Highest Take-Home
Australia
2025-26
28.0%
effective tax rate
Take-home
$71,980
$5,998/mo
Income 25% Social 2% Other 1%
On a $100,000 salary, you'd take home $71,980 in Australia versus $71,516 in New Zealand.
Australia
$71,980
+$465/year
New Zealand
$71,516
That's $39 more per month in Australia
Side-by-side breakdown
New Zealand
2025-26
28.5%
effective tax rate
Take-home
$71,516
$5,960/mo
Income 27% Social 1%
Tax rate by income level
Effective Tax Rate by Income
Shows effective tax rate (total tax / gross income) at different income levels in USD
Understanding the difference
Life & Taxes
Chasing the Tasman Dream
Whether it’s Kiwis hopping over the ditch for higher wages or Aussies seeking a slower pace of life in the Southern Alps, the migration between these two nations is a constant cultural dance. Families and professionals alike are drawn to the shared love of the outdoors, balanced by a fierce sports rivalry that keeps things interesting.
Sunsets vs. Snow Peaks
Australia offers a sun-drenched, high-energy lifestyle where big city living meets world-class beaches, usually accompanied by a higher cost of living. In contrast, New Zealand provides a more intimate, community-focused vibe where you’re never more than a short drive from rugged wilderness or a quiet coastline.
The Tax Man’s Strategy
Australia uses a progressive system with a generous tax-free threshold, meaning lower earners keep every cent of their initial income before the brackets kick in. New Zealand takes a more straightforward approach by taxing from the very first dollar, though its top-tier rate remains significantly lower than its neighbor's peak.
Your Health and Safety
In Australia, the Medicare Levy ensures everyone contributes to a robust public health system, though higher earners might face surcharges if they skip private cover. New Zealanders trade that for the unique ACC system, a no-fault insurance scheme that covers personal injuries for everyone in the country, funded by a dedicated levy.
The Ultimate Verdict
High-flyers often find Australia’s top rates a bit stinging, yet they enjoy a broader range of tax offsets and a massive economy. Meanwhile, New Zealand wins on simplicity and a lower ceiling for top earners, making it an attractive refuge for those who value a streamlined system without the complexity of state-level variations.
Detailed tax breakdown
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