“McJob” USA vs. GERMANY: Hourly Wages, Taxes, Contributions & More of Minimum Wage Workers

This video offers a detailed comparison of wages, taxes, social contributions, and living standards between minimum-wage McDonald’s workers and their families in the United States and Germany. The analysis begins by contextualizing McDonald’s as a global employer with a franchise business model, highlighting its presence in both countries and the nuances in wages due to local economic factors. It explores entry-level crew member wages and progresses to family scenarios where one partner is a shift manager and the other a general manager. Key differences emerge not only in gross earnings but also in benefits such as paid time off, healthcare, unemployment insurance, and childcare costs.

The video carefully accounts for taxes, social contributions, and mandatory benefits that influence net income and overall quality of life. While U.S. McDonald’s workers may earn slightly higher gross wages in some states, German workers benefit from comprehensive social safety nets including universal healthcare, paid holidays, and stronger unemployment insurance. Childcare costs and education expenses are also factored in, revealing significantly lower burdens for German families compared to their American counterparts.

Ultimately, the video argues that evaluating wages without considering social benefits and living costs provides an incomplete picture. Although Americans may take home more cash, Germans enjoy greater financial security and peace of mind due to the social market economy. The video concludes by teasing an upcoming discussion on housing and food insecurity, which are critical to understanding the true living standards of minimum-wage workers.