On a $100,000 salary, you'd take home $73,812 in United States (California) versus $72,211 in United Kingdom (London) — a difference of $1,601/year ($133/month).
Tax Breakdown Comparison
United States
2025 tax year
Take-Home Pay
$73,812
$6,151/mo
Effective Rate
26.2%
of gross
United Kingdom
2025-26 tax year
Take-Home Pay
$72,211
$6,018/mo
Effective Rate
27.8%
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
Chasing the Atlantic Dream
From ambitious techies flocking to the Golden State to creative professionals seeking the historic charm of London, the US-UK corridor is a highway for dreamers. Whether you are after the high-octane hustle of American innovation or the sophisticated, global connectivity of Britain, both nations offer a magnetic pull for those looking to level up their careers.
Vibe Check: Sunshine vs. Pubs
Life in California is all about that outdoor, health-conscious lifestyle where the scale of everything—from the cars to the coastline—is massive. In contrast, the UK offers a more compact, walkable way of life centered around cozy neighborhood pubs and a deep sense of history that makes even a trip to the local market feel like a walk through time.
The Tax Bracket Tango
The American system is a complex puzzle with seven federal layers plus state taxes, whereas the UK keeps things simple with just three main tiers. While the US offers a generous standard deduction that lets you keep more of your early earnings, the UK's 'personal allowance' system is brilliant until you hit the high-earner trap where your tax-free buffer starts to vanish.
Hidden Perks and Safety Nets
In the UK, your National Insurance contributions give you access to the NHS, meaning you never have to worry about a medical bill after a weekend mishap. Meanwhile, your US contributions focus heavily on retirement security, leaving you to navigate a private healthcare landscape that offers world-class speed and technology if you have the right employer-backed plan.
The Ultimate Bottom Line
High flyers often find the US more lucrative due to lower top-tier federal rates and higher salary ceilings, despite the added layer of state-level taxes. However, for those who value simplicity and a robust social safety net without the paperwork headache, the UK’s streamlined system provides a peace of mind that is hard to put a price on.
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