>and while tech wages are significantly lower in Germany
Yes, they are, but also: cost of living is much, much lower in Germany, so a lower income doesn't mean a lower standard of living. You can rent a 1 bed apartment for ~ €750 in most large cities, not ~$1800 like in America. That is 12k you won't spend every year. Health insurance is another 12k you won't spend. Healthy food is cheaper than fast food, another 20k you won't spend. Suddenly 50k less isn't bad