Salaries in Germany: How Much Does a Foreigner Earn on Average?
Working in Germany is an increasingly common goal for talented foreigners seeking stability and long-term opportunities. But one of the most frequent—and valid—questions is: how much can an immigrant realistically earn? Between the cost of living, taxes, and the process of validating qualifications, having a clear picture of salaries is essential.
This guide gives you a full breakdown of what to expect in 2025.
Average Salary in Germany (2025): Gross vs. Net
- The median gross annual salary is around €51,876 (~€4,323 per month).
- After taxes and social contributions, the average net salary is roughly €30,000–€32,000 annually.
- Another recent estimate places the gross average at €50,250 annually, aligning closely with official data.
👉 For context: Foreign workers earn about €3,034 gross per month, compared to locals who average €3,945.
Why the Gap Between Gross and Net?
Germany has a progressive tax system and high social contributions:
- Income tax.
- Health insurance.
- Pension contributions.
- Unemployment insurance.
In total, deductions can reach 35–40% of gross pay.
Example: if you earn €3,000 gross per month, you’ll take home about €1,950 net.
Where Are the Best Salaries in Germany?
Salaries vary widely by region:
- Southern states (Hesse, Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria): €46,000–€47,500 median annual gross.
- Eastern states (e.g., Brandenburg): closer to €36,000 annual gross.
- Berlin: average of around €43,179 annually.
How Education Impacts Salary
| Education Level | Average Monthly Gross |
|---|---|
| Doctorate | €8,687 |
| Master’s degree | €6,188 |
| Specialized technical degree (Meister) | €4,826 |
| Bachelor’s degree | €4,551 |
| Vocational training, no formal studies | €3,521 |
| No professional training | €2,817 |
Highest-Paying Sectors in Germany
- Banking & Finance: €71,088 gross annually.
- Law: €68,640.
- Science & Research: €65,562.
- Technology/IT: €51,934.
- Healthcare/Pharmaceuticals: €55,139.
What Is Considered a Good Salary in Germany?
- €64,000–€70,000 gross annually is considered a “good” salary.
- This translates to €3,300–€3,600 net per month, which supports a comfortable lifestyle in most German cities.
- €80,000 gross is high.
- €110,000+ is exceptional and places you in the top 1–2% of earners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do foreigners earn less than locals?
Yes, foreigners average €3,034 gross per month, compared to €3,945 for locals.
What’s the minimum wage in Germany?
As of January 2025, it’s €12.82 per hour gross, or about €2,222 monthly for full-time work.
Which sectors pay immigrants the most?
Technology, engineering, healthcare, and finance—similar to local workers.
Does location matter?
Yes—southern cities like Munich and Frankfurt offer higher salaries, but also higher living costs.
Salaries in Germany are competitive and strongly influenced by education, sector, and location. A foreigner can expect to start at around €3,000 gross per month, but with higher qualifications and work in in-demand sectors, earnings can reach €50,000–€70,000 annually or more.
If you’re planning to work in Germany, evaluate your field, target city, and qualifications carefully. With the right information and preparation, you’ll be in a strong position to negotiate effectively and choose strategically.