Nestled in the heart of Europe, Poland is a great place to live and work, offering beautiful landscapes, a rich cultural heritage, and a strong economy and infrastructure supporting IT professionals. With regular salary increases, you can enjoy a stable and rewarding life, with an average monthly salary of 7,560 PLN (equivalent to USD 1,820). 

So whether you've been in your profession for years or just starting your career path, Poland has something for everyone. From Warsaw and Kraków to Wroclaw and Gdańsk, many cities are brimming with opportunities.

Average salary in Poland 2023

In 2023, the average salary in Poland is around 7,560 PLN per month, equivalent to approximately USD 1,820 per month and 90,800 PLN per year, according to Salary Explorer. 

However, it's important to note that industry, experience and education levels play a significant role in determining salary levels in Poland. Employees with 2-5 years of experience earn roughly 32% more than juniors. Additionally, those holding certificates or diplomas make approximately 17% more than high school graduates. Again, individuals with a master's degree can expect to earn around 29% more than those with only a bachelor's degree.

This emphasis on education and experience highlights the value of knowledge and skill development within the Polish job market.

Salary breakdown by profession

Your salary in Poland will vary greatly based on your experience and level of education. The fields of IT and healthcare offer some of the highest-paying jobs in the country, with professionals like software developers and surgeons earning top salaries.

‍

Here's a breakdown of average salaries by profession:

1. IT Professionals: Software developers and other IT specialists are some of the highest-earning people in Poland, with Computer Programmers earning on average 109,796 PLN annually and Data analysts making 160,744 PLN yearly. 
   ‍
2. Medical Professionals: Doctors and medical specialists are highly valued in Poland and are rewarded accordingly. On average, doctors earn over 10,000 PLN per month (USD 2,409), while dentists expect to make slightly less.
   ‍
3. Engineers: With its thriving manufacturing and engineering sectors, engineers in Poland are well-compensated for their skills. Depending on their specialisation and experience level, engineers can earn anywhere from 7,500 PLN to 13,000 PLN monthly (USD 1,806 - USD 3,127).
   ‍
4. Teachers:  Education is highly valued in Poland, as teachers play an important role in shaping future generations. Salaries for teachers vary depending on the level they teach and their qualifications. Primary school teachers earn an average of around 4,000-6,000 PLN per month (USD 964 - USD 1,446), while high school teachers can make about 5,000-8,000 PLN monthly (USD 1,206 - USD 1,927).
   ‍
5. Designers: The creative industry is flourishing in Poland with a growing demand for talented designers across various fields, such as graphic design or interior design. Designers typically earn between 4,500-8,500 PLN per month (USD 1,084 - USD 2,048) depending on their expertise and experience.

These figures provide a glimpse into Poland's wide range of salaries across different professions. Remember that these are average figures, and individual earnings may vary based on location, company size, and demand for specific skills. However, one thing is certain - no matter which profession you choose, your hard work and dedication will be rewarded in this vibrant country.

Average salary in major regions

‍

According to the stats obtained by the Central Statistical Office, Warsaw takes the lead with an average monthly salary of 8,510 PLN. The capital city is known for its thriving business environment and offers great opportunities across various industries.

Kraków follows closely behind with an average monthly salary of 8,290 PLN. As a major cultural and economic hub, Kraków attracts multinational companies and startups, providing diverse job prospects.

Moving on to Wroclaw, this vibrant city boasts an average monthly salary of 8,060 PLN. With its strong focus on technology and innovation, Wroclaw has become popular for IT professionals and engineers seeking competitive wages and career growth.

On the other hand, Katowice offers an average monthly salary of 6,280 PLN. Known for its industrial heritage and coal mining history, Katowice has transformed into a modern metropolis with emerging sectors such as renewable energy and logistics.

Lastly, Gdańsk offers an average monthly salary of 6,890 PLN, while Lublin stands at 6,490 PLN. Gdańsk's strategic location on the Baltic Sea makes it a prominent centre for trade and maritime activities. Meanwhile, Lublin is gaining traction as an attractive destination for shared services centres due to its lower cost of living than other major cities in Poland.

No matter which region you choose in Poland, you can expect competitive salaries that reflect your skills and experience level. Take advantage of the country's fast-growing economy and robust infrastructure coupled with a talented workforce to elevate your career prospects while enjoying a comfortable standard of living.

Comparison by experience and education

According to Glassdoor, employees with 2-5 years of experience earn approximately 32% more than their less experienced counterparts. This shows the value that employers place on skills and expertise gained through working in the industry for a few years.

To summarise the impact of experience and education on salaries in Poland:

‍

These figures highlight the significance of gaining practical experience, pursuing further education, and obtaining specialised certifications or diplomas for individuals seeking to increase their earning potential in Poland.

Average salaries in other European countries

Europe is undeniably a great destination for individuals seeking employment opportunities. With its diverse cultures, rich history, and strong economies, Europe offers a multitude of advantages for those looking to work abroad. The continent boasts a highly skilled workforce, outstanding working conditions, and a robust social welfare system that ensures a high standard of living. 

If you are interested in exploring the job market in Europe, we have a collection of informative articles that detail the average salaries in different European countries. These articles can provide valuable insights into the earning potential and cost of living, assisting you in making informed decisions about your future career prospects in Europe.

‍

Living expenses in Poland

Here are three key factors to consider when deciding if pursuing a career in Poland is right for you: 

• Housing: Rent is one of the biggest expenses for expats in Poland. The cost of renting an apartment varies depending on the city, with Warsaw being the most expensive and smaller cities like Lublin being more affordable. On average, you can expect to pay around 2,500 PLN per month for a one-bedroom apartment in central areas of major cities. If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider sharing an apartment or looking for accommodation outside the city centre.
  ‍
• Food and groceries: Eating out in restaurants may be more expensive than cooking at home, but it's still relatively affordable compared to other European countries. You can enjoy delicious Polish cuisine without breaking the bank, with an average meal at an inexpensive restaurant costing roughly 35.00 zł. For those who prefer cooking at home, grocery prices are reasonable, and there are plenty of supermarkets and local markets where you can find fresh produce at affordable prices. Milk will set you back roughly 3.76 zł per litre, while a loaf of bread costs about 4.67 zł. 
  ‍
• Transportation: Public transportation in Poland is efficient and reasonably priced. Cities have well-connected networks of buses, trams, and metros, making getting around easy and convenient. Monthly passes for public transport typically cost 119.00 zł, depending on the city. 

By understanding these key aspects of living expenses in Poland, you can better manage your finances and make informed decisions about your budgeting priorities. Our cost of living stats have been pulled from Numbeo. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the average salary in Poland compare to other European countries?
‍The average salary in Poland is relatively lower than in other European countries. However, Poland is still a preferred work destination due to its skilled talent pool, stable economy, and strong work ethic.

What are the highest-paying professions in Poland?
‍Poland's highest-paying professions include IT specialists, engineers, managers, doctors, and lawyers. These professionals earn significantly higher salaries than others due to their specialised skills and expertise.

Are there any specific industries or sectors in Poland that offer higher salaries?
‍Industries in Poland that offer higher salaries include IT, finance, and engineering. These sectors boast competitive wages due to the high demand for skilled professionals. Get ready to reap the rewards!