France and Germany are closely connected economically and culturally and have comparable standards of living, but there are noticeable differences in the cost of housing, food, transport and leisure activities. Here is a detailed comparison of the cost of living and purchasing power in France and Germany in 2026, based on the latest available data.

Working in Germany | Working in France
Cost of living in France vs. Germany in 2026

France has a nationwide statutory minimum wage, known as the SMIC. Since June 1, 2026, the French minimum wage has been €12.31 per hour and €1,867.02 per month (gross). We explain who is entitled to the SMIC and take a closer look at the current rates and their development over time.

Working in France
Minimum wage in France (SMIC) in 2026: Rates & regulations

Since 2015, a statutory minimum wage has been in force throughout Germany. In 2026, the German minimum wage is €13.90 per hour and €2,409.33 per month (gross). Find out who is entitled to the minimum wage in Germany, which categories of workers are excluded from the Mindestlohn, and what increases are planned for the coming years.

Working in Germany
Legal minimum wage in Germany in 2026: Rates & regulations

With a median gross monthly salary of CHF 7,024 (€7,432), Switzerland attracts many French- and German-speaking candidates, despite its high cost of living. What income can you realistically expect in Switzerland? What about health insurance, taxes and payslips? Here are the key points to keep in mind.

Working in Germany | Working in France
Salaries in Switzerland: Minimum wage & average pay in 2026

The Swiss job market offers numerous career opportunities for German-speaking professionals, but the wide range of local platforms can quickly become confusing. Discover the best job boards in Switzerland, along with our tips for your application, to help you find a suitable position more quickly.

Working in Germany | Working in France | Recruiting in Germany | Recruiting in France
Job boards in Switzerland: The best platforms in 2026

Austria offers numerous opportunities for international professionals looking to develop their careers abroad. But finding the right position requires knowing where to look. Here are the main Austrian job sites, along with practical recommendations to help you structure your search and improve your applications.

Working in Germany | Working in France | Recruiting in Germany | Recruiting in France
Job search platforms in Austria: The best sites in 2026

Belgium is one of the most attractive job markets for French professionals. But which job sites are particularly worth checking? We present the main Belgian job boards and provide practical tips for your job search.

Working in Germany | Working in France | Recruiting in Germany | Recruiting in France
Job boards in Belgium: The best portals in 2026

Luxembourg attracts thousands of job seekers from Germany, France, Belgium and other European countries every year. But which are the main Luxembourg job platforms for finding vacancies? We have put together the best job sites in Luxembourg, along with practical tips to help improve your chances of finding a job.

Working in Germany | Working in France | Recruiting in Germany | Recruiting in France
Job boards in Luxembourg: The best platforms in 2026

Finding a job in Germany is one thing, but knowing where to look is another. General job boards, specialised platforms, job search engines and Franco-German employment websites: there are many options available. Discover the essential websites for targeting the right vacancies and speeding up your job search in Germany.

Working in Germany | Recruiting in Germany
Job sites in Germany: The best portals in 2026

What are the average salaries in the European Union? The differences between Member States are significant, making international salary comparisons particularly interesting. The latest Eurostat data provide a better understanding of differences in income levels across European countries.

Working in Germany | Working in France
Average salary in Europe: Country ranking 2026