Minimum and average salary in Ireland per hour.

Due to the war, many Ukrainian refugees have found themselves in Ireland, but even before 2022, this country was considered by many foreigners for employment. Despite the fact that Ireland is a small country, the minimum wage in Ireland per hour is quite high. Moreover, in this country, wages are often paid by the hour, so one can earn quite a lot in a month. 

Also, the minimum wage in Ireland varies by regions of the country, even such a small one as Ireland. Furthermore, the average salary in Ireland can differ for migrants and for Irish citizens. In 2024, the situation has not changed at all. 

Average Salary in Ireland per Month

Earnings in Ireland have always attracted migrants. After all, the average salary in Ireland has always been higher than in many countries in Europe. Ireland is one of the most economically developed countries in Europe, which affects the level of wages and working conditions. Ireland is also known for very loyal employers and decent working conditions. 

In Ireland, as in many countries of the United Kingdom, there is a fixed minimum rate. This concept is regulated by the state. This indicator also changes periodically to ensure that the rate aligns with the cost of goods and services. Inflation, like in many countries, also affects salaries in Ireland. 

As of 2024, the minimum hourly wage in Ireland is set at 12.70 euros per hour. This means that every employee working full-Time earns no less than this amount for each hour of their work.

Minimum Wage in Ireland 

The minimum wage in Ireland applies to all workers over the age of 20, with some exceptions such as interns, those under 18, and others. Such a division is quite unusual for Ukrainians, but this is the system adhered to in England and Ireland. Regarding minimum rates, it usually refers to underage citizens. Workers under 18 earn 70% of the minimum rate, which amounts to 8.89 euros per hour. Interns receive 80% of the minimum rate, which amounts to 10.16 euros per hour. After the probation period, interns can earn 90% of the minimum rate for the next 2 years, which amounts to 11.43 euros per hour. That is, young people and interns work less, have less responsibility, and thus the rate is also lower. 

A few words should also be said about what influences the minimum wage: 

1. An important factor in reviewing the minimum wage is the level of inflation in the country. The government strives to ensure that wages correspond to the cost of living and enable workers to meet basic needs.

2. The state of the economy also influences decisions regarding an increase in the minimum wage. During periods of economic growth, the government usually seeks to raise wages to improve the living standards of the population.

3. The state’s policy aims to reduce inequality in society, which also leads to regular adjustments of the minimum wage.

It is the minimum wage that affects the concept of average salary in Ireland. However, average earnings depend more on qualifications, specialties, and work experience. Income is also affected by the status of the worker (citizen, migrant, or refugee). 

In 2024, the average income in the country stands at approximately 48,000 euros per year, which when converted monthly gives about 4,000 euros. The average salary, like around the world, is only an average figure. 

Therefore, the primary factor influencing earnings is the field of activity. Which of these fields offers higher earnings in 2024 in Ireland: 

1. Ireland is a European hub for technology giants such as Google, Facebook, Microsoft, and other IT companies. As a result, average salaries in this sector are significantly higher than the national average. IT specialists can earn between 60,000 and 100,000 euros per year, depending on experience and qualifications.

2. Ireland is one of the leading global producers of pharmaceutical products, which also makes this sector highly paid. The average income in the pharmaceutical sector ranges from 50,000 to 80,000 euros per year. Medical professionals, such as doctors and surgeons, can earn up to 120,000 euros.

3. Ireland is an important financial center, and specialists in this sector also earn above average. Salaries in banks and investment companies can vary from 45,000 to 90,000 euros per year.

4. Workers in the construction sector and in manual jobs earn on average between 30,000 and 45,000 euros per year. In this field, the wage level often depends on experience and the complexity of the work performed.

Thus, there are plenty of promising fields of activity in Ireland in 2024. However, one should also consider the high competition in each of these fields. 

How Much Can One Earn in Different Regions of the Country? 

Regional differences also affect earnings in Ireland. How much and where can one earn: 

1. In the capital of Ireland, the wage level is higher than in other cities. The average income in Dublin can be around 55,000 euros per year.

2. Cork. The second largest city in Ireland also offers high salaries, especially in industries such as pharmaceuticals and finance. On average, workers in Cork earn about 50,000 euros per year.

3. Limerick and Galway. In these cities, the average salary is lower than in Dublin and Cork, standing at about 40,000 euros per year. 

An important nuance of all these average salaries in Ireland is the tax system. The amount of taxes depends on the worker's income. It should be noted that taxes are quite high in this country. Therefore, one always needs to consider this factor when choosing a field of activity in Ireland. For example, the country has a 20% tax for incomes up to 36,800 euros per year (for singles) and up to 45,800 euros for married couples, and 40% for incomes above these amounts. There is also a separate category of contributions, such as social insurance.