Highest Take-Home
United Kingdom
2025-26 · London
27.8%
effective tax rate
Take-home
$72,162
$6,013/mo
Income 23% Social 5%
On a $100,000 salary, you'd take home $72,162 in United Kingdom versus $71,496 in New Zealand.
United Kingdom
$72,162
+$665/year
New Zealand
$71,496
That's $55 more per month in United Kingdom
Side-by-side breakdown
New Zealand
2025-26
28.5%
effective tax rate
Take-home
$71,496
$5,958/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 Sun or City Lights
Young professionals often flock to the UK for the fast-paced career ladder and proximity to Europe, while families and outdoor enthusiasts head to New Zealand for a lifestyle that prioritizes the 'great outdoors.' Whether you are seeking the global buzz of London or the rugged tranquility of the Southern Alps, both nations offer a high quality of life with very different rhythms.
Vibrant Hubs vs Great Escapes
Life in Britain is defined by history, diverse culture, and a density that makes every weekend feel like a new adventure in a nearby city. Conversely, New Zealand offers a breathable, relaxed pace where 'kiwi ingenuity' and community spirit take precedence over the corporate grind.
Simplifying the Paycheck Puzzle
The UK keeps things streamlined with fewer tax brackets, though the top rates bite harder for high earners once they cross certain thresholds. New Zealand spreads the load across more brackets with a lower top rate, making it feel slightly more gradual as your career progresses and your salary grows.
Safety Nets and Social Perks
In Britain, your National Insurance contributions power a world-famous healthcare system and state pension, ensuring a safety net that is always in the background. New Zealand takes a unique approach with its ACC levy, a comprehensive no-fault insurance scheme that covers personal injuries for everyone, reflecting the country's active, adventurous DNA.
The Hidden Fine Print
British earners need to watch out for the 'taper trap' where personal allowances vanish for high flyers, effectively creating a hidden spike in what you owe. In New Zealand, the system is more straightforward with no regional variations, though you'll want to keep an eye on tax credits that reward those in the middle-income sweet spot.
Detailed tax breakdown
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