Bulgaria, located in Southeast Europe, has become an attractive destination for foreign workers due to its growing economy, strategic location, and relatively low cost of living. While salaries in Bulgaria are generally lower than in Western Europe, they have been steadily increasing, especially in sectors like IT, finance, and international business.
General Salary Levels in Bulgaria
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The average gross monthly salary in Bulgaria is around €1,050–€1,250, equal to approximately €12,500–€15,000 per year.
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In Sofia, the capital city, salaries are higher, averaging about €1,700 per month.
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Smaller towns and rural regions tend to offer lower wages, usually between €700 and €900 per month.
Salaries for Foreign Workers by Skill Level
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Unskilled or entry-level jobs: Foreign workers in hospitality, agriculture, or manual labor usually earn €500–€750 per month.
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Mid-skilled positions: Office employees, technicians, and customer service staff typically earn €750–€1,250 per month.
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Highly skilled professionals: IT specialists, engineers, and finance experts often earn between €1,250 and €2,000 per month, with higher salaries for those in leadership roles.
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Senior management or niche specialists: In international companies, salaries can exceed €2,000 per month.
Industry-Based Salary Insights
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Information Technology: €1,500–€2,500 monthly.
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Finance and Banking: €1,400–€2,200 monthly.
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Engineering and Manufacturing: €1,200–€1,800 monthly.
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Healthcare (Doctors, Nurses): €900–€1,600 monthly.
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Hospitality and Tourism: €600–€1,000 monthly, often seasonal.
Key Factors Affecting Foreign Worker Salaries
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Salaries are higher in international firms compared to local companies.
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Sofia and large cities offer significantly better pay than rural regions.
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Experience, language proficiency, and specialization play an important role in salary negotiations.
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Bulgaria’s flat 10% income tax allows foreign workers to retain a higher share of their earnings compared to many EU countries.
Foreign workers in Bulgaria can expect salaries ranging from €500 per month for entry-level roles up to €2,500 or more for senior professionals. On average, most foreign employees earn between €750 and €1,500 monthly, with significantly higher earnings in high-demand sectors like IT and finance.