Highest Take-Home
New Zealand
2025-26
28.5%
effective tax rate
Take-home
$71,516
$5,960/mo
Income 27% Social 1%
On a $100,000 salary, you'd take home $71,516 in New Zealand versus $68,221 in Ireland.
New Zealand
$71,516
+$3,295/year
Ireland
$68,221
That's $275 more per month in New Zealand
Side-by-side breakdown
Ireland
2025
31.8%
effective tax rate
Take-home
$68,221
$5,685/mo
Income 25% Social 7%
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
Rugby, Rain, and Relocation
Whether it's the rolling greens of the Emerald Isle or the dramatic peaks of Middle-earth, both nations attract adventurous spirits seeking a balance of rugged nature and friendly urban hubs. Digital nomads and young professionals often hop between these two for their shared English-speaking ease and legendary pub cultures.
Living the Island Life
Life in Ireland feels like an ancient story meeting a tech-heavy future, where cozy village pubs sit alongside global headquarters. New Zealand offers a more laid-back, outdoor-centric 'kiwi' lifestyle where the work-day ends early enough to catch a wave or hike a trail before sunset.
Two Paths to Payday
New Zealand keeps things granular with five progressive steps, while Ireland sticks to a simpler two-tier system that jumps quickly into the top bracket. While Ireland offers generous personal credits that act as a safety net for lower earners, New Zealanders face a broader spread of rates that feels more incremental.
The Safety Net Split
In Ireland, your paycheck supports the Universal Social Charge and national insurance, feeding into a robust European-style social model. New Zealand takes a unique approach with its ACC levy, a world-first no-fault insurance scheme that covers everyone for personal injuries, reflecting the country's active, high-octane lifestyle.
The Ultimate Bottom Line
If you are a high-flyer, Ireland’s simplified tax system and proximity to Europe are enticing, though the top rate hits early. New Zealand is the winner for those who value simplicity and specific protection against life's accidents, making it the premier choice for the active, outdoorsy professional.
Detailed tax breakdown
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