Thinking about relocating to France or Spain? This comprehensive France 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
+38.1%
France pays more
France
42 800 €
avg. salary
Spain
31.000 €
avg. salary
France vs Spain Salary Comparison
Average salary, median salary, minimum wage and top earners
Average Salary
42 800 €31.000 €Median Salary
36 000 €23.000 €Minimum Wage
21 876 €17.094 €Top 10%
70 000 €60.000 €Work-Life Balance: France vs Spain
Annual leave, working hours, maternity & paternity leave comparison
Visual Comparison
Work Week
35 hours (legal limit)
40 hours
Annual Leave
25 days minimum (5 weeks)
22-30 days (22 minimum)
Public Holidays
11 days
14 days
Sick Leave
Unlimited (50% from Social Security + employer top-up)
12-18 months (60-75% salary)
Maternity Leave
16 weeks at 100% salary
16 weeks at 100% salary
Paternity Leave
28 days at 100% salary
16 weeks at 100% salary
France vs Spain 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.
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 France vs Spain
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)
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 France and Spain
Top destinations for tech jobs, expats and international professionals
France
Spain
How to Find Jobs in France vs Spain
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.
Spain
Work Visa Options: France vs Spain
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.
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: France vs Spain
Common questions about working in these countries
What is the average salary in France vs Spain?
The average salary in France is 42 800 € per year, while in Spain it is 31.000 € per year. This represents a 38.1% difference.
Which country has better work-life balance: France or Spain?
France offers 25 days minimum (5 weeks) annual leave and 11 public holidays with a 35 hours (legal limit) 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 France and Spain?
In France, maternity leave is 16 weeks at 100% salary and paternity leave is 28 days at 100% 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 France or Spain as an expat?
Both are excellent choices for expats. France offers: 35-Hour Work Week, Strong Labor Protections. 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 France and Spain?
France: Progressive tax system from 0% to 45%. 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 France or Spain
Use our free salary calculators to see exactly how much you'll earn after taxes in each country.
