Thinking about relocating to Greece or France? This comprehensive Greece 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
-48.6%
France pays more
Greece
€22,000
avg. salary
France
€42,800
avg. salary
Greece vs France Salary Comparison
Average salary, median salary, minimum wage and top earners
Average Salary
€22,000€42,800Median Salary
€18,000€36,000Minimum Wage
€12,320€21,876Top 10%
€40,000€70,000Work-Life Balance: Greece vs France
Annual leave, working hours, maternity & paternity leave comparison
Visual Comparison
Work Week
40 hours
35 hours (legal limit)
Annual Leave
20 working days minimum (25 after 10 years)
25 days minimum (5 weeks)
Public Holidays
14 days
11 days
Sick Leave
Up to 6 months at 50% via social security (EFKA)
Unlimited (50% from Social Security + employer top-up)
Maternity Leave
17 weeks at full pay
16 weeks at 100% salary
Paternity Leave
14 days paid
28 days at 100% salary
Greece vs France for Expats: Pros & Cons
Advantages and challenges for international workers in each country
Greece
Why Work in Greece
Low Cost of Living
One of the most affordable countries in the eurozone, especially outside Athens
Mediterranean Lifestyle
Excellent climate, food, culture, and a relaxed quality of life year-round
Tax Incentives
Special regimes for foreign workers: 50% tax exemption for new residents, digital nomad programs
Growing Tech Scene
Athens is becoming a notable startup hub with increasing venture capital investment
EU Membership
Full eurozone member with freedom of movement for EU citizens
Challenges of Living in Greece
Lower Salaries
Wages are below the EU average, though cost of living partially compensates
High Social Security
Combined employee + employer contributions exceed 36% of gross salary
Bureaucracy
Administrative processes can be slow and complex, especially for non-Greek speakers
Limited Industries
Job market is concentrated in tourism, shipping, and services; fewer opportunities in manufacturing
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 Greece vs France
Income tax, social security, and tax benefits comparison
Greece
- Progressive income tax with 6 brackets from 9% to 44% (Law 5246/2025)
- Social Security (EFKA): 13.87% employee + 22.04% employer
- 14 monthly payments (12 regular + Christmas, Easter & vacation bonuses)
- Tax credit of €777 (phased out above €12,000 income)
- Solidarity surcharge abolished since 2023
- Minimum wage: €880/month (2026)
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 Greece and France
Top destinations for tech jobs, expats and international professionals
Greece
France
How to Find Jobs in Greece vs France
Job portals, recruitment agencies, and networking platforms
Greece
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: Greece vs France
Visa types, requirements, and duration for non-EU workers
Greece Work Visas
Digital Nomad Visa
For remote workers employed by foreign companies or freelancing for foreign clients
EU Blue Card
For highly qualified workers from outside the EU
National Work Visa (Type D)
Standard work visa for non-EU nationals with a job offer
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: Greece vs France
Common questions about working in these countries
What is the average salary in Greece vs France?
The average salary in Greece is €22,000 per year, while in France it is €42,800 per year. This represents a 48.6% difference.
Which country has better work-life balance: Greece or France?
Greece offers 20 working days minimum (25 after 10 years) annual leave and 14 public holidays with a 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 Greece and France?
In Greece, maternity leave is 17 weeks at full pay and paternity leave is 14 days paid. 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 Greece or France as an expat?
Both are excellent choices for expats. Greece offers: Low Cost of Living, Mediterranean Lifestyle. 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 Greece and France?
Greece: Progressive income tax with 6 brackets from 9% to 44% (Law 5246/2025). 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 Greece or France
Use our free salary calculators to see exactly how much you'll earn after taxes in each country.
