2026 planning calculator

California vs Texas employee cost calculator

Compare estimated employer cost ranges for a W-2 employee in California and Texas, including payroll taxes, SUTA assumptions, workers comp ranges, benefits, and admin cost.

Estimated annual cost

$0 - $0

CA
Base salary$0
Burden above salary0%
Monthly equivalent$0
Confidence profile

Federal payroll taxes are high-confidence. SUTA and workers compensation are planning estimates unless you enter assigned rates.

Next step: compare payroll providers

Use this estimate to decide whether payroll software, a PEO, or an HRIS platform fits the hire.

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IRS FICA/FUTA SUTA configurable Workers comp range BLS benefits benchmark

General planning estimate only. Not payroll, tax, legal, insurance, or HR compliance advice.

State comparison

California vs Texas: employee cost comparison for employers

Use the calculator above to compare employer cost assumptions for California and Texas. The largest differences usually come from state unemployment wage bases, workers compensation assumptions, benefits choices, admin model, and state-specific programs.

StateCaliforniaTexas
New employer SUTA3.40%2.70%
SUTA wage base$7,000$9,000
Workers comp defaultHigher planning rangeLower planning range