United States (North America) and Mexico (Latin America) operate very different payroll systems, which makes a direct salary comparison interesting. On a $90,000 gross, the effective tax burden in United States is roughly 15.7% higher than in Mexico — driven by differences in FICA vs IMSS, bracket structure, and personal allowance.
Same nominal gross applied to both tax systems. Currencies aren't FX-converted — compare structures, not purchasing power.
The US uses a seven-bracket federal income tax on top of a 7.65% FICA payroll tax (Social Security + Medicare). State income taxes — ranging from 0% in places like Texas and Florida to over 13% in California — are not included in this estimate. Most workers also see additional deductions for 401(k), health insurance, and HSA contributions.
Mexico's ISR income tax uses an 11-band sliding scale with a top rate of 35%. Employee IMSS social contributions are modest (~3%); the employer covers the lion's share. A subsidio para el empleo helps low earners. State payroll taxes are charged to the employer, not the worker.
Pre-calculated breakdowns at common pay levels in United States — open either side for the full page.
Last updated: 2026. Estimates only — see the disclaimer above.