Emigrating from Germany to United States: tax and cost of living

Compared by dimension

On an average Germany income of €50,400 gross per year, you keep €39,747 net in United States: a difference of €7,502 per year compared with Germany.

• Tax: on this income United States lands at an effective rate of about 21%, against 36% in Germany.
• Passport and mobility: from United States you travel visa-free to 186 countries.
• Residency: on our accessibility scale United States scores 87 out of 100 for obtaining residency.
• Living environment: banking, internet, safety and healthcare together give United States a living-environment score of 68 out of 100.

The tax regime in United States (Amerika)

The US taxes citizens worldwide even after emigration. The federal top rate is 37% (2025); combined with state tax it can reach about 54% in California. FATCA requires foreign banks to report US account holders.

Residency and visas in United States

For departing US citizens: renouncing citizenship costs $2,350 in consular fees and requires full tax compliance. The exit tax applies to those with net worth above $2 million or average annual net income tax above $201,000 (2025 indexed threshold).

• EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program · €800,000 · 2 years to permanent residency
• H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa · 6 years to permanent residency
• O-1 Extraordinary Ability Visa · 3 years to permanent residency

Frequently asked questions

What is the financial difference between Germany and United States?

On an average Germany income it differs by roughly €7,502 net per year. Your own figure depends on your income and situation; calculate it with the free freedom check.

Is this tax advice?

No. Libaros compares on the basis of primary government sources and provides information. For personal decisions, consult a qualified adviser.

What sources is this based on?

The Freedom Score uses the OECD Tax Database, IATA Timatic, the Henley Visa Index and Eurostat, with direct links to primary government sources.