Thinking about relocating to Germany or Italy? This comprehensive Germany vs Italy 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
+57.6%
Germany pays more
Germany
52.000 €
avg. salary
Italy
33.000 €
avg. salary
Germany vs Italy Salary Comparison
Average salary, median salary, minimum wage and top earners
Average Salary
52.000 €33.000 €Median Salary
44.000 €28.000 €Minimum Wage
24.960 €0 €Top 10%
80.000 €65.000 €Work-Life Balance: Germany vs Italy
Annual leave, working hours, maternity & paternity leave comparison
Visual Comparison
Work Week
35-40 hours
40 hours
Annual Leave
20-30 days (minimum 20 days)
20-26 days (varies by contract)
Public Holidays
9 days
12 days
Sick Leave
6 weeks at 100%, then 70% (up to 78 weeks)
Up to 180 days at 50-100% salary
Maternity Leave
14 weeks at 100% salary
5 months at 80% salary
Paternity Leave
Up to 14 months parental leave (shared)
10 days at 100% salary
Germany vs Italy for Expats: Pros & Cons
Advantages and challenges for international workers in each country
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.
Italy
Why Work in Italy
Quality of Life
Excellent food, culture, climate, and work-life balance with emphasis on enjoying life.
Lower Cost of Living
Outside Milan, living costs are significantly lower than Northern Europe.
Strong Worker Protections
Robust labor laws, generous leave, and mandatory severance fund (TFR).
Cultural Experience
World-class art, history, cuisine, and lifestyle opportunities.
Healthcare
Universal healthcare system ranked among the best in the world.
Challenges of Living in Italy
Lower Salaries
Wages are generally lower than Northern Europe, especially in tech.
Bureaucracy
Complex administrative processes and paperwork can be frustrating.
Language Barrier
English proficiency in workplaces varies; Italian is often necessary.
Economic Uncertainty
Higher unemployment rates, especially for youth, and slower economic growth.
Regional Disparities
Significant economic gap between North and South Italy.
Tax Rates Germany vs Italy
Income tax, social security, and tax benefits comparison
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
Italy
- Progressive IRPEF tax with 3 brackets: 23%, 33%, 43%
- Regional tax (1.23%-3.33%) and municipal tax (0%-0.9%) on top of national tax
- Social security contribution around 9.19% for employees
- Mandatory 13th month salary (Tredicesima)
- TFR severance fund accrual of ~6.91% per year
- Flat tax regime available for new residents (Impatriati regime)
Best Cities to Work in Germany and Italy
Top destinations for tech jobs, expats and international professionals
Germany
Italy
How to Find Jobs in Germany vs Italy
Job portals, recruitment agencies, and networking platforms
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.
Italy
Work Visa Options: Germany vs Italy
Visa types, requirements, and duration for non-EU workers
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.
Italy Work Visas
EU Blue Card
For highly qualified non-EU workers with a university degree or equivalent experience.
Work Visa (Nulla Osta)
Standard work permit for non-EU nationals with a job offer.
Self-Employment Visa
For freelancers, entrepreneurs, and self-employed professionals.
Digital Nomad Visa
New visa for remote workers employed by foreign companies (from 2024).
Frequently Asked Questions: Germany vs Italy
Common questions about working in these countries
What is the average salary in Germany vs Italy?
The average salary in Germany is 52.000 € per year, while in Italy it is 33.000 € per year. This represents a 57.6% difference.
Which country has better work-life balance: Germany or Italy?
Germany offers 20-30 days (minimum 20 days) annual leave and 9 public holidays with a 35-40 hours work week. Italy offers 20-26 days (varies by contract) annual leave and 12 public holidays with a 40 hours work week.
How does parental leave compare between Germany and Italy?
In Germany, maternity leave is 14 weeks at 100% salary and paternity leave is Up to 14 months parental leave (shared). In Italy, maternity leave is 5 months at 80% salary and paternity leave is 10 days at 100% salary.
Is it better to work in Germany or Italy as an expat?
Both are excellent choices for expats. Germany offers: Strong Job Security, Excellent Engineering & Tech Sector. Italy offers: Quality of Life, Lower Cost of Living. Consider your priorities like salary, language requirements, and lifestyle preferences.
What are the main tax differences between Germany and Italy?
Germany: Progressive tax system from 14% to 45%. Italy: Progressive IRPEF tax with 3 brackets: 23%, 33%, 43%. Both countries have different tax benefits and deductions that can significantly impact your take-home pay.
Calculate Your Take-Home Pay in Germany or Italy
Use our free salary calculators to see exactly how much you'll earn after taxes in each country.
