About this tool
Salary numbers are usually discussed in gross terms — but real life happens after tax, bills, and everyday costs. The UK Money Reality Checker is a simple, judgement-free way to turn “£X per year” into a clearer monthly picture.
Try the reality checkerWhat it does
- Shows an estimated monthly take-home amount for a selected income band.
- Shows typical monthly costs using simple, transparent assumptions.
- Lets you switch between London / Outside London typical cost profiles.
- Offers household context (single adult / couple) to reflect shared costs.
- Highlights lifestyle context based on what’s left after essentials.
What it isn’t
- Not a personalised budget planner.
- Not a tax calculator for complex situations (student loans, pensions, benefits, childcare, etc.).
- Not financial advice.
How the figures are estimated
The tool uses simplified assumptions to keep things clear and fast. Figures are designed to be “reasonable typicals” — not exact predictions.
- Income: A small set of income bands (approximate annual salaries).
- Take-home: Estimated monthly take-home amounts mapped to each band.
- Typical costs: A London profile and an Outside London profile with category averages.
- Household: A simple multiplier for couples to reflect shared costs (not double).
- Context: Lifestyle indicators are based on what remains after essentials.
Privacy
This site does not ask you to sign up, and it does not collect personal financial information. Your selections may be saved in your browser to make the experience smoother when you return.
Disclaimer
The UK Money Reality Checker provides estimates for educational and informational purposes only. It is not financial advice and should not be relied on for financial decisions.