Barcelona is the economic, cultural and administrative heart of Catalonia, a creative, cosmopolitan and innovative city known for its quality of life. With a highly skilled workforce and a growing reputation as a hub for innovation, the city continues to attract companies in sectors such as information technology, digital marketing, and biotechnology. These factors combine to create a wealth of opportunities for both local and international talent.
Local economy in Barcelona
Barcelona is Spain's second-largest city, home to its largest port and chief commercial and industrial center. Important sectors include shipbuilding, pharmaceuticals, automotive, construction, electronics, appliance manufacturing and chemicals.
Tourism is also a hugely important economic pillar. In 2024, 15.5 million tourists stayed in Barcelona´s hotels and homes, spending almost 100 euros per day in the city.
Looking to the future, Barcelona wants to establish itself as the scientific capital of Spain and one of Europe's leading scientific centers. The Strategic Plan for Science and Innovation 2024-2027 aims to ensure that the city's scientific and technological capacity translates into tangible improvements for society. Other objectives include continuing the advance toward climate neutrality, promoting and expanding the role of women in scientific and technological fields and consolidating its position as a capital of biotechnology and health sciences.
The labor market in Barcelona
One of the key industries driving the labor market in Barcelona is tourism. There is a high demand for jobs in the hospitality, tourism and service sectors. Hotels, restaurants and bars are just a few examples of businesses that thrive in this tourism-centered economy.
Barcelona is also known for its manufacturing sector, particularly in the automotive and textile industries. The city is home to several automobile manufacturers, and the textile industry has a long history dating back to the industrial revolution. Many international companies have chosen Barcelona as a base for their manufacturing operations, providing employment opportunities for skilled workers.
Moreover, Barcelona has a thriving technology and innovation sector. The Catalan capital houses numerous startups, tech companies and research institutions, attracting a talented pool of professionals in the fields of IT, software development and digital marketing.
A strong emphasis on education and knowledge-based industries also supports the labor market in Barcelona. The city boasts prestigious universities, research centers and educational institutions, producing a highly educated workforce.
Good to know:
Barcelona's unemployment rate as of the fourth quarter of 2024 was 7.12%, notably lower than the national average of 10.7%.
Wages in Barcelona
According to the Municipal Data Office of Barcelona City Council, the average annual salary for workers in Barcelona is 33,837 euros gross.
A person who lives and works in Barcelona needs a salary of at least 1,516.73 euros a month to cover basic expenses and live decently, according to calculations by the Area Metropolitana de Barcelona (AMB) in 2024.
Labor laws in Barcelona
According to the law, the working week in Barcelona cannot be more than 40 hours, which can be further reduced based on specific circumstances or collective agreements.
Another significant aspect is the protection of workers' rights, including fair wages. The national government determines the minimum wage in Barcelona, ensuring that employees receive a decent income to meet their basic needs.Additionally, the law guarantees annual leave for workers, typically around 30 calendar days per year (including weekends). This amounts to 22 days of paid leave for full-time workers.
Barcelona's labor laws also emphasize the importance of health and safety in the workplace. Employers must adhere to specific standards, ensuring a safe and healthy working environment. Regular inspections and enforcement of safety regulations by the authorities help prevent accidents and occupational hazards.
Furthermore, these labor laws encourage collective bargaining and the formation of trade unions. Barcelona recognizes the rights of employees to join a union, giving them a platform to voice their concerns and negotiate with employers for better working conditions and benefits.
Good to know:
Barcelona's public holidays are as follows:
1 January New Year's Day, 6 January Epiphany / Three Kings' Day, 18 April Good Friday, 21 April Easter Monday, 1 May Labour Day, 9 June Whit Monday / Pentecost Monday, 24 June Sant Joan / Midsummer solstice, 15 August Assumption of Mary, 11 September Catalan National Day, 24 September Mare de Déu de la Mercè, 1 November All Saints' Day, 6 December Spanish Constitution Day, 8 December Feast of the Immaculate Conception, 25 December Christmas and 26 December Boxing Day.
Useful link:
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.
Comments