2026 planning calculator
California vs Texas employee cost comparison
Compare estimated employer cost ranges for a W-2 employee in California and Texas.
Estimated annual cost
$0 - $0
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.
General planning estimate only. Not payroll, tax, legal, insurance, or HR compliance advice.
State comparison
California vs Texas: employee cost comparison
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, 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