Is $120,000.00 a Good Salary at 20?
Find out how a $120,000.00 salary compares at age 20 in Australia — take home pay, age-group comparison, and whether you're on track financially.
Last verified: 1 July 2025Verdict: Top 10% for your age
At $120,000.00, you're in the top tier of earners for your age group. With smart financial management, you can achieve financial independence well ahead of schedule.
The average salary for the 18-24 age group is $55,000.00 — you earn 118% more than average.
Your Take Home Pay on $120,000.00
Annual
$90,812.00
Monthly
$7,567.67
Fortnightly
$3,492.77
Weekly
$1,746.38
How $120,000.00 Compares at Age 20
| Age Group | Average Salary | Your Salary | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 (you) | $55,000.00 | $120,000.00 | +118% |
| 25-29 | $72,000.00 | $120,000.00 | +67% |
| 30-34 | $85,000.00 | $120,000.00 | +41% |
| 35-39 | $95,000.00 | $120,000.00 | +26% |
| 40-44 | $100,000.00 | $120,000.00 | +20% |
| 45-49 | $105,000.00 | $120,000.00 | +14% |
| 50-54 | $102,000.00 | $120,000.00 | +18% |
| 55-59 | $95,000.00 | $120,000.00 | +26% |
| 60-64 | $85,000.00 | $120,000.00 | +41% |
Where You Should Be Financially at 20
Expected Savings
$1,000.00 – $10,000.00
Outside of superannuation
Expected Super Balance
$5,000.00
Based on average contributions
Expected Net Worth
$2,000.00 – $15,000.00
Including super & property equity
Are You On Track? Milestones for Age 20
- 1Build an emergency fund of $2,000-$5,000
- 2Open a high-interest savings account
- 3Start contributing to super (even small voluntary amounts compound massively)
- 4Avoid high-interest debt like credit cards and afterpay
- 5Learn to budget consistently each pay cycle
What to Focus On at 20
Frequently Asked Questions
Is $120,000.00 a good salary at 20?
Yes, $120,000.00 is above the average salary for 20 year olds in Australia. The average for the 18-24 age group is $55,000.00, so at $120,000.00 you're earning 118% more than the average.
What is the average salary for a 20 year old in Australia?
The average salary for the 18-24 age group in Australia is approximately $55,000.00 per year before tax. This is based on ABS data and includes full-time workers across all industries and states.
How much should a 20 year old have saved?
At 20, most Australians have between $1,000.00 and $10,000.00 in savings (outside of super). Your super balance should be around $5,000.00. Your total net worth (including super and any property equity) should be in the range of $2,000.00 to $15,000.00.
Am I earning enough for my age?
The "right" salary depends on your career stage, industry, location, and qualifications. The average for 20 year olds is $55,000.00. If you're below this, focus on upskilling, negotiating, or switching roles. If you're above it, focus on saving and investing the difference to build long-term wealth.
General information and estimates only — not financial, tax, or legal advice. Always verify with a licensed adviser or the ATO.