What is the average salary in Austria?

If you speak German, the job markets in Austria, Germany and Switzerland are open to you. But before you decide, it is important to check whether you need a work permit. While EU citizens can work in Germany and Austria without a special permit, different rules apply in Switzerland. Switzerland has its own system for work permits and often requires employers to look for suitable Swiss candidates first.

There are also big differences between these countries in terms of the cost of living and taxes. In Switzerland, salaries are usually the highest, but rents and general costs are also quite steep. In Germany and Austria, salaries are at a similar level, although Germany is ahead in some sectors when it comes to higher average salaries. It's definitely worth taking a closer look! This article gives you an overview of the average salary in Austria, differences between different industries and cities, as well as a comparison with Germany and Switzerland.

The average salary in Austria

According to Statistics Austria, the average gross annual salary in Austria is around 52,000 euros. This means a gross monthly salary of around 4,333 euros. However, income varies greatly depending on the industry, professional experience and location.

If you compare the salary levels with Germany (more on this here: Average salary in Germany), the average salary in Germany is slightly higher, at around 56,000 euros gross per year.

In Switzerland, wages are even higher in many professions, but the cost of living is also correspondingly more expensive there.

In which sectors is the average salary highest in Austria?

• Depending on the industry, income can vary quite a bit. Here are a few examples of gross annual salaries in Austria - to give you an idea of what is financially possible:IT & Telecommunications: approx. 65,000 euros
• Finance & insurance: approx. 63,000 euros
• Industry & mechanical engineering: approx. 55,000 euros
• Healthcare & nursing: approx. 47,000 euros
• Trade & construction: approx. 40,000 euros
• Gastronomy & tourism: approx. 32,000 euros

Jobs with future prospects can be found here: Careers with a future.

Salary in Vienna in comparison

Income differs not only between sectors, but also between cities. According to Numbeo.com, the average net salaries in Austria's largest cities are:

• Vienna: approx. 2,800 euros/month
• Graz: approx. 2,500 euros/month
• Innsbruck: approx. 2,450 euros/month
• Linz: approx. 2,600 euros/month
• Salzburg: approx. 2,550 euros/month
• Munich (Germany): approx. 3,300 euros/month

However, the cost of living must also be taken into account. The average rent for a one-room apartment in a central location is:

• Vienna: approx. 1,000 euros/month
• Graz: approx. 800 Euro/month
• Innsbruck: approx. 900 euros/month
• Linz: approx. 850 euros/month
• Salzburg: approx. 950 euros/month
• Munich (Germany): approx. 1,500 euros/month

While wages in Munich are often higher than in Vienna, the cost of living there is also around 30-40% higher. The picture is similar for other Austrian cities. If you are comparing job offers in different cities, you should not only look at the salary. It's better to also check rents and the general cost of living! Platforms such as Numbeo.com help you to get a realistic overview. That way you know exactly where your salary is worth the most!

Our tips for finding a job in Austria

A higher salary isn't everything - a smart job search can help you not only get better pay, but also better working conditions. Here are some tips:

• Check collective agreements: In many sectors, there are collective agreements that regulate minimum wages and working conditions. You can find out more here: Collective agreements in Germany (the situation in Austria is similar).
• Conduct salary negotiations: Find out about standard industry wages before job interviews so that you can negotiate your salary more effectively.
• Use networks: Especially in Austria, contacts are often crucial to finding good jobs. Vitamin B is always important.

Find the right job with WorkerHero

Whether in Austria, Germany or Switzerland - if you are looking for a job in the skilled trades, in industry or in another future-proof field, WorkerHero is the ideal platform for you. On WorkerHero, you will not only find current job offers, but also lots of useful tips on finding a job. Especially if you do not yet speak perfect German, our platform can help you find a suitable position. 

Check back regularly and start your career in the DACH region with WorkerHero!