What Is the Average Salary for Master’s Graduates in France

What Is the Average Salary for Master’s Graduates in France?

France is a wonderful country to complete a master’s degree, offering graduates competitive salaries and global opportunities. Understanding the average salary in France for master’s graduates is key to planning your next steps and career path. This guide explores salary expectations, regional variations and the factors that influence earnings.

Salary Structure in France and Key Statistics

France typically uses a gross monthly salary system that combines base wages with benefits, social contributions and bonuses. The legal minimum wage is the salaire minimum interprofessionnel de croissance (SMIC). Approximately 17% of workers earn the minimum wage. According to INSEE, the overall average salary in France is around €39,800, with steady growth in recent years. Master’s graduates often earn above the national average.

The France average salary varies with education level, experience, industry and location, which drives notable regional differences.

Average Salaries in France for Master’s Graduates

Recent master’s graduates typically earn €2,500–€3,500 gross per month depending on field, industry and location. Approximate annual ranges by level include:

• Entry level: €55,000–€80,000
• Mid-level: €80,000–€120,000
• Senior level: €120,000+

With a few years of experience, post-master’s professionals may reach six-figure salaries, reflecting the long-term value of advanced education in French companies.

What is a Good Salary in France for Master’s Students?

• High range: €45,000+ annually
• Good range: €35,000–€45,000 annually
• Entry level: €28,000–€35,000 annually

Also consider benefits, clear growth pathways and the strong work-life balance culture in France.

How Much Do I Need to Earn to Live in France?

Costs vary by region, with Paris among the most expensive. Rough monthly estimates for a single person:

• Paris: apartment €900–€1,200; total €1,800–€2,500
• Major cities (Lyon/Bordeaux/Marseille): apartment €700–€1,200; total €1,300–€1,800
• Smaller cities (Nantes/Strasbourg/Rennes): apartment €500–€900; total €1,000–€1,400

To live comfortably, budget around €1,800–€2,000 per month in Paris and €1,400–€1,700 in other metropolitan cities.

What is the Minimum Salary in France?

The SMIC is revised regularly. As of 1 January 2025, it’s €11.88/hour. On a 35-hour week, that’s roughly €415.80 weekly, €1,801.80 monthly and €21,621.60 annually. See details on minimum wage at Expatica. Master’s graduates typically earn well above SMIC—often 50–80% higher at the start.

What is the Average Salary in France? — Detailed Breakdown

City-Based Averages (Annual)

• Paris: €51,537
• Marseille: €43,959
• Lyon: €45,137
• Toulouse: €43,843
• Nice: €43,806
• Bordeaux: €42,864
• Nantes: €42,800

Education-Wise Averages

• Vocational Degree: €25,000
• Bachelor’s Degree: €35,000
• Master’s Degree: €45,000
• PhD: €50,000

Gender-Wise Averages

• Male: €50,000
• Female: €48,600

Industry-Based Averages

• Healthcare: €85,000–€110,000
• Banking and Finance: €40,000–€50,000
• Technology & 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

Key Factors Affecting Salaries

• Economic conditions: Inflation and policy updates (SMIC adjustments).
• Location: Paris and major cities tend to pay higher salaries.
• Industry demand: In-demand fields (IT, finance, healthcare) pay more.
• Experience: Internships and prior roles boost starting pay.
• Company size: Large multinationals often offer stronger packages.
• Language skills: English + French can increase earning potential.

Conclusion

Salaries in France vary by role, sector and location. With a master’s degree, you can expect competitive pay alongside strong benefits and a healthy work-life balance. For local insight and industry links, explore BSBI’s Paris campus.