Salary & tax questions, answered

Cost-to-Company is the total annual cost your employer carries for your role, including basic salary, employer contributions and allowances. Net take-home pay is what lands in your bank account after PAYE income tax and UIF are deducted. Our calculator converts a gross CTC figure into an estimated monthly net using current SARS 2026 rules.

The 50th percentile (median) is the midpoint of the market — half of professionals earn more and half earn less. The 25th percentile represents a typical entry-level band, while the 75th percentile reflects senior and specialist earners. These bands help you understand the realistic range for a role rather than a single misleading average.

For the 2025/2026 year of assessment, income up to R237 100 is taxed at 18%, rising through 26%, 31%, 36%, 39% and 41% bands, with the top marginal rate of 45% applying above R1 817 000 of taxable income. A primary rebate of R17 235 reduces the tax payable for taxpayers under 65, with additional rebates for those 65 and older.

The Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) deducts 1% of your remuneration from your salary each month, matched by a further 1% from your employer. The contribution is capped on a remuneration ceiling of R17 712 per month, so the maximum employee UIF deduction is R177.12 per month regardless of how much you earn.

Pay varies by metro because of cost-of-labour, industry concentration and demand. Johannesburg typically carries a premium for corporate, finance and mining roles, Cape Town is strong for tech and creative sectors, while smaller metros generally sit below the national median. Our city pages apply realistic regional modifiers to national benchmarks.

No. All figures on SalarySA are indicative market benchmarks compiled for general guidance only. Actual offers depend on your experience, qualifications, employer and negotiation. The take-home estimates are simplified and exclude variables such as retirement-fund and medical-aid tax credits. For precise figures, consult a registered tax practitioner.

A 13th cheque (annual bonus) is fully taxable and is added to your income for the month it is paid, which can push that month into a higher marginal bracket. Over a full tax year, however, it is taxed as part of your total annual income at your effective rate.