Country guide

Working in Iran: Job Market Guide 2026

Get the definitive guide to Iran's job market: essential insights on monthly average salaries (266 USD), employment trends and the economic factors that shape your income, plus the country's largest employers such as National Iranian Oil Company, Iran Khodro, Persian Gulf Petrochemical.

  • Population83,992,953
  • Avg. monthly salary$266
  • Unemployment9.5%
  • Purchasing power26.5 (US = 100)

Welcome to your guide to the Iran job market. Finding the right job or candidate requires solid data. Here you will find key figures on employment, salaries and the economy to support your next career step or recruitment decision in Iran.

Job market overview

Key metricCurrent value
Total population83,992,953 residents
Employment rate39.4%
Unemployment rate9.5%Moderate to higher unemployment – strong, specific skills help you stand out.

With an unemployment rate of 9.5%, Iran has a more balanced labor market. Candidates should highlight specialized skills and experience.

Looking for jobs in Iran? Browse available jobs in our international job search.
Search now

Living & working in Iran: salaries and cost of living

Before relocating or applying for jobs in Iran, consider these key economic factors:

IndicatorValueCompared with the U.S.
Average monthly salary 266 USD 6% of the U.S. averagesignificantly lower
Purchasing power 26.5 weaker (U.S. = 100)

With a purchasing power index of 26.5, the average monthly salary of 266 USD supports a budget-conscious lifestyle in Iran. Always compare an offer with local rents and living costs in the specific city.

Top industries & employers in IR

Leading industryPetroleum, Natural Gas
Growth sectorManufacturing, Petrochemicals
Service sectorServices, Tourism
Major employersNational Iranian Oil Company, Iran Khodro, Persian Gulf Petrochemical

Job seekers will usually find the most openings in Petroleum, Natural Gas, while Manufacturing, Petrochemicals offers growth potential.

Need qualified talent in Iran? Post jobs for free and receive applications directly.
Start hiring

Working in Iran – FAQ

What's the employment situation in Iran?

Iran has a population of about 83,992,953. The employment rate is 39.4%. The unemployment rate currently stands at 9.5%.

Which are the top companies in Iran?

Large employers in Iran include National Iranian Oil Company, Iran Khodro, Persian Gulf Petrochemical.

How far does a salary go in Iran?

The purchasing power index for Iran is 26.5 (U.S. = 100), which means the cost of living should be weighed carefully when comparing job offers.

How can I find jobs in Iran?

Browse the latest international openings on Cityjobs and filter by country or remote work. Employers post directly, and you apply with the employer.

Which industries matter most in Iran?

Petroleum, Natural Gas is the leading industry, while Manufacturing, Petrochemicals is an important growth sector, alongside Services, Tourism.

Data sources & methodology

The figures in this guide are compiled from these public sources:

We aim to update these figures regularly. Employment rates, exchange rates and salaries can change quickly, so please verify important figures with official local sources before making major decisions.
Share guide:
Cities

Top cities and companies across Iran

4 cities
  • Tehran 9,200,000 inhabitants

    CompaniesNational Iranian Oil Company, Iran Khodro, Melli Bank

  • Mashhad 3,060,000 inhabitants

    CompaniesAstan Quds Razavi, Samen Pharmaceutical, Mashhad Metro

  • Isfahan 1,965,000 inhabitants

    CompaniesMobarakeh Steel Company, Isfahan Oil Refinery, Sepahan Oil Company

  • Karaj 1,600,000 inhabitants

    CompaniesIran Tractor Manufacturing Company, Karaj Industrial Zone, Shirin Asal Food Industries

Insights

Latest career & market insights

Expert advice and international market trends to help you navigate the future of work.

Browse all insights
Tech Jobs Are Coming Back — But Not for Everyone Insights
September 27, 2026

Tech Jobs Are Coming Back — But Not for Everyone

Software development hiring is showing signs of recovery in 2026. But new labor-market data reveals that most of the rebound is going to senior and AI-related roles — while entry-level candidates still face a much tougher market.