What is the average salary of foreign workers in Austria?

Austria is one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for foreign workers thanks to its high living standards, stable economy, and central location. Many expats and professionals from around the world move to Austria for job opportunities, but salary expectations vary greatly depending on industry, skill level, and type of residence permit. This guide covers the average salary range for foreign workers in Austria.

General Salary Levels in Austria

The average gross annual salary in Austria is between €40,000 and €50,000, equal to about €3,400–€4,100 per month.
After taxes and deductions, the net take-home salary usually ranges from €2,200 to €2,600 per month.
Salaries are higher in Vienna and western provinces, while rural regions typically pay less.

Salaries for Foreign Workers by Skill Level

Unskilled or entry-level jobs: Foreigners working in agriculture, hospitality, or manual labor often earn €1,200–€2,000 gross per month.
Mid-skilled jobs: Office employees, service workers, and technicians typically earn €2,500–€3,500 gross per month.
Highly skilled professionals: Engineers, doctors, IT specialists, and managers usually earn €50,000–€80,000 per year, with higher salaries for experienced specialists.

Minimum Salary Thresholds for Foreign Worker Permits

Foreign nationals often need to meet minimum salary requirements to qualify for certain Austrian residence permits:

Red-White-Red Card (key workers): Minimum gross salary around €3,200 per month.
EU Blue Card (highly qualified workers): Requires at least €51,500 gross annually (~€3,700 per month).
Executives and top professionals: Salary requirements can exceed €7,700 gross per month.

Industry-Based Salary Insights

IT and Technology: €45,000–€70,000 per year.
Healthcare (Doctors, Nurses): €40,000–€80,000 per year depending on specialization.
Engineering and Manufacturing: €42,000–€65,000 per year.
Hospitality and Tourism: €18,000–€28,000 per year, often seasonal.
Construction and Skilled Trades: €30,000–€45,000 per year.

Overall, foreign workers in Austria can expect salaries ranging from €1,200 per month for entry-level roles up to €8,000 per month or more for senior professionals. On average, most foreign employees earn between €35,000 and €50,000 annually, with higher pay in specialized and high-demand industries.