Compare salaries, taxes, work conditions, and quality of life between Germany and Netherlands
Thinking about relocating to Germany or Netherlands? This comprehensive Germany vs Netherlands 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
-7.1%
Netherlands pays more
Germany
52.000 €
avg. salary
Netherlands
€ 56.000
avg. salary
Germany vs Netherlands Salary Comparison
Average salary, median salary, minimum wage and top earners
Average Salary
52.000 €€ 56.000Median Salary
44.000 €€ 42.000Minimum Wage
24.960 €€ 25.272Top 10%
80.000 €€ 85.000Work-Life Balance: Germany vs Netherlands
Annual leave, working hours, maternity & paternity leave comparison
Visual Comparison
Work Week
35-40 hours
36-40 hours
Annual Leave
20-30 days (minimum 20 days)
20-25 days (minimum 4x weekly hours)
Public Holidays
9 days
8 days
Sick Leave
6 weeks at 100%, then 70% (up to 78 weeks)
2 years at 70-100% salary
Maternity Leave
14 weeks at 100% salary
16 weeks at 100% salary
Paternity Leave
Up to 14 months parental leave (shared)
6 weeks at 70% salary
Germany vs Netherlands 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.
Netherlands
Why Work in Netherlands
High English Proficiency
Over 90% of Dutch people speak English fluently, making it easy to work and live without knowing Dutch.
30% Ruling Tax Benefit
Skilled migrants may qualify for 5 years of 30% tax-free income, significantly boosting take-home pay.
Excellent Work-Life Balance
The Netherlands consistently ranks among the best countries for work-life balance with flexible working arrangements.
Strong Social Security
Comprehensive healthcare, unemployment benefits, and pension systems provide excellent safety nets.
Central European Location
Easy access to other European countries for both business and leisure travel.
Challenges of Living in Netherlands
High Cost of Living
Housing costs, especially in Amsterdam and other major cities, are among the highest in Europe.
Housing Shortage
Finding accommodation can be challenging and competitive, particularly in urban areas.
High Income Tax Rates
Without the 30% ruling, top marginal tax rates can reach 49.5% on higher incomes.
Weather
The climate is often grey and rainy, which can be challenging for those from sunnier regions.
Complex Bureaucracy
Setting up banking, housing, and official registrations can be time-consuming for newcomers.
Tax Rates Germany vs Netherlands
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
Netherlands
- Progressive tax system with rates from 36.97% to 49.5%
- 30% ruling available for skilled migrants
- Generous tax credits (arbeidskorting, algemene heffingskorting)
- Social security contributions included in tax rates
- Pension contributions are tax-deductible
Best Cities to Work in Germany and Netherlands
Top destinations for tech jobs, expats and international professionals
Germany
Netherlands
How to Find Jobs in Germany vs Netherlands
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.
Netherlands
Most popular platforms for professional roles. Many Dutch companies post English-language positions.
Specialized job board for internationals in the Netherlands with English-speaking positions.
Dutch Recruitment Agencies
Agencies like Randstad, Hays, and Michael Page specialize in placing international candidates.
Company Career Pages
Large Dutch companies (Philips, ASML, ING, Shell) actively recruit internationals directly.
Work Visa Options: Germany vs Netherlands
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.
Netherlands Work Visas
Highly Skilled Migrant Visa (Kennismigrant)
For skilled workers with a job offer from a recognized sponsor. Most common for tech and professional roles.
EU Blue Card
EU-wide work permit for highly qualified non-EU workers with higher salary requirements.
Orientation Year Visa (Zoekjaar)
For recent graduates from Dutch or top-200 universities to find work in the Netherlands.
Intra-Company Transfer
For employees transferred within a multinational company to a Dutch branch.
Frequently Asked Questions: Germany vs Netherlands
Common questions about working in these countries
What is the average salary in Germany vs Netherlands?
The average salary in Germany is 52.000 € per year, while in Netherlands it is € 56.000 per year. This represents a 7.1% difference.
Which country has better work-life balance: Germany or Netherlands?
Germany offers 20-30 days (minimum 20 days) annual leave and 9 public holidays with a 35-40 hours work week. Netherlands offers 20-25 days (minimum 4x weekly hours) annual leave and 8 public holidays with a 36-40 hours work week.
How does parental leave compare between Germany and Netherlands?
In Germany, maternity leave is 14 weeks at 100% salary and paternity leave is Up to 14 months parental leave (shared). In Netherlands, maternity leave is 16 weeks at 100% salary and paternity leave is 6 weeks at 70% salary.
Is it better to work in Germany or Netherlands as an expat?
Both are excellent choices for expats. Germany offers: Strong Job Security, Excellent Engineering & Tech Sector. Netherlands offers: High English Proficiency, 30% Ruling Tax Benefit. Consider your priorities like salary, language requirements, and lifestyle preferences.
What are the main tax differences between Germany and Netherlands?
Germany: Progressive tax system from 14% to 45%. Netherlands: Progressive tax system with rates from 36.97% to 49.5%. Both countries have different tax benefits and deductions that can significantly impact your take-home pay.
Calculate Your Take-Home Pay in Germany or Netherlands
Use our free salary calculators to see exactly how much you'll earn after taxes in each country.
