Is $40,000.00 a Good Salary at 20?
Find out how a $40,000.00 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: Below average for your age
At $40,000.00, you're earning below the average for your age group. This doesn't mean you're doing badly — many people at this income level live comfortably by managing expenses well.
The average salary for the 18-24 age group is $55,000.00 — you earn 27% less than average.
Your Take Home Pay on $40,000.00
Annual
$35,712.00
Monthly
$2,976.00
Fortnightly
$1,373.54
Weekly
$686.77
How $40,000.00 Compares at Age 20
| Age Group | Average Salary | Your Salary | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 (you) | $55,000.00 | $40,000.00 | -27% |
| 25-29 | $72,000.00 | $40,000.00 | -44% |
| 30-34 | $85,000.00 | $40,000.00 | -53% |
| 35-39 | $95,000.00 | $40,000.00 | -58% |
| 40-44 | $100,000.00 | $40,000.00 | -60% |
| 45-49 | $105,000.00 | $40,000.00 | -62% |
| 50-54 | $102,000.00 | $40,000.00 | -61% |
| 55-59 | $95,000.00 | $40,000.00 | -58% |
| 60-64 | $85,000.00 | $40,000.00 | -53% |
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 $40,000.00 a good salary at 20?
$40,000.00 is below the average salary for 20 year olds in Australia. The average for the 18-24 age group is $55,000.00. However, salary is only one part of financial health — your savings, spending habits, and investments matter too.
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.