What is the Average Salary in France for Master’s Graduates
France is a wonderful country to complete a master’s degree, offering graduates competitive salaries and a global job market with opportunities. Understanding the average salary in France for master’s graduates is crucial in deciding what to do after completing your education and developing your career path. This guide will explore the salary expectations, regional variations, and key factors that will influence earnings in France.
Salary structure in France and key statistics
Like with many countries, France operates on a gross monthly salary system that combines base wages with various benefits, social contributions and productivity bonuses. The legal minimum wage is known as the le salaire minimum interprofessionnel de croissance (SMIC), and those who earn this salary are often referred to as “smicards”. Approximately 17% of workers in France earn the minimum wage.
According to the French National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (INSEE), the overall average salary in France is around €39,800. This has shown steady growth over the last few years and those with master’s degrees can earn above the national average.
The France average salary is influenced by factors such as education level, experience, industry and location, highlighting regional differences across the country.
Average salaries in France for master’s graduates
Master’s graduates in France can expect attractive starting salaries that reflect their advanced education. The average salary in France per month for recent master’s graduates typically ranges from €2,500 to €3,500 gross, depending on the field of study, industry and location.
Here are some approximate figures for master’s graduates:
- Entry level: €55,000 – €80,000 annually
- Mid-level: €80,000 – €120,000 annually
- Senior level: €120,000+ annually
After a few years of experience, post-master’s professionals could potentially earn six figures, reflecting the long-term value of advanced education in French companies.
What is a good salary in France for master’s students?
A “good salary” in France for master’s graduates depends on the lifestyle and city you live in. Generally, salaries above the national average would indicate a strong earning potential and are typically viewed as solid for young professionals.
- High range: €45,000+ annually
- Good range: €35,000 – €45,000 annually
- Entry level: €28,000 – €35,000 annually
Besides the salary, you can consider a comprehensive benefits package, career growth opportunities, and work-life balance that French companies offer.
How much do I need to earn to live in France?
The average cost of living in France varies by region, with Paris being one of the most expensive. Here’s a breakdown comparison for a single person in Paris and in other major cities.
Paris
- Single apartment: €900 – €1,200 per month
- Total monthly costs: €1,800 – €2,500 per month
Major cities (Lyon/Bordeaux/ Marseille)
- Single apartment: €700 – €1,200
- Total monthly costs: €1,300 – €1,800
Smaller cities (Nantes/Strasbourg/Rennes)
- Single apartment: €500 – €900
- Total monthly costs: €1,000 – €1,400
To live comfortably in France, you’ll likely need at least €1,800 – €2,000 per month to live in Paris and around €1,400 – €1,700 in other metropolitan cities.
What is the minimum salary in France?
The minimum salary in France (SMIC – salaire minimum interprofessionnel de croissance) is revised each year to reflect economic conditions. As of 1 January 2025, the minimum wage in France is €11.88 per hour. For an employee working full-time based on a 35-hour workweek, this would be around:
- Weekly rate: €415.80
- Monthly rate: €1,801.80
- Annual minimum: €21,621.60
However, master’s graduates typically earn well above the minimum wage, with starting salaries usually 50-80% higher than SMIC levels.
What is the Average salary in France? — Detailed Breakdown
City-Based Average Salary
Provincial salary variations in France result from living standards, population and economic factors, leading to different average salary rates across the country. Here is a breakdown of the annual salaries by cities:
- Paris: € 51,537
- Marseille: €43,959
- Lyon: €45,137
- Toulouse: €43,843
- Nice: €43,806
- Bordeaux: €42,864
- Nantes: €42,800
Education-Wise Average Salary
Education level significantly impacts the average salary in France:
- Vocational Degree: €25,000
- Bachelor’s Degree: €35,000
- Master’s Degree: €45,000
- PhD: €50,000
Gender-Wise Average Salary
Gender pay gaps do exist in France, though legislation continues to address these differences:
- Male: €50,000
- Female: €48,600
Industry-Based Average Salary
Different sectors offer varying compensation levels for master’s graduates:
- Healthcare: €85,000 – €110,000
- Banking and Finance: €40,000 – €50,000
- Technology and IT: €45,000 – €55,000
- Engineering: €40,000 – €50,000
- Marketing: €42,000 – €63,000
- Consulting: €42,000 – €60,000
- Human Resources: €42,000 – €56,000
- Hospitality: €30,000 – €50,000
- Education: €28,000 – €38,000
Note: The figures provided are estimates based on available research and are intended as a general guide. Actual expenses may vary depending on lifestyle, location, and market changes over time.
Key factors Affecting salaries
There are many factors to consider affecting salary trends in France, such as the economy, socio-political factors and the fast-changing labour market. Knowing the influences of these factors is crucial for foreign professionals as it can help them navigate salary structures more effectively.
- Economic Conditions: Inflation rates significantly influence the salary trends worldwide and France is no exception. The government regularly adjusts the SMIC to reflect changes in inflation rates to ensure minimum wages are in line with rising living costs.
- Geographical location: Paris and other major cities offer higher salaries to match the living standards.
- Industry Demand: Fields with high demand, including IT, finance and healthcare, will offer higher salary ranges due to the specialised skills required.
- Work experience: Internships and previous work experience can lead to higher starting salaries.
- Company size: Larger multinational companies often provide better compensation packages.
- Language skills: Proficiency in multiple languages, including English and French, can boost earning potential.
Conclusion
he average salaries in France vary based on several factors and understanding these can help you plan your future, manage your finances better, and make more informed decisions. With a master’s degree, you can expect competitive salaries along with a strong benefits system and work-life balance culture.
Success in the French job market requires planning and understanding salary variations, industry trends, and the importance of cultural integration. By leveraging a master’s degree and understanding the salary system, you can position yourself for a rewarding career in France.
Explore BSBI’s Paris campus and its specialised master’s programmes that will equip you with the skills, local insights and industry knowledge you need to navigate the French job market.