How to Compare Two Job Offers
Two offers is a good problem — and a confusing one. Here's a step-by-step method to compare them on the things that matter, not just the salary.
Make the offers comparable
Two offers rarely come in the same shape. One may have a higher base but a weaker bonus; the other may offer remote days but less leave. Before you compare, normalise each one to the same categories: base salary, bonus, benefits value, hours, commute, and growth.
Compare real take-home, not gross
A higher gross salary can mean a smaller take-home after tax, especially across state lines. Estimate take-home for each offer using the Salary Comparison Calculator, which applies US federal, state and FICA estimates. Two offers that look $10,000 apart can be much closer once tax is taken out.
Put a value on benefits
Health insurance, retirement matching, paid leave and other perks are part of pay. Estimate the yearly value of each offer's benefits and add it to the comparison. A lower base with a strong 401(k) match and good health cover can beat a higher base with thin benefits.
Count the time each role takes
Add working hours, commute and expected overtime. A role that pays 10% more but takes 10 more hours a week gives you a lower real hourly rate. Use the Job Offer Calculator to see the true hourly rate and total annual time for each offer.
Weigh growth and culture
Money is measurable; growth and culture are what make you glad or sorry a year later. For each offer ask: what will I be doing in 18 months? What skills and network will I build? How did they treat me during the interview? What's turnover on the team?
Use a weighted score
When the offers are close, a weighted score helps. Decide how much you care about money, time, wellbeing, security and growth, then score each offer on each. The calculator does this for you and shows the trade-offs explicitly, so you can see why one comes out ahead.
Handle the offer you're declining
Once you've decided, respond to both employers promptly and professionally. The offer you decline today may be the one you want in three years — how you say no matters.
A simple decision rule
If one offer wins on money and growth and doesn't cost you in time or wellbeing, it's the clear choice. If they split — one wins on money, the other on life — your priorities decide it. That's exactly what a weighted comparison is for.
FAQ
What if the offers are very close? Close offers are usually a sign that either is fine, and the decision should come down to the factor you most regret losing: growth, time, or security. Pick the one that's strongest on that factor.
Should I tell each employer about the other offer? You can, carefully, to create urgency or open negotiation — but never fabricate an offer, and don't share the other company's details. Use it as leverage for a better package, not a threat.
How do I compare offers in different cities? Compare take-home pay after each state's tax, then adjust for the cost of living (housing, transport, childcare) in each city. A higher salary in a pricier city can leave you worse off.
Put this into practice
Use the interactive tool to apply this to your own situation.