Highest Take-Home
Costa Rica
2025
21.8%
effective tax rate
Take-home
$78,247
$6,521/mo
Income 11% Social 11%
On a $100,000 salary, you'd take home $78,247 in Costa Rica versus $73,812 in United States.
Costa Rica
$78,247
+$4,435/year
United States
$73,812
That's $370 more per month in Costa Rica
Side-by-side breakdown
United States
2025 · California
26.2%
effective tax rate
Take-home
$73,812
$6,151/mo
Income 13% State 4% Social 9%
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 Pura Vida
While the US remains the ultimate hub for career-driven professionals and tech innovators, Costa Rica has become the sanctuary for digital nomads and 'slow-living' enthusiasts. You’re trading the high-octane American hustle and skyscrapers for a world of rainforest canopies, world-class surf, and a community of expats who prioritize sunset views over board meetings.
The Daily Vibe Check
Life in California offers unmatched convenience and a dizzying array of entertainment, but it comes with a high-stakes rhythm and complex bureaucracy. In contrast, Costa Rica offers a more rustic charm where the 'mañana' attitude reduces stress levels, though you'll swap high-speed freeways for scenic, winding roads and local farmers' markets.
A Tale of Two Brackets
The US system is a multi-layered beast where federal and state taxes (especially in California) stack up quickly, featuring seven different tiers that can bite into high earnings. Costa Rica keeps things strikingly simple with a lower top rate and fewer brackets, making it a much more straightforward landscape for those looking to keep a larger slice of their paycheck.
Where Your Money Goes
In the States, your contributions fund a massive global infrastructure and Social Security, but you'll still need private health insurance to feel truly safe. Costa Ricans and residents contribute to the 'Caja,' a universal healthcare system that reflects the country's peaceful, social-first philosophy, ensuring everyone has a seat at the table regardless of their wealth.
The Final Verdict
If you want to maximize your earning potential and live in the heart of global commerce, the US is your battlefield. However, for the person looking to slash their tax bill and embrace a tropical lifestyle without the headache of regional surcharges, Costa Rica is the clear winner for peace of mind and pocketbook alike.
Detailed tax breakdown
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