Welcome to your guide to the Netherlands 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 Netherlands.
Job market overview
| Key metric | Current value |
|---|---|
| Total population | 17,134,873 residents |
| Employment rate | 65.4% |
| Unemployment rate | 3.5%Low unemployment – employers often compete for skilled staff. |
With an unemployment rate of 3.5%, Netherlands has a tight labor market. Skilled professionals are usually in demand.
Living & working in Netherlands: salaries and cost of living
Before relocating or applying for jobs in Netherlands, consider these key economic factors:
| Indicator | Value | Compared with the U.S. |
|---|---|---|
| Average monthly salary | 3,609 USD | 80% of the U.S. averagemoderately lower |
| Purchasing power | 85.6 | slightly weaker (U.S. = 100) |
With a purchasing power index of 85.6, the average monthly salary of 3,609 USD supports comfortable living standards in Netherlands. Always compare an offer with local rents and living costs in the specific city.
Top industries & employers in NL
| Leading industry | Agriculture |
| Growth sector | Manufacturing |
| Service sector | Financial Services, IT |
| Major employers | Royal Dutch Shell, Unilever, ING Group |
Job seekers will usually find the most openings in Agriculture, while Manufacturing offers growth potential.
Working in Netherlands – FAQ
What's the employment situation in Netherlands?
Netherlands has a population of about 17,134,873. The employment rate is 65.4%. The unemployment rate currently stands at 3.5%.
Which are the top companies in Netherlands?
Large employers in Netherlands include Royal Dutch Shell, Unilever, ING Group.
How far does a salary go in Netherlands?
The purchasing power index for Netherlands is 85.6 (U.S. = 100), which means the cost of living should be weighed carefully when comparing job offers.
How can I find jobs in Netherlands?
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 Netherlands?
Agriculture is the leading industry, while Manufacturing is an important growth sector, alongside Financial Services, IT.
Data sources & methodology
The figures in this guide are compiled from these public sources:
- Employment & economic data: World Bank Indicators
- Cost of living & salaries: Numbeo Cost of Living Database
