What do people earn in Switzerland?

From baker to banker, Swiss workers earn salaries that must be put into perspective.

Like anywhere in the world, salaries in Switzerland vary depending on factors like education, experience and location. Each year, canton Zurich’s Office for Economy and Labour publishes a guide outlining salaries for nearly every profession imaginable. This year’s 800-page Lohnbuch 2017 (in German) compiles salary data such as minimum suggested wages plus typical salary ranges based on age and experience.

Entry-level or minimum salaries

Monthly salary, based on nationwide recommendations or averages in the first year:

Profession	Monthly salary in CHF
Hairdresser	2,601
Florist	3,800
Graphic designer	3,800
Shop assistant	3,900
Carpenter	4,018
Postal worker	4,031
Baker	4,051
Car mechanic (Zurich)	4,450
Farmer	4,500
Train conductor	4,558
Software developer	4,608
Bus driver	4,858
Dental hygienist	4,930
Footballplayer	5,400
Civil engineer	5,411
Journalist	5,551
Social worker (Zurich)	6,246
Pilot	6,576
Primary school teacher (Zurich)	7,398
Bank credit & risk manager	7,788
Army officer	8,142
Pastor	9,084
Public prosecutor	10,400
Chief hospital physician (Zurich)	12,824
Cabinet member	37,083

While the figures might seem high – especially in some branches – it’s important to remember that Switzerland also has a high cost of living. For example, people spend about a third of their income on rent alone.

swissinfo.ch/sm