Malta vs South Africa: tax rates and take-home pay (2026)
On €88,000 (about ZAR 1,640,982) you take home €63,692 in Malta and ZAR 1,087,761 in South Africa (about €58,333) — Malta leaves you 9% more.
You keep more in South Africa up to about €22,000, and more in Malta above that.
Take-home pay at eight salary levels
| Salary (USD) | Malta | South Africa | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| $25K | €17,700 | ZAR 337,528 | South Africa +2% |
| $40K | €26,742 | ZAR 498,672 | About the same |
| $60K | €40,242 | ZAR 702,690 | Malta +7% |
| $80K | €51,992 | ZAR 889,725 | Malta +9% |
| $100K | €63,692 | ZAR 1,087,761 | Malta +9% |
| $150K | €90,992 | ZAR 1,528,024 | Malta +11% |
| $200K | €123,492 | ZAR 2,040,831 | Malta +13% |
| $300K | €175,492 | ZAR 2,861,322 | Malta +14% |
Cost of living
Compare the cost of living in St. Julians (San Ġiljan) and Cape TownMore comparisons
More for Malta
More for South Africa
Frequently asked questions
Is tax higher in Malta or South Africa?
At €88,000, Malta takes less of your pay: you keep 72% there, against 66% in South Africa.
What is the top tax rate in Malta and South Africa?
The top income tax rate is 35% in Malta and 45% in South Africa.
How much do I take home on €88,000 in each?
On €88,000 (about ZAR 1,640,982) you take home €63,692 in Malta and ZAR 1,087,761 in South Africa (about €58,333).
2026 rules checked against taxsummaries.pwc.com. Single person, employee, no other income. Not tax advice. Change the details