Blog

Electrical Rates across Europe – Why does it change city to city?

At Eurotas LTD, we know that working across Europe means more than just hopping on a plane — it means adapting to the local cost of living. But did you know that your daily rate is often shaped by the city you’re working in? This is especially true in the Data Centre industry, where skilled labour and reliable sub contractors are in high demand across Europe.

Here are some fun “Did you know” facts to put it into perspective:

Denmark

Housing in Denmark is among the most expensive in Europe? That’s why rates in Copenhagen tend to be higher — because life there costs more. For electricians in a data centre projects, the rate reflects those costs.

Sweden

Sweden isn’t far behind. From Stockholm’s sky-high rent to pricey groceries, it all adds up. That’s why daily rates in specialist trades like electrical work need to be competitive.

Norway

Norway regularly ranks as one of the priciest places to live in Europe. From food to fuel, costs are steep — which explains why Norwegian electrician rates are among the highest per hour in Europe.

Netherlands

Amsterdam’s canals might be charming, but renting near them can drain your wallet. With limited housing and high demand, the cost of labour for large-scale projects like data centres inevitably rises.

Germany

Berlin, once known as a bargain city, is catching up. The boom in housing demand has nudged rates upward for skilled trades, meaning an electrician rate in Berlin is not what it used to be.

France

Working in Paris means factoring in café culture and high living expenses. A croissant might only cost a few euros, but rent will set you back much more — and so project labour rates have to rise to match.

Comparison: Cost of Living vs. Electrician Rates

City	Cost of Living Rank	Typical Electrical Pay Rates (per hour)
Copenhagen	Very High	€35– €70
Amsterdam	High	€32 – €65
Berlin	Rising	€30 – €55
Paris	Very High	€35 – €70
Stockholm	High	€32 – €65
Oslo	Very High	€35 – €75

FAQ: Data Centre Labour Rates in Europe

Why are electrician rates higher in Scandinavia?
Because the cost of living in Denmark, Sweden, and Norway is among the highest in Europe. This directly impacts labour costs and sub-contractor rates for Data Centre projects.

What is the average daily rate for a Data Centre electrician in Europe? Rates vary by city. Scandinavia and Paris tend to be the most expensive, while Berlin and parts of Central Europe are more cost-competitive.

Why do subcontractor costs differ so much between cities?
Local housing, transport, and living expenses drive up the hourly and daily rates for skilled labour and electricians. The same job in Oslo will cost more than in Berlin simply because it costs more to live there.

Final Thought

At Eurotas LTD, we balance these realities to ensure fair and competitive rates across Europe. Whether you’re an electrician, Tester or a QAQC, your skills don’t change when you cross a border — but the rate per hour does, because the cost of living does.

So the next time you see different daily rates from one city to another, you’ll know why: it’s not just about the job, it’s about the city you’re living and working in.

Published: 7 October 2025