4. What careers pay around $30/hour?
Skilled trades, healthcare support roles, and tech-adjacent freelance gigs commonly pay this rate.
5. Is $30/hour enough to support a family?
It depends on the family size and cost of living. For a small family in a low-cost area, it’s sufficient.
6. How many hours do I need to work to earn $30,000 a year at $30/hour?
You’d need to work 1,000 hours/year (about 19.2 hours/week) to earn $30,000.
Final Thoughts
Understanding “$30 an hour is how much a year“ is key to better financial planning. Whether you’re budgeting, negotiating, or comparing job offers, knowing the annual, monthly, and daily income breakdown helps you take control of your finances. With strategic choices and mindful spending, earning $30 an hour can be the foundation for a solid financial future.
