Salaries in Switzerland are influenced by a range of factors, including the type of job, level of experience, working hours, the region (canton), and language proficiency. While it's important not to rely solely on averages when evaluating earning potential, having a general overview can help form realistic expectations.
The average gross hourly wage in Switzerland typically falls between CHF 30–40 (approximately EUR 31–41). As for monthly earnings, entry-level salaries usually begin at around CHF 3,700 gross (roughly EUR 3,749).
Here are some examples of average gross monthly wages across selected industries:
| Industry | Average Gross Monthly Salary |
|---|---|
| Construction | CHF 5,900 (EUR 5,978) |
| Manufacturing | CHF 4,500 (EUR 4,560) |
| Agriculture | CHF 3,700 (EUR 3,749) |
| Hospitality & Gastronomy | CHF 4,900 (EUR 4,965) |
| Welding | CHF 6,100 (EUR 6,181) |
An Important Note About Equality
Interestingly, despite some societal reservations toward foreign workers, Swiss labor law ensures equal pay for equal work. This means that foreigners legally employed in Switzerland earn the same wages as Swiss nationals in comparable positions. To uphold this principle, the government conducts regular wage audits.
Switzerland also ranks among the Top 20 countries with the lowest gender pay gap, reinforcing its commitment to fair labor practices across both gender and nationality lines.