Thinking about relocating to Germany or France? This comprehensive Germany vs France comparison covers everything expats and international workers need to know: average salaries, tax rates, work-life balance, annual leave policies, maternity and paternity leave, and cost of living considerations. Whether you're a software developer, engineer, or professional considering a move to Europe, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Average Salary Difference
+21.5%
Germany pays more
Germany
52.000 €
avg. salary
France
42 800 €
avg. salary
Germany vs France Salary Comparison
Average salary, median salary, minimum wage and top earners
Average Salary
52.000 €42 800 €Median Salary
44.000 €36 000 €Minimum Wage
24.960 €21 876 €Top 10%
80.000 €70 000 €Work-Life Balance: Germany vs France
Annual leave, working hours, maternity & paternity leave comparison
Visual Comparison
Work Week
35-40 hours
35 hours (legal limit)
Annual Leave
20-30 days (minimum 20 days)
25 days minimum (5 weeks)
Public Holidays
9 days
11 days
Sick Leave
6 weeks at 100%, then 70% (up to 78 weeks)
Unlimited (50% from Social Security + employer top-up)
Maternity Leave
14 weeks at 100% salary
16 weeks at 100% salary
Paternity Leave
Up to 14 months parental leave (shared)
28 days at 100% salary
Germany vs France for Expats: Pros & Cons
Advantages and challenges for international workers in each country
Germany
Why Work in Germany
Strong Job Security
German labor laws provide excellent protection against unfair dismissal and strong worker rights.
Excellent Engineering & Tech Sector
World-renowned industries offering cutting-edge work in automotive, manufacturing, and technology.
Quality Healthcare
Universal healthcare system with high-quality medical care and reasonable costs.
Central European Hub
Excellent transportation networks and central location for European travel and business.
Strong Economy
Stable economy with low unemployment and consistent growth opportunities.
Challenges of Living in Germany
High Tax Burden
Combined income tax and social security contributions can reach 42-45% of gross salary.
Language Barrier
Unlike the Netherlands, German is often required in the workplace, especially outside major cities.
Bureaucracy
German bureaucracy can be challenging, with many processes requiring in-person visits and German documents.
Church Tax
Members of certain religions pay an additional 8-9% church tax on income tax.
Complex Tax System
Six tax classes and numerous deductions make understanding your net salary complicated.
France
Why Work in France
35-Hour Work Week
France has one of the shortest legal work weeks in Europe, promoting excellent work-life balance.
Strong Labor Protections
Extensive worker rights, including protection against unfair dismissal and strong union representation.
Excellent Healthcare
One of the world's best healthcare systems, with most costs covered by social security.
Generous Parental Leave
Comprehensive maternity, paternity, and parental leave policies supporting families.
Quality of Life
Rich culture, excellent food, and a lifestyle that prioritizes enjoyment and personal time.
Challenges of Living in France
High Tax Burden
Combined income tax and social contributions can reach 45% or more of gross salary.
Language Requirement
French is essential for most workplaces; English-only positions are limited mainly to Paris.
Complex Bureaucracy
French administration is notoriously complex and often requires patience and paperwork.
Lower Salaries Than Neighbors
Compared to Germany or Netherlands, French salaries can be lower in similar roles.
Rigid Labor Market
Strong protections can make it harder to find positions as employers are cautious about hiring.
Tax Rates Germany vs France
Income tax, social security, and tax benefits comparison
Germany
- Progressive tax system from 14% to 45%
- Six tax classes based on marital status
- Optional church tax (8-9% of income tax)
- Solidarity surcharge for high earners
- Social security split between employer and employee
France
- Progressive tax system from 0% to 45%
- Family quotient system reduces tax for families
- CSG (9.2%) and CRDS (0.5%) on 98.25% of salary
- PASS (Social Security ceiling) €48,060/year in 2026
- Wealth tax on real estate over €1.3 million (IFI)
Best Cities to Work in Germany and France
Top destinations for tech jobs, expats and international professionals
Germany
France
How to Find Jobs in Germany vs France
Job portals, recruitment agencies, and networking platforms
Germany
LinkedIn for international roles, Xing is Germany's local professional network essential for German-speaking positions.
Major German job portals with extensive listings across all industries and experience levels.
Official government portal with job listings and comprehensive immigration information.
Official job portal with verified positions and support services for job seekers.
German Recruitment Agencies
Agencies like Robert Half, Hays Germany, and Kienbaum help place international professionals.
France
Primary platforms for professional roles. Indeed France has extensive French and international listings.
Popular French platform focused on startups and tech companies with company culture insights.
French Tech Visa Companies
Startups with French Tech Visa label can fast-track hiring of international talent.
Work Visa Options: Germany vs France
Visa types, requirements, and duration for non-EU workers
Germany Work Visas
EU Blue Card
For highly qualified workers. Germany issues most EU Blue Cards in Europe.
Skilled Worker Visa (Fachkräftevisum)
For qualified professionals with vocational training or university degree.
Job Seeker Visa
Allows qualified professionals to enter Germany and search for work.
IT Specialist Visa
Special visa for IT professionals without formal degrees but with practical experience.
France Work Visas
Talent Passport (Passeport Talent)
Multi-year visa for highly skilled workers, researchers, artists, and entrepreneurs.
French Tech Visa
Fast-track visa for employees of French Tech-labeled startups.
EU Blue Card France
For highly qualified workers meeting EU-wide standards.
Temporary Worker Visa (Salarié)
For workers with job offers not meeting Talent Passport requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions: Germany vs France
Common questions about working in these countries
What is the average salary in Germany vs France?
The average salary in Germany is 52.000 € per year, while in France it is 42 800 € per year. This represents a 21.5% difference.
Which country has better work-life balance: Germany or France?
Germany offers 20-30 days (minimum 20 days) annual leave and 9 public holidays with a 35-40 hours work week. France offers 25 days minimum (5 weeks) annual leave and 11 public holidays with a 35 hours (legal limit) work week.
How does parental leave compare between Germany and France?
In Germany, maternity leave is 14 weeks at 100% salary and paternity leave is Up to 14 months parental leave (shared). In France, maternity leave is 16 weeks at 100% salary and paternity leave is 28 days at 100% salary.
Is it better to work in Germany or France as an expat?
Both are excellent choices for expats. Germany offers: Strong Job Security, Excellent Engineering & Tech Sector. France offers: 35-Hour Work Week, Strong Labor Protections. Consider your priorities like salary, language requirements, and lifestyle preferences.
What are the main tax differences between Germany and France?
Germany: Progressive tax system from 14% to 45%. France: Progressive tax system from 0% to 45%. Both countries have different tax benefits and deductions that can significantly impact your take-home pay.
Calculate Your Take-Home Pay in Germany or France
Use our free salary calculators to see exactly how much you'll earn after taxes in each country.
