20 countries with the highest minimum wages in 2025

As economies shift and the cost of living soars, fair wages have become a pressing global concern. For workers around the world, minimum wages can mean the difference between financial security and daily struggle.

In 2025, the global wage landscape continues to evolve, with certain countries setting the bar high. Some nations have stepped up, ensuring their citizens earn enough to maintain a decent standard of living, while others lag behind, leaving workers vulnerable to economic hardship.

According to data compiled from Playroll’s latest ranking, minimum net monthly wages around the globe range from as low as $46 in Nigeria to as high as $3,254 in Luxembourg. Here are the 20 countries with the highest minimum wage standards.

1. Luxembourg

A consistent leader in global wage rankings, Luxembourg maintains its position at the top, offering workers a minimum wage of $3,254 per month. Its strong economy, bolstered by finance and technology sectors, allows workers to enjoy high earnings. However, the high cost of living somewhat offsets these gains.

2. Australia

Australia’s robust labor laws and strong union presence contribute to its impressive minimum wage of $3,698 per month. Despite its relatively high cost of living, Australian workers benefit from a wage structure that ensures they maintain a reasonable quality of life.

3. Netherlands

Known for its worker-friendly policies, the Netherlands continues to prioritize employee welfare. With a strong social safety net and progressive labor laws, minimum wage earners here enjoy financial security, receiving $2,326 per month compared to many of their European counterparts.

4. Ireland

Ireland’s booming economy and investment-friendly policies make it one of the best places to earn a decent wage. The government consistently reviews and adjusts wages, with workers now earning a minimum of $2,282 per month to keep up with inflation and the rising cost of living.

5. United Kingdom

Despite Brexit-related economic fluctuations, the UK maintains a solid minimum wage of $2,230 per month. The government has made efforts to ensure wages keep up with living expenses, providing relief for low-income earners.

6. Belgium

Belgium offers one of the highest wages in Europe, with a minimum wage of $1,955 per month, thanks to a strong union presence and government-backed policies. Its balanced approach ensures that workers receive fair compensation.

7. Germany

Germany introduced a statutory minimum wage in 2015 and has consistently increased it to reflect economic realities. Workers now benefit from a minimum wage of $1,921 per month, supported by a robust economy and strong labor protections.

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8. France

French workers enjoy a relatively high minimum wage of $1,747 per month, reinforced by the country’s strong labor unions and social welfare programs. The wage structure helps counterbalance the country’s high cost of living, particularly in cities like Paris.

9. New Zealand

New Zealand prioritizes fair pay, ensuring that workers earn enough to sustain a comfortable lifestyle. With a strong focus on economic balance, the government frequently revises wage structures, setting the minimum wage at $3,330 per month to reflect inflation.

10. Canada

Canada does not have a national minimum wage but allows provinces to set their own. Ontario leads with one of the highest minimum wages, reaching up to $2,650 per month, ensuring that workers in the region earn a livable income.

11. Spain

Spain has made significant strides in increasing its minimum wage over the years, now at $1,381 per month. Although the cost of living varies across regions, the increase ensures a better standard of living for many workers.

12. South Korea

South Korea’s economic growth has enabled steady wage increases. The government continuously adjusts the minimum wage to support workers, with the latest figure standing at $1,500 per month, especially benefiting those in major cities like Seoul, where living costs are higher.

13. Japan

Despite having a lower minimum wage than some Western countries, Japan maintains a stable economy with relatively affordable living costs in certain regions. The government periodically reviews wage policies, currently setting the minimum at $1,170 per month to align with economic trends.

14. Slovenia

A standout among Eastern European nations, Slovenia offers one of the highest minimum wages in the region, currently at $1,074 per month. Strong labor policies and an improving economy contribute to this steady rise.

15. Poland

Poland’s economic transformation in recent years has resulted in an increased minimum wage. While still lower than in Western Europe, it remains one of the highest in Central and Eastern Europe at $746 per month.

16. Lithuania

Lithuania’s minimum wage has steadily climbed as the country integrates further with the European Union’s economic policies. The government aims to bridge the wage gap between Eastern and Western Europe, setting the minimum wage at $730 per month.

17. Portugal

Portugal’s recent wage reforms have significantly improved worker pay, now reaching $760 per month. While still behind some Western European nations, the increase reflects a commitment to economic growth and worker welfare.

18. Greece

After years of economic challenges, Greece has steadily increased its minimum wage to support workers and stabilize the labor market. The current wage stands at $780 per month, aimed at counteracting years of financial struggles.

19. Estonia

Estonia’s growing tech sector and economic policies have led to an improved wage structure, currently set at $725 per month. The government continues to focus on labor market growth and wage sustainability.

20. Czech Republic

The Czech Republic rounds out the list with a steadily increasing minimum wage of $700 per month. While still modest compared to Western Europe, it reflects the country’s economic progress and commitment to worker well-being.