Germany is known for its economic stability and high wages. Today, we will discuss the average salary in Germany, which industries offer the greatest financial stability, and how salaries vary across different federal states. Please note that all amounts are current as of the publication date and may change over time.
What Is the Average Salary in 2024?
As of January 1, 2024, Germany has set a new minimum hourly wage of €12.41 per hour. With a standard workweek (eight hours a day and twenty-two working days a month), the minimum salary amounts to €2,184.16 per month.
However, most German workers earn significantly more. According to official data, the average salary in Germany for full-time employees is €4,105 gross per month. When considering all workers, including part-time employees, government sources cite an average figure of €3,092 gross. However, the overall average does not accurately reflect the real salary dynamics due to significant differences in income among various professions and industries. Therefore, it is essential to compare the average income based on profession, industry, place of residence, and training program. This is what we will focus on today.
A gross salary is the amount before income tax. Germany uses a progressive tax scale: the higher your annual salary, the higher the tax rate. In some cases, the income tax can reach 40-45%. However, most workers can expect a tax rate of 15% to 20% for salaries up to €40,000 per year.
Additionally, it is important to understand that despite progressive policies, there is still a gender pay gap in Germany. On average, men's salaries are slightly higher than those of their female colleagues. Men earn an average of around €46,000 gross per year, while women earn only €40,000.