Swiss Minimum Wage 2025 in Switzerland by Canton: Key Facts
Switzerland does not have a generalized national minimum wage. Instead, minimum wages are set at the cantonal level and regularly adjusted to reflect inflation and socio-economic needs. Below are the key minimum wage rates in 2025.
- Geneva: Highest Minimum Wage in 2025
Geneva leads with a minimum hourly wage of CHF 24.48 as of January 1, 2025. This amount reflects the high cost of living in the canton. Exceptions exist for sectors like agriculture and floriculture, where the hourly rate is CHF 17.99.
- Neuchâtel: Consistent Progression
Neuchâtel has increased its minimum wage to CHF 21.31 per hour in 2025, up from CHF 21.09 in 2024. Specific rates apply in agriculture, viticulture, and horticulture, where the minimum wage is CHF 18.12.
- Jura: A Similar Trend
Jura follows a similar path, raising its minimum hourly wage to CHF 21.40 in 2025. This measure aims to maintain a decent standard of living while supporting the local economy.
- Ticino: Gradual Adjustments
In Ticino, where the cost of living is slightly lower, the minimum wage is set at CHF 19.00 per hour in 2025. This measure protects workers, especially in traditionally lower-paid sectors.
- Basel-City: A Strong Social Policy
Basel-City continues its worker-friendly policies with a minimum hourly wage of CHF 21.00 in 2025. This decision supports residents’ purchasing power in this urban canton.
Why Are Minimum Wages Important in Switzerland?
Swiss minimum wage agreements aim to reduce wage inequalities and secure a decent income for the most vulnerable workers. These wages result from public referendums and intense social debates. Each canton adjusts its minimum threshold based on its unique economic and social context.
What to Expect in the Future?
With persistent inflation and rising living costs, other cantons may introduce or revise minimum wages. Future adjustments will depend on local political decisions and Switzerland’s economic development.
Minimum Wage Agreements in Switzerland: Sector-Specific CCT
Many industries are governed by Collective Labor Agreements (CCT), which define specific minimum wages. These agreements are negotiated between social partners and apply to companies and employees in regulated sectors.
Examples of minimum wages set by CCTs for 2025 include:
- Watchmaking Industry: The median salary is CHF 5,878 per month.
- Building Cleaning in French-Speaking Switzerland: Salary scales depend on professional categories, with increases planned for 2025.
- Bakery, Pastry, and Confectionery: Salary standards for production, sales, and catering staff will see increases between CHF 69 and CHF 164 depending on categories.
In some cantons, legal minimum wages override CCT provisions, while in others, extended CCTs prevail. Employers must ensure compliance with applicable cantonal or sectoral standards.
Swiss Wage Regulations in 2025
The “Swiss minimum wage 2025” results from both cantonal laws and sector-specific CCTs, reflecting the country’s economic and social diversity. Employers and employees must refer to the specific provisions of their canton and industry to understand the applicable minimum wages.
Salary Management Services in Switzerland
RISTER, a fiduciary based in Geneva, offers specialized payroll management services, ensuring compliance with current regulations, including CCTs and cantonal minimum wage laws.
In anticipation of Swiss minimum wage adjustments for 2025, RISTER implements automated systems and advanced software for accurate payroll calculations and efficient salary management. This approach allows businesses to focus on their core activities, confident that payroll management is handled professionally and legally.
Additionally, RISTER ensures confidentiality and data security through strict protective measures. Collaborating with RISTER provides businesses with tailored support, essential for navigating Switzerland’s complex legal and fiscal landscape regarding minimum wage agreements and Swiss wage regulations.
