Thinking about relocating to Spain or Italy? This comprehensive Spain 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
-6.1%
Italy pays more
Spain
31.000 €
avg. salary
Italy
33.000 €
avg. salary
Spain vs Italy Salary Comparison
Average salary, median salary, minimum wage and top earners
Average Salary
31.000 €33.000 €Median Salary
23.000 €28.000 €Minimum Wage
17.094 €0 €Top 10%
60.000 €65.000 €Work-Life Balance: Spain vs Italy
Annual leave, working hours, maternity & paternity leave comparison
Visual Comparison
Work Week
40 hours
40 hours
Annual Leave
22-30 days (22 minimum)
20-26 days (varies by contract)
Public Holidays
14 days
12 days
Sick Leave
12-18 months (60-75% salary)
Up to 180 days at 50-100% salary
Maternity Leave
16 weeks at 100% salary
5 months at 80% salary
Paternity Leave
16 weeks at 100% salary
10 days at 100% salary
Spain vs Italy for Expats: Pros & Cons
Advantages and challenges for international workers in each country
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.
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 Spain vs Italy
Income tax, social security, and tax benefits comparison
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)
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 Spain and Italy
Top destinations for tech jobs, expats and international professionals
Spain
Italy
How to Find Jobs in Spain vs Italy
Job portals, recruitment agencies, and networking platforms
Spain
Italy
Work Visa Options: Spain vs Italy
Visa types, requirements, and duration for non-EU workers
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.
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: Spain vs Italy
Common questions about working in these countries
What is the average salary in Spain vs Italy?
The average salary in Spain is 31.000 € per year, while in Italy it is 33.000 € per year. This represents a 6.1% difference.
Which country has better work-life balance: Spain or Italy?
Spain offers 22-30 days (22 minimum) annual leave and 14 public holidays with a 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 Spain and Italy?
In Spain, maternity leave is 16 weeks at 100% salary and paternity leave is 16 weeks at 100% salary. 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 Spain or Italy as an expat?
Both are excellent choices for expats. Spain offers: Excellent Quality of Life, Lower Cost of Living. 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 Spain and Italy?
Spain: Progressive tax system from 19% to 47%. 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 Spain or Italy
Use our free salary calculators to see exactly how much you'll earn after taxes in each country.
