Top 10 European countries with the highest average salaries

European countries offer different pay levels, with earnings shaped by industries, labour policies and the cost of living. For workers considering a move abroad, average salaries can help identify destinations where employment may provide greater earning opportunities.

Luxembourg tops this ranking, with an average gross annual salary of €72,000, followed by Switzerland at €68,000 and Denmark at €62,000. Ireland, the Netherlands and Germany also feature among the leading destinations, reflecting the role of finance, technology, manufacturing and other sectors in their labour markets.

The figures below provide a comparison, based on the supplied salary estimates attributed to Eurostat and national statistics offices. Gross salary refers to earnings before income tax and other deductions.

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Here are the top 10 European countries with the highest average salaries according to Euro salary.

1. Luxembourg: €72,000 per year

Luxembourg ranks first, with an average gross annual salary of €72,000. Its financial services industry, European Union institutions and international businesses support employment across several professional fields.

The country’s location between Belgium, France and Germany also attracts workers who live across its borders and commute for work. For people seeking employment in banking, investment, legal services and financial technology, Luxembourg offers access to a labour market with international connections.

However, workers need to consider housing costs, taxes and other living expenses when assessing how much of their earnings they can retain.

2. Switzerland: €68,000 per year

Switzerland ranks second, with an average gross annual salary of €68,000. Although it is not a member of the European Union, its links with European markets make it a destination for workers and businesses.

Banking, pharmaceuticals, engineering and technology contribute to employment. The country also attracts professionals in research, healthcare and financial services.

Salary comparisons should account for the cost of accommodation, health insurance, transport and everyday goods. High earnings do not automatically translate into greater disposable income.

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3. Denmark: €62,000 per year

Denmark takes third place, with an average gross annual salary of €62,000. Its labour market operates within a system in which trade unions and employers negotiate wages and employment conditions across many sectors.

The economy includes pharmaceuticals, shipping, renewable energy, information technology and manufacturing. These industries provide opportunities for workers with technical, professional and management skills.

Anyone considering Denmark should also examine its tax system and living costs, as both affect the amount available for savings and household spending.

4. Ireland: €58,000 per year

Ireland ranks fourth, with an average gross annual salary of €58,000. Technology, pharmaceuticals, financial services and international business contribute to its labour market.

Several multinational companies operate European or international offices in the country, creating jobs in software development, engineering, finance, data analysis and business operations.

For foreign workers, Ireland’s English-speaking environment can make the transition easier. However, accommodation costs, particularly in Dublin, remain an important consideration when comparing salaries with other destinations.

5. Netherlands: €56,000 per year

The Netherlands records an average gross annual salary of €56,000, placing it fifth. Its economy includes technology, logistics, finance, agriculture and international trade.

Amsterdam is a centre for financial services and technology, while Rotterdam’s port supports jobs across shipping, transport and supply chains. Other cities also provide opportunities in research, manufacturing and business services.

The country’s transport links and international business environment attract workers from within and outside Europe. Prospective employees should compare salaries with rent, taxation and commuting costs.

6. Germany: €54,000 per year

Germany ranks sixth, with an average gross annual salary of €54,000. As Europe’s largest economy, it has employment opportunities across automotive production, engineering, chemicals, healthcare, technology and manufacturing.

Its industrial base supports demand for engineers, technicians, researchers and skilled tradespeople. The country also has opportunities in software development, financial services and business management.

Workers may find different salary levels across regions and industries. Comparing job offers should therefore involve the specific city, occupation and employment conditions rather than the national average alone.

7. Belgium: €52,000 per year

Belgium ranks seventh, with an average gross annual salary of €52,000. Its economy includes pharmaceuticals, chemicals, logistics, manufacturing and professional services.

Brussels hosts European Union institutions and international organisations, supporting employment in administration, policy, consulting and related fields. The pharmaceutical and chemical industries also contribute to demand for scientific and technical expertise.

Belgium’s location at the centre of Western Europe provides access to several neighbouring labour markets. Workers should consider taxation and housing costs when assessing the value of a salary offer.

8. Austria: €51,000 per year

Austria takes eighth place, with an average gross annual salary of €51,000. Manufacturing, engineering, tourism, finance and business services contribute to its economy.

Vienna serves as a centre for administration, international organisations and professional services. Other regions support manufacturing and industrial production.

The country’s position in Central Europe also connects businesses to markets across the continent. For prospective workers, language requirements, housing costs and the availability of jobs in their field remain important factors.

9. Finland: €49,000 per year

Finland ranks ninth, with an average gross annual salary of €49,000. Its economy includes technology, telecommunications, engineering, forestry, healthcare and education.

Demand for expertise in software, research, manufacturing and digital services creates opportunities for qualified professionals. Finland also places emphasis on workplace arrangements and public services, factors that may influence decisions about where to live and work.

However, workers need to assess taxation, housing and language requirements before relocating. Opportunities can also vary by occupation and region.

10. Sweden: €48,000 per year

Sweden completes the ranking, with an average gross annual salary of €48,000. Its economy includes engineering, telecommunications, manufacturing, technology, healthcare and financial services.

The country has a record of industrial production and technology development, while its labour market includes employers ranging from manufacturing firms to software companies.

Workers considering Sweden should examine the availability of jobs in their profession, the cost of housing and the requirements for working in the country. Gross salary alone cannot determine whether a move will improve their finances.