How Do Salaries in Poland Compare to Western Europe?

Poland has become an increasingly popular destination for foreign workers and expats over the past decade. With its central location in Europe, growing economy, and expanding job market, it's no surprise that many professionals are considering a move. But before making the leap, a common question arises: How do salaries in Poland compare to those in Western Europe?

This article breaks down salary levels, cost of living, industry comparisons, and what you can realistically expect if you're planning to work in Poland.

Average Salaries in Poland vs Western Europe

As of 2025, the average gross monthly salary in Poland is around 7,800 PLN, which equals approximately €1,800. After taxes, the median take-home pay (net salary) is about 5,500 PLN, or roughly €1,280. Of course, this varies by city, industry, and experience level.

Now compare that to Western European countries. In Germany, for example, the average gross salary is around €4,500 per month, with a median net salary of about €2,900. In France, average gross salaries are around €3,200, with net earnings of approximately €2,300. The Netherlands offers average gross wages of about €4,200 per month, with take-home salaries in the range of €2,800.

Clearly, Poland’s salaries are significantly lower than those in Western Europe. However, that’s only part of the story.

Why Are Polish Salaries Lower?

There are several reasons for the gap in earnings between Poland and its Western neighbors:

• Economic development: Poland is still considered a developing economy within the EU, although it has grown rapidly in the last 20 years.
• Lower labor costs: One of Poland’s advantages is its relatively low labor cost, which makes it attractive for outsourcing and foreign investment.
• Cost of living: Wages are generally tied to local living expenses, which are much lower in Poland than in cities like Paris, Berlin, or Amsterdam.

What About the Cost of Living?

The lower salaries in Poland are balanced by significantly reduced living expenses. For instance, renting a one-bedroom apartment in Warsaw might cost around €700, while the same space in Berlin or Amsterdam would likely cost between €1,200 and €1,400. Utilities, public transport, groceries, and dining out are all cheaper in Poland as well.

This means that while you earn less in absolute terms, your money goes further in day-to-day life. For many professionals, especially remote workers and digital nomads, this makes Poland a cost-effective base.

Which Jobs Pay Well in Poland?

Despite the national average being lower than Western Europe, some industries in Poland offer competitive salaries. These include:

• IT and software development: Skilled developers can earn between €3,000 and €5,000 per month, especially when working for international companies or startups.
• Finance and shared services: Many multinational firms have regional headquarters in Poland, particularly in cities like Kraków and Wrocław, offering salaries of €2,000 to €3,500.
• Engineering and construction: Mechanical, civil, and electrical engineers are in demand and can expect earnings in the range of €2,000 to €4,000.
• Remote international roles: If you’re working remotely for a Western company and earning in euros or dollars, you’ll enjoy a much higher standard of living in Poland.

Tax and Social Contributions

Poland has a progressive tax system, with personal income tax starting at 12% and rising to 32% for higher earners. Social security contributions are deducted from your salary as well, covering health insurance, retirement, and other benefits.

While these rates are comparable to Western Europe, the tax system in Poland can be less generous when it comes to deductions. However, recent reforms have aimed to reduce the tax burden for younger professionals and middle-income workers.

Is It Worth Working in Poland?

That depends on your personal and professional goals. Here are some key takeaways to consider:

• If you're just starting your career, Poland offers valuable experience in a growing economy, with lower competition in some fields and access to the broader EU job market.
• For remote workers or digital nomads, Poland provides an excellent cost-to-quality-of-life ratio. If you're earning a Western salary while living in Poland, you can live very comfortably.
• If you're choosing between job offers, always look at the net salary after taxes, compare that to local expenses, and consider what kind of lifestyle the position would support.

Final Thoughts

Salaries in Poland are undeniably lower than those in Western Europe, but they should not be viewed in isolation. When combined with a lower cost of living, high quality of life, and access to the EU, working in Poland becomes a very appealing option for many professionals.

Whether you’re a software developer, finance expert, teacher, or remote freelancer, Poland offers opportunities — and the ability to live well without Western European price tags.