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Welcome to your comprehensive guide to the Portugal job market. Finding the right job or candidate requires solid data. We provide the latest statistics on employment, salaries, and economic indicators, empowering you to make informed decisions about your next career step or recruitment strategy in Portugal.
Job Market Overview: Employment Statistics in Portugal
Understanding Portugal's job market is crucial for both job seekers and employers. The country's current employment indicators show:
| Key Metric | Current Status |
|---|---|
| Total Population | 10.196.707 residents |
| Employment Rate | 55.9% (below OECD average) |
| Unemployment Rate | 5.9% (moderately competitive market) |
These Portugal employment statistics reveal a balanced labor market where candidates should highlight specialized skills. The 55.9% employment rate suggests moderate job availability across sectors.
Living & Working in Portugal: Economic Insights
Before relocating or applying for jobs in Portugal, consider these key economic factors:
| Economic Indicator | Value | Comparison to U.S. |
|---|---|---|
| Average Monthly Salary | 1.147,84 USD | 25% of U.S. average (significantly lower) |
| Purchasing Power | 61.8 | moderate compared to U.S. (100) |
With 61.8 purchasing power, salaries in Portugal provide adequate but budget-conscious lifestyles. The average monthly salary of 1.147,84 USD is particularly attractive in the Agriculture sector.
Top Industries & Job Opportunities in PT
Portugal's thriving job market spans these key sectors:
| Leading Industry | Agriculture (growing at 5% annually) |
| Emerging Sector | Textiles, Manufacturing (25% of workforce) |
| Service Sector | Tourism, Services (60% of GDP) |
| Major Employers | EDP, Galp Energia, Jerónimo Martins (hiring year-round) |
Job seekers should focus on Agriculture for the most opportunities, while Textiles, Manufacturing offers growth potential. Major companies like EDP, Galp Energia, Jerónimo Martins frequently post openings for skilled professionals.
Data Sources & Methodology
The statistical data (Population, Employment, Economic Indicators) used in this guide is compiled from the following authoritative sources:
- Employment & Economic Data: World Bank Indicators
- Cost of Living & Salaries: Numbeo Cost of Living Database
- Proprietary Data: Analysis derived from expert interviews and Cityjobs.info internal salary research.
Disclaimer: Data Volatility Note
We strive to update all statistics and figures annually. However, due to the nature of global economics, data like employment rates, exchange values, and average salaries can change rapidly due to political events, economic shifts, or unforeseen crises. Always verify critical figures with local governmental or financial institutions before making major decisions.
CityJobs bridges the gap between job seekers and employers in Portugal, creating a more accessible and inclusive job market for all.

1. What's the employment situation in Portugal?
With a population of 10,196,707 and an employment rate of 55.9%, Portugal offers a growing job market. The unemployment rate currently stands at 5.9%.
2. Which are the top companies in Portugal?
The leading employers in Portugal include EDP, Galp Energia, Jerónimo Martins. These companies offer diverse opportunities across multiple sectors.
3. How far does salary go in Portugal?
The purchasing power ratio in Portugal is 61.8, meaning cost of living should be carefully considered when evaluating job offers.
4. How can I find jobs in Portugal?
Search our listings filtered for Portugal. Focus on industries where EDP, Galp Energia, Jerónimo Martins are active, and consider that the 55.9% employment rate suggests moderate competition for positions.
5. What should I know about working in Portugal?
With EDP, Galp Energia, Jerónimo Martins as major employers, the job market tends to favor Textiles, Manufacturing and Tourism, Services.