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North Macedonia’s cost-effective labor, skilled workforce, and favorable business environment make it an ideal outsourcing destination. Employers looking to hire in the area may wonder, “What is the average salary in North Macedonia?” This information will help them prepare a competitive job offer.
The average monthly salary in North Macedonia is 43,053 Macedonian dinars (MKD), about USD 820. However, wages vary by experience, education, position, industry, and location. Comparing wages in Macedonia to those in other nations worldwide provides additional insight.
This article will explore all aspects of salaries in Macedonia, preparing you for your hiring journey.
What is the Average Salary in North Macedonia?
The average salary in North Macedonia is 43,053 MKD, about $820. The country has been struggling with instability ever since it split from Yugoslavia. Issues include skills mismatches and a large informal economy.
Median Income
The median salary in Macedonia is 39.147 MKD, about $746. Half the country earns higher wages, the other half earns less.
Salary Range
The salary range spans from the lowest to the highest in the country. In North Macedonia, low earners make around 24,016 MKD, about $457 monthly, while high earners make closer to 67,151 USD, about $1279 monthly.
Salary Comparisons in North Macedonia
Average salary provides some insight, but you must also consider how wages vary by position, industry, location, education, and experience. The following sections will explore how these factors impact earnings.
Salary by Position
This salary comparison chart reveals how wages vary by profession.
| Position | Average Monthly Salary (MKD) |
|---|---|
| IT Architect | 155,517 |
| IT Director | 143,803 |
| Lead Developer | 132,183 |
| Managing Director | 118,376 |
| Chief Executive Officer | 117,338 |
| Call Center Director | 114,044 |
| Java Programmer | 96,499 |
| User Experience Expert | 91,538 |
| IT Project Manager | 89,418 |
| IT Tester | 87,184 |
| Hotel Porter | 25,697 |
| Porter, Information Staff | 25,178 |
| Cobbler | 24,812 |
| Technical Staff | 24,704 |
| Concierge | 24,532 |
| Medical Orderly | 23,528 |
| Social Counselor | 23,088 |
| Housekeeper | 22,581 |
| Nursery School Teacher Assistant | 22,567 |
Average Wage in North Macedonia Based on Education
Workers in North Macedonia who achieve high levels of education earn more than those with less education; however, due to a skills mismatch, educated workers often cannot attain the jobs they are skilled for. Many migrate to other countries in search of better opportunities.
Additionally, although educated workers have an advantage, educational access issues exist within the country. The government is working to address these issues, believing it will reduce unemployment rates, increase career prospects, and lead to higher wages.
Salary Comparison by Experience
Experience is also related to higher wages. The Federation of Trade Unions in Macedonia (FTUM) mandates that workers receive a 0.5% salary increase for each year of work experience. Some collective agreements, particularly in the public sector, also include provisions for seniority bonuses.
For example, a contract may stipulate that workers with 10-15 years of experience receive a 3.5 net salary bonus, whereas workers with 15-20 years of experience receive a 4.5 net salary bonus.
Salary Comparison by Location
Location also impacts salaries. Workers in urban areas, such as the capital city of Skopje and other economic hubs like Bitola and Tetovo, earn more than workers in rural areas due to higher living costs and proximity to large companies offering higher-paying job opportunities. Statistics show urban workers in North Macedonia typically earn between 60,000 and 80,000 MKD per month, while rural workers earn between 22,500 and 40,000 MKD.
How Much is Minimum Wage in North Macedonia?
The minimum wage in North Macedonia is currently 24,379 MKD per month (about $430/€396). This rate has been in effect since March 2025.
Under the law, the minimum wage is adjusted every March based on changes in the average salary and cost of living, and it is expected to increase by about 1,500–2,000 MKD in March 2026.
Average Salary in North Macedonia vs. the Rest of the World
The following charts compare salaries in North Macedonia to those in developed, developing, and least developed countries, providing additional insight.
North Macedonia vs. Developed Countries
| Country | Average Salary | Comparison to Average North Macedonia Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Japan | 379,434 Yen (approx. $2,635) | – 225% |
| United Kingdom | 3,000 Euros (approx. $3,116) | – 287% |
| Norway | 50,790 Kroner (approx. $4,700) | – 487% |
| Germany | 4,300 Euros (approx. $4,467) | – 462% |
| Austria | 3,500 Euros (approx. $3,636) | – 350% |
North Macedonia vs. Developing Countries
| Country | Average Salary | Comparison to Average North Macedonia Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Romania | 4,000 RON (approx. $835) | 0% |
| Russia | 73,709 Rubles (approx. $700) | – 14% |
| Albania | 1,500 Euros (approx. $1,550) | – 93% |
| Kazakhstan | 342,082 Tenge (approx. $645) | – 23% |
| Ukraine | 18,000 Hryvnia (approx. $500) | – 60% |
North Macedonia vs. Undeveloped Countries
| Country | Average Salary | Comparison to Average North Macedonia Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Afghanistan | 30,000 Afghanis (approx. $419) | – 90% |
| Philippines | 18,423 PHP (approx. $875) | – 10% |
| Cambodia | 1,000,027 KHR (approx. $250) | – 220% |
| Egypt | 13,244 EGP (approx. $263) | – 207% |
| Pakistan | 45,000 PKR (approx. $150) | – 433% |
North Macedonia is a developing country with an upper-middle-income economy. It is an emerging market that is actively seeking foreign investment and trade. Although it has made significant strides over the past few years, it still faces issues regarding corruption, unemployment, and a large informal sector.
Despite internal issues, North Macedonia has potential for growth through outsourcing opportunities. It offers low labor costs, a skilled workforce, and a business-friendly environment. Many nations refer to it as “Europe’s hidden gem”.
What are the Most Common Outsourced Industries in North Macedonia?
Employers who outsource to North Macedonia will benefit most when focusing on the following industries:
IT Services
North Macedonia offers a strong digital infrastructure, supported by 3G, 4G, and 5G, providing a strong foundation for the IT sector. The government actively supports the industry with various initiatives, including the Public Administration Reform (PAR) Strategy. Many IT companies in North Macedonia focus on exporting their products and services.
BPO
The BPO industry in North Macedonia is experiencing rapid growth. It offers competitive pricing compared to other Western European countries. Its strategic location in the heart of the Balkans makes it a convenient hub for businesses targeting European markets.
Manufacturing
Manufacturing plays a significant role in North Macedonia’s economy. Key sectors include automotive components, textiles, and metal processing. The industry has helped the country attract foreign investments, particularly in its economic free zones.
Conclusion
Macedonia’s low average salaries make it a convenient outsourcing destination. Employers who initiate remote partnerships in the area can benefit from cost savings and premium products and services, while helping the country reach its developmental goals, resulting in positive outcomes for all involved parties.
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