What is the Average?
According to the latest data from the Central Statistics Office (CSO), the average weekly earning in Ireland is approximately €921. This translates to a gross annual salary of around €47,900.
The "Average" (Mean) is often skewed higher by high earners in the tech and pharma sectors. The Median Salary (the wage of the person exactly in the middle) is a better reflection of reality, typically sitting closer to €43,000 per year.
Average Salary by Sector
Your industry is the biggest factor in determining your pay. Ireland has a "two-speed" economy: high wages in MNCs (Tech/Pharma) and lower wages in domestic services.
| Sector / Role | Weekly Avg | Annual Avg |
|---|---|---|
| IT & Information | €1,780 | €92,500 |
| Accountancy & Finance | €1,350 | €70,200 |
| Education (Teachers) | €1,150 | €59,800 |
| Public Administration | €1,100 | €57,200 |
| Construction | €950 | €49,400 |
| Retail & Wholesale | €680 | €35,300 |
| Hospitality | €440 | €22,800 |
* Figures are estimates based on CSO Earnings trends projected for 2026.
Accountant & Teacher Salary Ireland
Two of the most searched professions in Ireland have very specific pay structures. Here is what you can expect:
Accountant Salary Ireland
The accountant salary in Ireland varies significantly depending on qualification (ACCA/ACA/CIMA) and location. A "Part-Qualified" accountant typically earns between €35,000 and €45,000. However, a "Newly Qualified" accountant in Dublin often sees a jump to €55,000+, with Senior Finance Managers earning well over €80,000.
Teacher Salary Ireland
The teacher salary in Ireland is determined by a strict public sector pay scale set by the Department of Education. A new entrant Primary or Secondary teacher starts at approximately €42,000 (including allowances). Salaries increase incrementally with years of service, with experienced teachers earning upwards of €75,000.
Earn less than average?
If you are on an hourly wage, ensure you are at least getting the legal minimum.
Check Minimum Wage Rates →Salary by Age Group
It is normal to earn less at the start of your career. Earnings typically peak between the ages of 40 and 49 as experience accumulates.
- 15-24 Years: €23,000 - €28,000 (Entry level / Part-time)
- 25-34 Years: €40,000 - €45,000 (Career building)
- 35-44 Years: €52,000 - €58,000 (Management / Senior)
- 45-54 Years: €58,000+ (Peak earning potential)
What is a "Good" Salary in Ireland?
A "good" salary depends entirely on where you live. Housing costs in Dublin are significantly higher than in rural counties.
- In Dublin: A salary of €60,000+ is generally considered comfortable for a single person renting an apartment.
- Outside Dublin: A salary of €45,000+ can provide a similar standard of living in counties like Cork, Limerick, or Galway due to lower rent prices.
Common Questions
What is the average salary in Ireland for 2026?
The average full-time salary in Ireland is approximately €48,000 to €52,000 per year, depending on the sector. However, the median salary (the middle value) is often lower, around €43,000.
What is the minimum wage vs average wage?
The minimum wage (approx €27k/year) is the legal floor. The average wage (approx €48k/year) is what the statistical average worker earns. There is a significant gap between the two.