Postal Letter

How do salaries compare between U.S. and Western Europe?

For example how much would doctors/lawyers/teachers/ accountants etc. be paid on average in the U.S. as compared to say France, or Germany? I would suspect that salaries for these professional type positions would be higher in the U.S. as compared to other countries, however salaries for other jobs like waiters, janitors, mailman etc. may be higher in Europe since I suspect the minimum wage is much higher there. What got me interested in this question, was that I read an article, a few days ago (I think it was the NY Times) that talked about Europe's shrinking middle class. I remember reading that the salary for a mid-career elementary school teacher in France was only about $21,000 euro annually (only about $31,000 even with the bad exchange rate). I thought that was awfully low considering that entry level teachers in the U.S. can make around $40,000, and could be at 55-60,000 by midcareer. Any insight would be appreciated.

Public Comments

1. Salaries are much better in europe. Plus you dont have to pay for insurance. They have free medical there. You also dont have to worry about driving around, most people walk or take the bus.You also have more leave for like maternity there. You have ur paid holidays.
2. You are right, professional jobs are lower in Europe than their American counterparts. The one redeeming fact is that taxes are taken out before you receive your check and that the quality of living over there is higher. Also, much more vacation time over there. Approx 2 months on average no matter what the job is, paid vacation usually. Also, free medical...