On a $100,000 salary, you'd take home $72,211 in United Kingdom (London) versus $71,109 in Canada (Ontario) — a difference of $1,102/year ($92/month).
Tax Breakdown Comparison
United Kingdom
2025-26 tax year
Take-Home Pay
$72,211
$6,018/mo
Effective Rate
27.8%
of gross
Canada
2025 tax year
Take-Home Pay
$71,109
$5,926/mo
Effective Rate
28.9%
of gross
Effective Tax Rate by Income
Shows effective tax rate (total tax / gross income) at different income levels in USD
Life & Taxes
What it's like to live and earn in each country
A Tale of Two Commonwealths
Whether you're a tech professional eyeing Toronto’s glass towers or a creative drawn to London's historic cobblestones, moving between these giants is a classic expat rite of passage. Canada offers a rugged, outdoorsy lifestyle for families seeking space, while the UK provides a fast-paced, culturally dense hub perfect for those who want Europe at their doorstep.
The Simple vs. The Layered
Tax life in the UK is refreshingly straightforward with a single national system, whereas Canada’s federal and provincial layers—like the Ontario setup—mean you'll be navigating two sets of rules. While Canada has more tax brackets to climb, the UK’s top rates kick in with a more sudden, sharper bite for high earners.
Your Monthly Safety Net
Both nations pride themselves on social care, but the mechanisms differ; Canada relies on CPP and Employment Insurance to protect your future, while the UK’s National Insurance is the pulse of its welfare state. You aren't just paying a bill; you're buying into world-class healthcare and a robust safety net that defines the 'quality of life' both countries are famous for.
Watch Out for Tapers
The 'hidden' complexity often lies in the phase-outs, like the UK’s tapering personal allowance or Canada’s vanishing tax credits for the wealthy. In Ontario, you might even encounter unique surcharges that make the math a bit more colorful than you first expected when looking at the base rates.
The Ultimate Verdict
If you prefer a simpler tax return and proximity to global travel, the UK is your winner. However, if you want lower top-tier marginal rates and don't mind a bit of provincial paperwork in exchange for vast landscapes and a slightly more progressive ladder, Canada is the place to plant your roots.
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