Dreaming about moving to Finland for work? Or just curious about what it really takes to land a top-paying job in this northern country? Finland’s reputation for clean cities, world-leading education, and strong social safety nets continues to attract workers from around the globe. But what’s it really like to build a career there in 2024 and beyond? Here’s a detailed breakdown of Finland’s job market, the highest and lowest paying jobs, salary comparisons, and what you need to know before making the move.
Finland’s Job Market and Economic Snapshot
Finland stands out for its steady economy and high living standards. The country’s unemployment rate in 2024 sits at around 6–7%, keeping things stable for workers and employers. Its GDP growth rate hovers at 1.5%, which reflects modest but steady progress.
Key industries drive the Finnish economy:
- Technology
- Healthcare
- Manufacturing
- Clean energy
An aging population has created steady demand for skilled professionals. That means jobs in IT, engineering, and healthcare keep popping up, as companies look for new talent.
Key sectors in demand:
- IT and software
- Engineering (mechanical, electrical, civil)
- Healthcare and nursing
- Clean tech and renewables
For those chasing global careers, Finland’s aging population spells opportunity. Companies, hospitals, and manufacturers need fresh ideas, digital tools, and hands-on experience more than ever.
What Salaries Look Like in Finland (2024)
Average Salary by Finnish City
Monthly gross salaries vary by role and experience, but where you live matters too. Some cities command bigger paychecks, but that can come with higher rent and costs.
Average monthly salaries (before taxes) in 2024:
- Helsinki: €4,200
- Espoo: €4,000
- Tampere: €3,600
- Turku: €3,500
- Oulu: €3,400
Helsinki, Finland’s capital, leads the way with the highest wages. Its large companies, headquarters, and tech hubs attract talent—and pay for it. Surrounding cities like Espoo also offer slightly higher salaries. Smaller towns and cities pay less, but living there is much more affordable.
How Finnish Salaries Stack Up Across Europe
Wondering how Finland compares with its European neighbors? Here are average monthly salaries (before taxes):
| Country | Avg. Monthly Salary |
|---|---|
| Switzerland | €6,500 |
| Denmark | €5,500 |
| Norway | €5,000 |
| Germany | €4,500 |
| Netherlands | €4,200 |
| Sweden | €4,100 |
| Belgium | €4,000 |
| France | €3,800 |
| Finland | €3,600 |
Finland finds itself in the middle of the pack. Salaries in tech and healthcare can be competitive, but overall, wages are a step behind Switzerland and the Nordics. However, the cost of living, especially outside Helsinki, balances things out for many workers.
Highest Paying Jobs in Finland
Some jobs in Finland offer paychecks that rival the best in Europe. Most of the top spots go to those in IT, healthcare, and top management.
Finland’s highest paying jobs in 2024, by average monthly salary:
- IT Directors & CIOs – €11,000
- Specialist Medical Professionals (anesthesiologists, cardiologists) – €10,500
- CEOs – €10,000
- Pilots – €9,000
- Doctors and Surgeons – €8,000
- AI & Data Scientists – €7,800
- Financial Analysts & Investment Bankers – €7,200
- Engineering Managers – €5,500–7,000
- Senior IT Professionals (Software Architects, DevOps Engineers) – €7,000
- Legal Professionals (Judges, Lawyers) – €6,500
Fields like IT and healthcare keep climbing, pushed forward by tech adoption and a healthcare system stretched by an older population. Investing in high-demand skills—like AI, cybersecurity, or physician specializations—significantly boosts earning potential.
Why IT and Healthcare Lead
Finland’s focus on technology and digital services means companies compete fiercely for qualified IT staff. Meanwhile, an older population puts pressure on hospitals and clinics to find more doctors, nurses, and specialists. Executive roles and pilots also see high wages thanks to high barriers to entry and big responsibilities.
Finland’s Lowest Paying Jobs: Know Before You Move
High salaries grab the headlines, but not every job brings in big money. Before packing your bags, make sure your career field supports the life you want to lead in Finland.
Lowest paying jobs in Finland (gross monthly):
- Delivery drivers – €1,650
- Warehouse workers – €1,700
- Farm workers – €1,750
- Hotel receptionists – €1,800
- Cashiers – €1,850
- Fast food workers – €1,100 (this number seems off, check before accepting such an offer)
- Housekeepers & cleaners – €2,000
- Waiters & bartenders – €2,100
- Retail sales workers – €2,200
- Security guards – €2,300
Lower wages shouldn’t scare you away, as Finland backs up even its lowest earners with a strong social support network. Housing, healthcare, and public services help create a high baseline quality of life. Still, always compare expected salary with your expected expenses to avoid surprises.
Cost of Living in Finland: A Realistic Breakdown
Salary is only half the story. Knowing what everyday life costs helps you decide if moving to Finland’s right for you.
Rent and Housing
- Single person: €1,200/month for a two-bedroom in Helsinki
- Family of four: €2,000/month in Helsinki
Housing is one of the largest monthly costs, especially in the capital.
Utilities and Internet
- Single: €120/month
- Family of four: €200/month
Electricity, heating, water, and solid WiFi are crucial for year-round comfort.
Groceries
- Single: €300/month
- Family of four: €800/month
Shopping local and in bulk can stretch your euros.
Transportation
- Single: €80/month
- Family of four: €200/month
Public transport is efficient, and many skip owning a car in bigger cities.
Healthcare Costs
- Single: €50–200/month
- Family of four: €200–500/month
Most healthcare is heavily subsidized or covered, but private plans or extra coverage may add costs.
Monthly Budget Snapshot
- Single person: €2,000–2,500/month
- Family of four: €3,000–4,500/month
This makes Finland generally more affordable than places like Switzerland or Denmark, but housing in Helsinki can eat up a big chunk of your paycheck.
Skills Finishing Employers Really Want in 2024–2025
You’ll find job opportunities are brightest for those with the right mix of education and in-demand skills:
- IT and software development: AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, and system architecture
- Healthcare and nursing: Main roles in hospitals and elder care
- Engineering: Mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering fields
- Data science and analytics: Decision-making support for every industry
- Renewable energy and environmental sustainability: Supporting green goals and innovation
- Digital marketing and e-commerce: Businesses and brands rush online
Having one or more of these skills makes it much easier to find a high-paying, visa-sponsored position in Finland.
The Best Job Portals for Landing Work in Finland
If you’re ready to job hunt, start at the top Finnish and European portals—many support jobs offering visa sponsorship for international candidates:
- TE Services (Official Finnish public employment services)
- Monster Job Portal (Finland)
- Jobs in Finland
- Duunitori
- EURES Jobs (EU-wide job portal)
- EURO Jobs
- EURO Job Sites
- Experteer (executive jobs)
Each portal lets you filter by field, city, and even visa sponsorship, helping you get closer to your next Finnish adventure.
Need help sharpening your CV for the Finnish market? Book a CV review tailored for international job seekers.
Final Thoughts
Finland offers a clear path for skilled professionals, especially in IT, healthcare, and engineering. Wages compete with other Northern European countries, and the cost of living is fair, even if you’re moving to Helsinki. Whether you’re after career growth, job security, or a higher quality of life, Finland’s steady job market and demand for skilled workers make it a smart move for 2025 and beyond.
If you’re serious about working in Finland, brush up your skills, do your salary homework, and apply through trustworthy job portals. Keep the cost of living in mind and always make sure the numbers add up.
Ready to make the move or want to see more tips about living and working abroad? Check out more resources below:
- Get an unskilled job in Luxembourg (YouTube)
- How to get a work visa for Luxembourg (YouTube)
- How to get a sponsored job in the Netherlands (YouTube)
Got questions about moving to Finland, or want to suggest the next country? Leave a comment below or follow Absolutely Ashika on Instagram for more updates.