Your Pay Details
Your Take-Home Pay
| Gross Pay | $0 |
| Federal Income Tax | –$0 |
| Social Security (6%) | –$0 |
| Medicare (1.45%) | –$0 |
| South Carolina State Tax | –$0 |
| Take-Home Pay | $0 |
How Your South Carolina Paycheck Works
South Carolina has a graduated income tax with rates from 0% to 6% for 2025. The state has been phasing down its top rate from a previous high of 7%.
Federal Income Tax
Calculated using 2025 federal brackets from 10% to 37%, applied to taxable income after the standard deduction.
Social Security
6% of gross pay up to $176,100. Funds the Social Security retirement and disability program.
Medicare
1.45% of all gross pay. High earners over $200K pay an additional 0.9% surtax.
South Carolina State Tax
South Carolina uses graduated income tax brackets ranging from 0%–6%. Lower incomes pay lower rates.
2025 South Carolina State Tax Brackets
Here are the South Carolina income tax brackets for single filers in 2025.
| Rate | Taxable Income (Single) |
|---|---|
| 0% | $0 – $3,460 |
| 3.00% | $3,461 – $17,030 |
| 6.20% | $17,031+ |
Major Cities in South Carolina
Whether you live in Charleston, Columbia, or anywhere else in South Carolina, state tax rates apply uniformly — your city does not change your paycheck calculation. Local taxes and cost of living vary by city, as shown below.
* Population from U.S. Census estimates. Home prices and rent are 2023–2024 estimates. Local income tax applies to residents unless noted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is South Carolina's state income tax rate?
South Carolina has graduated income tax rates ranging from 0%–6%. The rate you pay depends on your taxable income after deductions.
How much of my paycheck goes to taxes in South Carolina?
A single filer earning $55,000/year in South Carolina typically pays an effective state rate well below the top bracket rate. Combined with federal taxes and FICA, total deductions typically run 25–33% of gross pay.
What is FICA and how much is it?
FICA covers Social Security (6% up to $176,100) and Medicare (1.45% with no cap). Together that is 7.65% of gross pay, paid by every US worker regardless of state.
How do pre-tax deductions like a 401(k) reduce my taxes?
Pre-tax deductions reduce both your federal and state taxable income. A $5,000 annual 401(k) contribution can save hundreds in combined federal and state taxes.
How accurate is this calculator?
This calculator uses 2025 federal and state tax brackets. Results are estimates — your actual paycheck may vary based on W-4 elections, employer deductions, and local taxes not included here.