Ireland outpaces EU when it comes to IT salaries
Irish tech roles now command salaries that compete with, and often exceed, those in other key global economies and tech markets, according to the latest Hays Tech Talent Explorer.
While much of the global conversation around artificial intelligence has focused on job displacement, the research highlights how AI is instead reshaping tech roles. Routine and administrative tasks are becoming increasingly automated, allowing professionals to focus on complex, high-impact work.
In Ireland, this shift is contributing to continued salary growth as demand rises for professionals who combine technical expertise with critical thinking, creativity, and decision-making skills.
The research benchmarks Ireland against other key international markets, focusing on salaries in each economy across a range of tech roles. Ireland maintains a significant pay advantage in several key roles, such as Data Engineers and Solutions Architects. When compared to markets like the UK and Germany, Ireland performs strongly, with overall tech salaries in those countries trailing by 17% and 19% respectively.
While the United States remains the global leader in compensation – with average tech salaries reaching approximately €108,387 compared to €81,338 in Ireland – the data reveals a tightening gap in specialised fields such as Data Scientists. The findings suggest Ireland offers employers access to highly skilled technical talent at a more sustainable cost base.
Furthermore, salary benchmarks in Ireland remain closely aligned with major global markets like Australia and Singapore, while contractor day rates rival major hubs including Luxembourg and Hong Kong, reflecting the country’s strategic importance as a centre for global tech operations.
Despite broader economic uncertainty, Irish tech wages continue to be driven by sustained demand for advanced, future-ready skill sets rather than AI-led disruption.
Senior managing director for Hays Ireland Barney Ely said: “Ireland is no longer just a European branch office for major tech companies, it is now a primary engine of global tech innovation. We are seeing a shift where AI is enabling tech professionals to move away from routine tasks and towards work that is more strategic and globally impactful.
“We’ve recently seen layoffs at major players across the tech industry, but the continued strength of salaries demonstrates the resilience of the Irish market.
“For talent, Ireland offers a landscape where technical skills are met with high-value rewards. For employers, the challenge is no longer just finding people – it’s partnering with experts who can navigate an increasingly AI-enhanced environment.”
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