Compare salaries, taxes, work conditions, and quality of life between Netherlands and Spain
Thinking about relocating to Netherlands or Spain? This comprehensive Netherlands vs Spain 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
+80.6%
Netherlands pays more
Netherlands
€ 56.000
avg. salary
Spain
31.000 €
avg. salary
Netherlands vs Spain Salary Comparison
Average salary, median salary, minimum wage and top earners
Average Salary
€ 56.00031.000 €Median Salary
€ 42.00023.000 €Minimum Wage
€ 25.27217.094 €Top 10%
€ 85.00060.000 €Work-Life Balance: Netherlands vs Spain
Annual leave, working hours, maternity & paternity leave comparison
Visual Comparison
Work Week
36-40 hours
40 hours
Annual Leave
20-25 days (minimum 4x weekly hours)
22-30 days (22 minimum)
Public Holidays
8 days
14 days
Sick Leave
2 years at 70-100% salary
12-18 months (60-75% salary)
Maternity Leave
16 weeks at 100% salary
16 weeks at 100% salary
Paternity Leave
6 weeks at 70% salary
16 weeks at 100% salary
Netherlands vs Spain 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.
Spain
Why Work in Spain
Excellent Quality of Life
Mediterranean climate, rich culture, and a lifestyle that prioritizes enjoyment and social connections.
Lower Cost of Living
Housing, food, and daily expenses are significantly cheaper than Northern Europe.
Growing Tech Scene
Barcelona and Madrid have thriving startup ecosystems with increasing international opportunities.
Equal Parental Leave
Both parents receive 16 weeks of fully paid leave, among the most equal in Europe.
Generous Holidays
Up to 14 public holidays plus 22+ vacation days means ample time for rest and travel.
Challenges of Living in Spain
Lower Salaries
Average salaries are significantly lower than in Germany, Netherlands, or France.
High Unemployment
Spain historically has higher unemployment rates, especially among young professionals.
Language Barrier
Spanish is essential for most roles; English-only positions are mainly in multinational companies.
Late Work Hours
Many offices work until 7-8 PM, which may not suit those preferring early finishes.
Temporary Contracts
Temporary employment contracts are common, providing less job security.
Tax Rates Netherlands vs Spain
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
Spain
- Progressive tax system from 19% to 47%
- Regional variations in tax rates
- Social security around 6.35% for employees
- Special regime for expats (Beckham Law)
- Two extra salary payments (14 payments/year)
Best Cities to Work in Netherlands and Spain
Top destinations for tech jobs, expats and international professionals
Netherlands
Spain
How to Find Jobs in Netherlands vs Spain
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.
Spain
Work Visa Options: Netherlands vs Spain
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.
Spain Work Visas
Highly Qualified Professional Visa
For skilled workers with job offers in Spain meeting salary thresholds.
Digital Nomad Visa
New visa for remote workers employed by non-Spanish companies.
Entrepreneur Visa
For entrepreneurs planning to start or move a business to Spain.
EU Blue Card Spain
For highly qualified workers with degree and high-salary job offer.
Frequently Asked Questions: Netherlands vs Spain
Common questions about working in these countries
What is the average salary in Netherlands vs Spain?
The average salary in Netherlands is € 56.000 per year, while in Spain it is 31.000 € per year. This represents a 80.6% difference.
Which country has better work-life balance: Netherlands or Spain?
Netherlands offers 20-25 days (minimum 4x weekly hours) annual leave and 8 public holidays with a 36-40 hours work week. Spain offers 22-30 days (22 minimum) annual leave and 14 public holidays with a 40 hours work week.
How does parental leave compare between Netherlands and Spain?
In Netherlands, maternity leave is 16 weeks at 100% salary and paternity leave is 6 weeks at 70% salary. In Spain, maternity leave is 16 weeks at 100% salary and paternity leave is 16 weeks at 100% salary.
Is it better to work in Netherlands or Spain as an expat?
Both are excellent choices for expats. Netherlands offers: High English Proficiency, 30% Ruling Tax Benefit. Spain offers: Excellent Quality of Life, Lower Cost of Living. Consider your priorities like salary, language requirements, and lifestyle preferences.
What are the main tax differences between Netherlands and Spain?
Netherlands: Progressive tax system with rates from 36.97% to 49.5%. Spain: Progressive tax system from 19% to 47%. Both countries have different tax benefits and deductions that can significantly impact your take-home pay.
Calculate Your Take-Home Pay in Netherlands or Spain
Use our free salary calculators to see exactly how much you'll earn after taxes in each country.
