Start with net pay, not gross
Gross salary is the headline number, but taxes and social contributions take a different share in each country. Convert every offer to net pay first with our net salary calculator and compare the monthly amounts.
Check how many salary payments you get
In some countries salary is paid in 12 monthly instalments, in others in 13 or 14. A contract that says 3,000 per month for 14 payments is very different from 3,000 for 12. Always convert the contract to a yearly figure.
Look at benefits and social protection
Health insurance, pension contributions, paid leave, parental leave and unemployment cover differ widely. A lower net salary can still be better value if the employer pays for benefits you would otherwise buy yourself.
Compare cost of living, especially rent
Housing is usually the biggest cost. Compare rent in the exact city, not only the national average, and add transport, groceries and local taxes. A simple approach is to subtract realistic monthly costs from your net pay and compare what is left.
Convert currencies carefully
If an offer is in another currency, use a current rate in our currency converter and remember that exchange rates move.