🇺🇸 United States

Tax: Progressive (10–37%)

Cost of living index: 1.08 (UK = 1.00)

United States Tax & Cost of Living Overview

United States uses a progressive (10–37%) tax system. The local currency is USD ($). Compared to the UK baseline (1.00), United States has a cost-of-living index of 1.08, an average rent index of 1.12, and a purchasing-power index of 1.08. These figures are updated as of 2025-04-01 and feed directly into every salary comparison on this site.

Sample Tax Calculations

Here is what the United States tax system produces at a few common salary levels:

$30,000 gross → estimated tax of $6,000, leaving net of $24,000.
$50,000 gross → estimated tax of $10,000, leaving net of $40,000.
$80,000 gross → estimated tax of $19,200, leaving net of $60,800.

Compare United States With Other Countries

United States vs United Kingdom — full salary, tax and living-cost comparison.
United States vs Dubai, UAE — full salary, tax and living-cost comparison.
United States vs Canada — full salary, tax and living-cost comparison.
United States vs Australia — full salary, tax and living-cost comparison.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the tax system like in United States?

United States uses a progressive (10–37%) structure. Use our calculator for a personalised estimate at your specific salary.

Is United States expensive to live in?

With a cost-of-living index of 1.08 versus the UK baseline of 1.00, United States is generally more expensive on average. Costs vary significantly by city and lifestyle.

How does United States compare for expats?

United States is a popular destination for international professionals. Compare your specific salary against other countries using our calculator and country-vs-country pages above.