Compare salaries, taxes, work conditions, and quality of life between Netherlands and Germany
Thinking about relocating to Netherlands or Germany? This comprehensive Netherlands vs Germany 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
+7.7%
Netherlands pays more
Netherlands
€ 56.000
avg. salary
Germany
52.000 €
avg. salary
Netherlands vs Germany Salary Comparison
Average salary, median salary, minimum wage and top earners
Average Salary
€ 56.00052.000 €Median Salary
€ 42.00044.000 €Minimum Wage
€ 25.27224.960 €Top 10%
€ 85.00080.000 €Work-Life Balance: Netherlands vs Germany
Annual leave, working hours, maternity & paternity leave comparison
Visual Comparison
Work Week
36-40 hours
35-40 hours
Annual Leave
20-25 days (minimum 4x weekly hours)
20-30 days (minimum 20 days)
Public Holidays
8 days
9 days
Sick Leave
2 years at 70-100% salary
6 weeks at 100%, then 70% (up to 78 weeks)
Maternity Leave
16 weeks at 100% salary
14 weeks at 100% salary
Paternity Leave
6 weeks at 70% salary
Up to 14 months parental leave (shared)
Netherlands vs Germany for Expats: Pros & Cons
Advantages and challenges for international workers in each country
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.
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.
Tax Rates Netherlands vs Germany
Income tax, social security, and tax benefits comparison
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
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
Best Cities to Work in Netherlands and Germany
Top destinations for tech jobs, expats and international professionals
Netherlands
Germany
How to Find Jobs in Netherlands vs Germany
Job portals, recruitment agencies, and networking platforms
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.
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.
Work Visa Options: Netherlands vs Germany
Visa types, requirements, and duration for non-EU workers
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions: Netherlands vs Germany
Common questions about working in these countries
What is the average salary in Netherlands vs Germany?
The average salary in Netherlands is € 56.000 per year, while in Germany it is 52.000 € per year. This represents a 7.7% difference.
Which country has better work-life balance: Netherlands or Germany?
Netherlands offers 20-25 days (minimum 4x weekly hours) annual leave and 8 public holidays with a 36-40 hours work week. Germany offers 20-30 days (minimum 20 days) annual leave and 9 public holidays with a 35-40 hours work week.
How does parental leave compare between Netherlands and Germany?
In Netherlands, maternity leave is 16 weeks at 100% salary and paternity leave is 6 weeks at 70% salary. In Germany, maternity leave is 14 weeks at 100% salary and paternity leave is Up to 14 months parental leave (shared).
Is it better to work in Netherlands or Germany as an expat?
Both are excellent choices for expats. Netherlands offers: High English Proficiency, 30% Ruling Tax Benefit. Germany offers: Strong Job Security, Excellent Engineering & Tech Sector. Consider your priorities like salary, language requirements, and lifestyle preferences.
What are the main tax differences between Netherlands and Germany?
Netherlands: Progressive tax system with rates from 36.97% to 49.5%. Germany: Progressive tax system from 14% to 45%. Both countries have different tax benefits and deductions that can significantly impact your take-home pay.
Calculate Your Take-Home Pay in Netherlands or Germany
Use our free salary calculators to see exactly how much you'll earn after taxes in each country.
