What is the average salary in Denmark?

As mentioned, the average monthly salary in Denmark in 2023 is 45,481 DKK - before taxes. It’s important to note that this figure is an average of all wages in Denmark, including both full-time and part-time workers, workers with low and high income - across all industries and occupations. Also, pensions are included in the amount.

Regarding average salary, Denmark ranks among the highest in the world. In fact, according to data from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) , Denmark has the fifth-highest average wage among OECD countries - behind only Switzerland, Luxembourg, Iceland, and the United States.

What is the minimum wage in Denmark?

There is no official minimum wage in Denmark set by law. Instead, wages are sometimes, but not always, set through bargaining agreements between employers and trade unions that ensure workers are fairly compensated.

Some workers are protected by various labor laws and regulations that will ensure fair treatment, covering areas such as working hours, overtime pay, and vacation time.

Salaries and job titles

Some jobs and job sectors in Denmark offer higher salaries than others. Salaries can also vary depending on where you live in Denmark. Generally, wages are higher in larger cities like Copenhagen and Aarhus - where the cost of living is also higher.

Work experience and education also play a significant role in determining salary levels. On average, Danish adults with a tertiary degree earn 28% more than those without a degree. 

Workers with more experience in their field tend to earn higher salaries than those with less experience. The salary may also vary depending on whether you have an entry-level, mid-level, or senior-level position.

Pensions

The pension system in Denmark is based on the income earned during working years. This means that pensions are also an important aspect of income.

In Denmark, many workers are enrolled in a state-managed pension plan known as the ATP, which provides retirement benefits based on the worker’s contributions.

Taxes in Denmark

In Denmark you have to pay taxes, and these taxes can impact your income and salary. Income taxes are progressive, meaning that those who earn more pay a higher percentage of their income in taxes - ranging between 37% to 50% tax percentage of your income.

Tip: Read more about taxes in Denmark

Negotiating salary

Denmark has a strong tradition of unionization - with around 70% of the country’s workforce belonging to a labor union. As a result, many workers in Denmark enjoy job protections and benefits, including paid vacation time, sick leave, and parental leave with parental benefits.

But not all workers in Denmark are covered by these collective agreements. Salary negotiations are common practice, but it differs from workplace to workplace what kind of negotiation is viable.

Some workplaces hold salary negotiations, and other places you might need to negotiate on your own initiative. No matter what, it is important that you research the industry and position to ensure the negotiated salary is fair and reasonable.

Working in Denmark

Other than high salaries, Denmark is known for prioritising work-life balance. Typically, Danes working full-time will have an official work-week of 37 hours - but the hours worked might vary from different other circumstances. Denmark has no general law on working hours, but the 37 hours per week is laid down in the collective agreements. Also, employees are entitled to five weeks of paid vacation per year, with an addition of a holiday allowance of 1%.

Tip: Read more about working in Denmark

Cost of living in Denmark

Some might consider the cost of living in Denmark as high, as Denmark ranks among the most expensive countries in Europe, with high prices for housing, food, and consumer goods.

However, it’s worth noting that Denmark also offers a high standard of living - with social benefits, including free healthcare, subsidized education, and generous parental policies.

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Last updated August 16, 2023. We’ve collected general information. Please note, that there may be specific circumstances that you need to be aware of.