Discover the public holidays in 2026 and 2027 across French regions and find out when taking bridge days can be particularly worthwhile. For optimal holiday planning, you will also find the 2026/2027 school holiday calendar for France, as well as important information about annual leave entitlement under French employment law.

Working in France
Public Holidays & School Holidays in France 2026/2027

How high are salaries in France really? To better understand income distribution, two key indicators are generally considered: the median salary and the average salary. They provide an overview of salary levels, while also highlighting differences between occupational groups, sectors and regions. Here are the key figures on income in France in 2026.

Working in France
Median income & average salary in France in 2026

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

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

What is the minimum wage in the different European Union countries in 2026? Discover our overview of minimum wages across Europe, expressed as gross hourly rates, as well as the key rules to consider when comparing wage levels across the EU.

Working in Germany | Working in France | Working in Europe
Minimum wage in Europe: 2026 country ranking

France is one of Europe's strongest economies, offering international professionals attractive career opportunities, competitive salaries and a high quality of life. This guide provides an overview of the French job market, in-demand sectors, workplace culture, living costs and key factors for a successful career move to France.

Working in France
Careers in France: Guide for international professionals

French employees do not like to talk about their own income, and especially after many years of employment in a company, it is difficult to estimate one's salary correctly. Likewise, when you first enter the German job market, be it as a salesperson or as a foreign company, you often don't have a clear and reliable idea about the salary level of a sales representative there. In both countries, the region in which you work and the gross-net calculation play an important role. We will explain which criteria are used to calculate the salary of office and field staff, sales managers and key account managers in France and Germany.

Recruiting in Germany | Recruiting in France | Working in Germany | Working in France
Sales salaries in France and Germany 2026