Thinking about relocating to Italy or Spain? This comprehensive Italy 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
+6.5%
Italy pays more
Italy
33.000 €
avg. salary
Spain
31.000 €
avg. salary
Italy vs Spain Salary Comparison
Average salary, median salary, minimum wage and top earners
Average Salary
33.000 €31.000 €Median Salary
28.000 €23.000 €Minimum Wage
0 €17.094 €Top 10%
65.000 €60.000 €Work-Life Balance: Italy vs Spain
Annual leave, working hours, maternity & paternity leave comparison
Visual Comparison
Work Week
40 hours
40 hours
Annual Leave
20-26 days (varies by contract)
22-30 days (22 minimum)
Public Holidays
12 days
14 days
Sick Leave
Up to 180 days at 50-100% salary
12-18 months (60-75% salary)
Maternity Leave
5 months at 80% salary
16 weeks at 100% salary
Paternity Leave
10 days at 100% salary
16 weeks at 100% salary
Italy vs Spain for Expats: Pros & Cons
Advantages and challenges for international workers in each country
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.
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 Italy vs Spain
Income tax, social security, and tax benefits comparison
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)
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 Italy and Spain
Top destinations for tech jobs, expats and international professionals
Italy
Spain
How to Find Jobs in Italy vs Spain
Job portals, recruitment agencies, and networking platforms
Italy
Spain
Work Visa Options: Italy vs Spain
Visa types, requirements, and duration for non-EU workers
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).
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: Italy vs Spain
Common questions about working in these countries
What is the average salary in Italy vs Spain?
The average salary in Italy is 33.000 € per year, while in Spain it is 31.000 € per year. This represents a 6.5% difference.
Which country has better work-life balance: Italy or Spain?
Italy offers 20-26 days (varies by contract) annual leave and 12 public holidays with a 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 Italy and Spain?
In Italy, maternity leave is 5 months at 80% salary and paternity leave is 10 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 Italy or Spain as an expat?
Both are excellent choices for expats. Italy offers: Quality of Life, Lower Cost of Living. 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 Italy and Spain?
Italy: Progressive IRPEF tax with 3 brackets: 23%, 33%, 43%. 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 Italy or Spain
Use our free salary calculators to see exactly how much you'll earn after taxes in each country.
