As living costs rise across Europe, the question of what constitutes a “good salary” has become increasingly relevant for those looking to live and work in the EU.
Euronews Business has revealed that Denmark currently offers the best pay across European Union countries, with high salaries and a balanced cost of living.
Denmark has emerged as the best-paying EU country, with professionals earning gross monthly salaries ranging between €5,400 and €8,180 (£4,660 – £7,060).
The country offers high wages, particularly in Copenhagen, where skilled workers and mid-career professionals can earn substantial incomes.
Although Denmark has a high cost of living, especially in its capital, it is offset by strong social services, free healthcare, and education, making it an attractive destination for professionals across various sectors.
Germany also ranks highly, with mid-career professionals in Berlin earning between €40,000 and €60,000 gross annually (£34,520 – £51,780).
According to estimates, a good salary in Germany ranges from €64,000 to €70,000 gross (£55,270 – £60,470), or about €3,300 to €3,600 net per month for single individuals (£2,850 – £3,110).
Berlin, while becoming more expensive, remains more affordable than other major capitals like Paris or London.
Ireland offers competitive pay as well, with a good salary for a comfortable life ranging between €4,100 and €6,000 per month (£3,540 – £5,180).
In Dublin, a growing tech and finance hub, salaries often match those seen in other high-income EU countries.
However, the rising cost of living, particularly housing, can erode purchasing power in the capital.
In Spain, a good monthly salary for a single person is estimated at €2,700 net (£2,330), or €4,000 for someone supporting a family (£3,460).
While these figures are lower than in Northern European countries, the cost of living is also more moderate.
In Madrid, professionals can expect to earn between €35,000 and €55,000 gross annually (£30,190 – £47,420), making it a more affordable option for those seeking a European lifestyle without breaking the bank.
France presents a mixed picture, with professionals in Paris typically needing around €3,400 per month (£2,940) to maintain a comfortable lifestyle due to the high cost of living in the capital.
A good salary in France is considered to be around €3,200 per month (£2,770) for a single person, but this number can rise significantly for families or those living in more expensive cities like Paris.
In Southern Europe, salaries tend to be lower, but so are living costs.
In Rome, for instance, a good salary for mid-career professionals ranges between €3,750 and €5,690 gross per month (£3,240 – £4,910), while in Athens, a good monthly wage falls between €2,250 and €3,410 (£1,940 – £2,940).
Both cities offer more affordable living compared to Northern Europe, but wages reflect the economic conditions of these countries.
