According to figures published by Statbel, the Belgian Statistical Office, the median salary is 3,550 euros. This means that 50% of employees earn a maximum of 3,550 euros, while the other half pockets a higher salary. The majority of workers (69%) earn an amount between 2,000 euros and 4,250 euros gross per month, while 10% of workers earn less than 2,334 euros gross per month.
At the other end, 10% of employees earn more than 5,991 euros gross. The profession influences “to a large extent” the salary, notes Statbel. General managers earn 180% more than the average worker, while waiters and bartenders have the lowest salaries (36% below the national average). Similarly, hairdressers and beauticians as well as household helpers receive on average a gross salary of less than 2,500 euros per month.
Salary differences between sectors
In addition to the profession, the sector in which one works also affects the salary. In Belgium, the petrochemical industry offers the most attractive salaries, with a gross average of 5,902 euros per month. It is followed by activities related to corporate headquarters, financial services, programming, and scientific research and development. The lowest salaries are paid in the hotel and catering industry, with an average amount of 2,704 euros. Accommodation and retail are also among the lowest paid sectors.
Salary differences according to profile
From a financial point of view, it is interesting to continue your studies after secondary education. Indeed, a worker with a master’s degree earns 47% more than the average Belgian. A person who leaves school without a diploma receives a salary 26% lower than the national average.
Finally, age and place of work are also taken into account in the wages received. Those who work in Brussels generally earn more than in other regions. Wages are lowest in the province of Luxembourg.
Statbel established these findings on the basis of a survey conducted among more than 130,000 workers in Belgian companies.