That is still extremely high depending on where you are coming from. The US also uses a marginal tax system and the highest bracket is 39.6% and starts at ~$425k (varies based on how you are filing). ~$38-90k bracket is 25%.
You have to add in state tax if you comparing against the US. (Not all states have an income tax, but California does have one)
And 15% federal payroll taxes
You don't pay any tax on the first 11500 either.
So on 44999 You'd be paying 20% of (44999 - 11500) so 6700 on 44999 (effective rate been 14.8%).
exactly... its not that bad! includes free healthcare!
and in northern ireland, free prescriptions!