Germany vs Spain taxes: what differs
Germany and Spain tax salaries differently. In Germany, the payslip deductions are Income tax, Pension insurance, Unemployment insurance, Health insurance and Long-term care. In Spain, they're Social security and Income tax (IRPF). On this salary, Germany's effective tax rate works out to about 42.4% versus 34.8% in Spain — use the calculator to compare any salary or add more countries.
Germany vs Spain at different salaries
| Gross (EUR) | Take-home Germany | Take-home Spain | Keeps more |
|---|---|---|---|
| €44,000 | €28,274 (35.7%) | €32,499 (26.1%) | Spain |
| €67,000 | €39,565 (40.9%) | €45,962 (31.4%) | Spain |
| €89,000 | €51,295 (42.4%) | €58,062 (34.8%) | Spain |
| €130,000 | €74,489 (42.7%) | €80,612 (38.0%) | Spain |
| €180,000 | €103,489 (42.5%) | €108,112 (39.9%) | Spain |
Single-resident estimates. Spain is taxed in its own currency, then converted into EUR at exchange rates as of 2 October 2026; effective tax rate in brackets is currency-independent.
Germany vs Spain — FAQ
Do you pay more tax in Germany or Spain?
On a €89,000-equivalent salary, Germany has the higher effective tax rate (42.4% vs 34.8%), so you keep more of your pay in Spain. The gap shifts with income — try your own salary in the calculator above.
Is take-home pay higher in Germany or Spain?
Spain — about €58,062 versus €51,295 on a €89,000 salary (both shown in EUR).
What is deducted from salary in Germany and Spain?
Germany: Income tax, Pension insurance, Unemployment insurance, Health insurance and Long-term care. Spain: Social security and Income tax (IRPF).