Both Italy and Germany sit in Europe, but their tax structures take different paths. On a 65.000 € gross, the effective tax burden in Germany is roughly 1.5% higher than in Italy — driven by differences in INPS vs Sozialversicherung, bracket structure, and personal allowance.
Same nominal gross applied to both tax systems. Currencies aren't FX-converted — compare structures, not purchasing power.
Italy uses a three-band IRPEF income tax (23/35/43%) plus regional and municipal surcharges of 1–3.3%. The 9.49% INPS social contribution funds pension and unemployment. The regime impatriati offers returning workers a 50–70% tax base reduction for several years.
Germany combines a continuously progressive Einkommensteuer with employee social contributions of about 20% (pension, health, long-term care, unemployment) capped at the contribution ceiling. A solidarity surcharge and church tax can apply. Take-home is typically 55–65% of gross for middle-income earners.
Pre-calculated breakdowns at common pay levels in Italy — open either side for the full page.
Last updated: 2026. Estimates only — see the disclaimer above.