Spain average salaries reach record high amid rising labor costs

Average salaries in Spain reached a record high for a second quarter, averaging 2,512.68 euros gross per worker per month, according to data from the National Statistics Institute (INE). This figure represents the highest level for this period since the historical series began in 2000.

Labor costs for companies have also risen by 4% to reach 3,388.15 euros per month per employee, marking 22 consecutive quarters of annual increases. The education sector recorded the highest labor costs, rising 8.8% to 3,416.01 euros per month, followed by real estate activities.

Regarding the minimum wage (SMI), the 2026 increase of 3.1% brings the monthly gross amount to 1,221 euros. While Spain ranks eighth in the EU for its minimum wage levels, Eurofound reports indicate that inflation at 4.3% has significantly eroded purchasing power. After accounting for inflation, the real improvement in the minimum wage was below 1%, trailing behind several Eastern European nations that saw double-digit increases.