Compare salaries, taxes, work conditions, and quality of life between France and Netherlands
Thinking about relocating to France or Netherlands? This comprehensive France 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
-23.6%
Netherlands pays more
France
42 800 €
avg. salary
Netherlands
€ 56.000
avg. salary
France vs Netherlands Salary Comparison
Average salary, median salary, minimum wage and top earners
Average Salary
42 800 €€ 56.000Median Salary
36 000 €€ 42.000Minimum Wage
21 876 €€ 25.272Top 10%
70 000 €€ 85.000Work-Life Balance: France vs Netherlands
Annual leave, working hours, maternity & paternity leave comparison
Visual Comparison
Work Week
35 hours (legal limit)
36-40 hours
Annual Leave
25 days minimum (5 weeks)
20-25 days (minimum 4x weekly hours)
Public Holidays
11 days
8 days
Sick Leave
Unlimited (50% from Social Security + employer top-up)
2 years at 70-100% salary
Maternity Leave
16 weeks at 100% salary
16 weeks at 100% salary
Paternity Leave
28 days at 100% salary
6 weeks at 70% salary
France vs Netherlands for Expats: Pros & Cons
Advantages and challenges for international workers in each country
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.
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 France vs Netherlands
Income tax, social security, and tax benefits comparison
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)
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 France and Netherlands
Top destinations for tech jobs, expats and international professionals
France
Netherlands
How to Find Jobs in France vs Netherlands
Job portals, recruitment agencies, and networking platforms
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.
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: France vs Netherlands
Visa types, requirements, and duration for non-EU workers
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.
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: France vs Netherlands
Common questions about working in these countries
What is the average salary in France vs Netherlands?
The average salary in France is 42 800 € per year, while in Netherlands it is € 56.000 per year. This represents a 23.6% difference.
Which country has better work-life balance: France or Netherlands?
France offers 25 days minimum (5 weeks) annual leave and 11 public holidays with a 35 hours (legal limit) 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 France and Netherlands?
In France, maternity leave is 16 weeks at 100% salary and paternity leave is 28 days at 100% salary. 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 France or Netherlands as an expat?
Both are excellent choices for expats. France offers: 35-Hour Work Week, Strong Labor Protections. 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 France and Netherlands?
France: Progressive tax system from 0% 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 France or Netherlands
Use our free salary calculators to see exactly how much you'll earn after taxes in each country.
