Country A
Italy
Top income tax: 43%
Corporate: 24%
VAT: 22% · CGT: 26%
VS
Country B
Austria
Top income tax: 55%
Corporate: 23%
VAT: 20% · CGT: 27.5%
Full Tax Rate Comparison
| Tax Type | Italy | Austria | Lower Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top Income Tax | 43% | 55% | Italy |
| Bottom Income Tax | 23% | 0% | Austria |
| Corporate Tax | 24% | 23% | Austria |
| VAT / GST | 22% | 20% | Austria |
| Capital Gains Tax | 26% | 27.5% | Italy |
| Social Security (Emp) | 9.5% | 18.1% | Italy |
| Dividend Tax | 26% | 27.5% | Italy |
| Tax Treaties | 96 | 90 | Italy |
Take-Home Pay Estimate
Illustration — €100,000 gross annual income
Italy Take-Home
€62,560
Austria Take-Home
€46,130
Annual Difference
+€16,430
Verdict
Overall Tax Burden
Italy has a lower overall tax burden
Italy scores lower on combined tax burden (34 vs 40). Top income tax: 43% vs 55% in Austria. Corporate: 24% vs 23%. For high earners and entrepreneurs, Italy can offer meaningful tax savings.
Tax System: Territorial vs Worldwide
| Factor | Italy | Austria |
|---|---|---|
| Territorial Taxation | No | No |
| Digital Nomad Visa | Yes | No |
| Wealth Tax | No | No |
| CFC Rules | Yes | Yes |
Special Regimes Available
| Country | Regime | Rate / Benefit | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| No major special regimes for these two countries | |||
Frequently Asked Questions
Which country has lower taxes: Italy or Austria?
Italy has a top income tax rate of 43% and corporate tax of 24%. Austria has 55% and 23% respectively. On €100k gross, estimated take-home is €62,560 in Italy vs €46,130 in Austria. Actual liability varies with deductions, residency rules, and individual circumstances.
Is Italy or Austria better for expats and digital nomads?
Italy uses a worldwide tax system. Austria uses a worldwide tax system. The best choice depends on income type, desired residency duration, and lifestyle preferences.
What is the corporate tax difference between Italy and Austria?
The statutory corporate tax rate is 24% in Italy and 23% in Austria. Effective rates can differ significantly due to deductions, loss carry-forwards, and R&D credits. Both countries may offer reduced rates or special regimes for SMEs or qualifying businesses.
Disclaimer: Rates shown are statutory rates for 2026. Effective rates vary with deductions and individual circumstances. Not tax advice.