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Germany vs United States

Compare cost of living, taxes, salaries and visas between Germany and United States.

GermanyUnited States
Cost of living
Cost of living index115116
Taxes
Income tax (top rate)45%37%
VAT / sales tax19%0%
Social security (employee)20%7.7%
Corporate tax30%21%
Capital gains26.4%20%
Economy & salaries
Avg net salary$2,900/mo$4,300/mo
Minimum wage$2,200/mo$1,257/mo
GDP per capita$52,000$82,000
Life expectancy81 yr79 yr
Quality of life
LGBTQ+ acceptanceHighHigh
Digital-nomad visaNoNo

? Frequently asked questions

Is Germany cheaper than United States?

United States is about 0% more expensive than Germany overall β€” its cost-of-living index is 116 versus 115 for Germany.

How much do you need to earn in United States to live like in Germany?

To keep the same standard of living, a $75,000 salary in Germany is worth about $75,217 in United States. Enter your own figure in the calculator above.

Which has lower taxes, Germany or United States?

United States has the lower top income-tax rate β€” 37% versus 45% in Germany.