While the average income in Portugal provides a broad perspective, one must also consider factors such as salaries specific to various industries and regional disparities. This guide presents a detailed analysis of salary information on the average salary in Portugal.
According to the National Statistics Bureau (INE), Portugal's average salary per month in 2020 was 1,314 euros, translating to an annual total of 18,396 euros, which includes Christmas and holiday bonuses. The monthly average wage in Portugal for the year 2024 is €1,620, indicating a positive increase compared to prior years; however, it remains lower than that of countries such as France and Germany.
A Comprehensive Analysis of Average Salaries in Portugal
The topic of average salaries in Portugal captivates many individuals, particularly due to its notable differences compared to other European countries. As of 2026, the gross monthly salary has risen to €1,620. To provide a clearer perspective, the following outlines the progression of this figure over recent years:
2020: €1,314/month
2021: €1,361/month
2022: €1,411/month
2023: €1,505/month
2024: €1,540/month
2025: €1,580/month
2026: €1,620/month
What is the Median Salary in Portugal?
In 2024, the median salary in Portugal stands at €1,240 per month. This figure serves to split the population into two equal segments: individuals earning above this amount and those earning below it.
What is the Minimum Wage (SMIC) in Portugal?
As of 2026, the minimum wage in Portugal, known as SMIC, has been increased to a gross amount of €870 per month, distributed over 14 months, which is a standard practice in the country.
Highest-Paying Professions in Portugal
The highest-paying professions in Portugal are predominantly found within managerial roles, particularly in sectors such as Operations, General Management (Tourism), Medical Management, Legal Advisory, Industrial Executive Positions, and Purchasing Management.
Salary Increases by Sector
Average Salary in Portugal by Education Level
Data from the National Institute of Statistics (INE) indicates a significant relationship between educational attainment and salary levels in Portugal. Individuals with higher educational qualifications tend to earn more, with average monthly earnings as follows:
Doctoral degree: approximately €3,050
Master’s degree: around €2,450
Bachelor’s degree: an average monthly income of €2,250
Primary education: approximately €1,020
Additionally, INE provided data that offers a more detailed view of how education influences average salary in Portugal, revealing that certain municipalities exhibit notably higher wages.
For example, Vila do Porto reported exceptionally high salaries of around €5,200 for employees with tertiary education.
In contrast, rural municipalities such as Sines, Castro Verde, Oeiras, and others continue to record average salaries exceeding €2,100 for the same educational level.
Gender Wage Gap Updates: 2026
In 2026, the gender pay gap in Portugal is estimated to be around 12–13%, broadly in line with the EU average, indicating that women continue to earn noticeably less than men on average.
Portugal already requires employers with over 50 employees to conduct regular pay analyses, identify unjustified wage differences, and correct them within 180 days. These rules have been in place since 2018 and remain applicable.
Employers are not limited to reporting alone. They are expected to maintain transparent pay structures, clearly defined salary criteria, and concrete action plans to address unexplained gaps.
From 2026 onward, the EU Pay Transparency Directive significantly expands these obligations. Companies must disclose pay ranges in job postings, allow employees access to pay criteria, and carry out joint pay assessments if gender gaps exceed 5% without objective justification.
Reporting under the directive will be phased in: companies with 250+ employees will report first (using 2026 payroll data), followed by mid-sized employers, while firms with 100–149 employees will fall under the rules by 2031.