On a $100,000 salary, you'd take home $60,091 in Netherlands versus $59,018 in Belgium (Brussels) — a difference of $1,073/year ($89/month).
Tax Breakdown Comparison
Netherlands
2026 tax year
Take-Home Pay
$60,091
$5,008/mo
Effective Rate
39.9%
of gross
Belgium
2025 tax year
Take-Home Pay
$59,018
$4,918/mo
Effective Rate
41.0%
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
Lowlands, High Ambition
Young professionals often find themselves torn between the sleek, tech-driven hubs of the Netherlands and the cozy, historic charm of Belgium. Whether you are drawn to Amsterdam’s canals or Brussels’ diplomatic heart, both countries offer a high quality of life for ambitious expats and growing families alike.
Bikes vs. Bistros
Life in the Netherlands is defined by efficiency, wind-swept bike rides, and a direct 'gezellig' social style. Meanwhile, Belgium leans into a slower pace, where the weekends are reserved for world-class gastronomy and the legendary beer culture that makes every evening feel like a celebration.
The Bracket Battle
The Dutch system keeps things relatively streamlined with fewer brackets, though you'll reach the top rate quite quickly. Belgium takes a more granular approach with more steps to climb, but compensates by offering a generous personal allowance and unique professional expense deductions that help soften the blow.
Investing in Wellbeing
In both nations, your tax euros buy peace of mind through robust social safety nets and infrastructure. The Netherlands integrates its national insurance into the tax bill for a more 'all-in-one' feel, while Belgium relies heavily on its social security system to fund its famous healthcare and public services.
The Local Loophole
Watch out for the regional quirks! While the Netherlands has a flat national structure, your Belgian tax bill depends on your neighborhood due to communal surcharges. Ultimately, the 'winner' depends on whether you value Dutch simplicity or the deduction-heavy Belgian lifestyle.
Compare all 140+ countries
See how Netherlands and Belgium rank globally