Best Countries for IT Jobs in 2024

Information Technology is an important component of modern society and it's no surprise that IT professionals are in high demand all around the world. 

With the rapid advancements in technology, the global job market is more competitive each year and many countries offer excellent opportunities for professionals in this field. 

If you're considering international opportunities, using an employer of record can help manage employment tasks in various countries without the need to establish a local entity.

We've done research to identify the best countries for IT jobs based on various factors such as salary, employment rate, digitalization level, work culture, and quality of life.

Whether you're an IT professional or a recent graduate, this article will provide you with valuable insights. Let’s discover the top destinations for IT jobs in 2024.

USA

The USA is a global leader in the IT industry, with Silicon Valley as the world's largest hub for innovation and technology.  This country has created the biggest technology companies in the world such as Google, Meta, Apple, and Microsoft, which keep reaching new levels and changing people’s way of living worldwide.

The USA is known for offering one of the highest salaries for IT jobs in the world.  The average annual salary for a software developer in the USA is around $105,000, which is higher than in most other countries. 

The employment rate in the USA for IT jobs is also high. The Information Technology (IT) job market has experienced growth over the past two years. In 2022, the industry added 267,000 new jobs, which followed the addition of 213,000 jobs in 2021.

In general, the USA is known for its fast-paced and competitive work environment, with long working hours and a focus on productivity. The USA offers a high quality of life for IT professionals, providing protection from surveillance. The cost of living can be both high and low depending on the state and city, but salaries generally reflect this.

Switzerland

Switzerland is also among the global leaders in IT. According to the global innovation index Switzerland is ranked as one of the most innovative countries. 

Switzerland has a well-developed telecommunications infrastructure, with high-speed internet and widespread access to mobile networks. 

At the same time, Switzerland has a highly educated and skilled workforce, with many holding degrees in computer science, engineering, and related fields, that provides a solid foundation for the IT industry of the country. Here are several world-renowned research institutions, such as the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zurich) and the Paul Scherrer Institute, that conduct research in a variety of fields, including IT, and help to drive innovation and growth in the country's tech industry.

The yearly average salary for IT in Switzerland is €103,886 according to Glassdoor. IT jobs in Bern, Zurich, and Geneva offer some of Europe's highest salaries for tech workers. Employees in the IT sector enjoy good benefits, including health insurance, paid vacation time, and retirement plans in most tech companies. 

Additionally, Switzerland has a high standard of living, excellent healthcare, and a safe and stable political environment making the country an attractive location for both IT professionals and companies looking to establish a presence in Europe.

Singapore

Singapore is a leading country for technology and innovation in Asia due to its business-friendly environment that attracts major companies. 

Singapore has a high level of digitalization with one of the fastest internet speeds in the world, according to the digital ranking 2022 report, Singapore is the 4th in the top. 

Apart from that it has a fast-growing technology industry. The country is investing a lot in digital infrastructure and emerging technologies, such as AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.

Singapore offers good salaries to IT specialists with an average salary range of €58230 per year according to Glassdoor.  At the same time has a strong work culture, with a focus on efficiency, punctuality, and professionalism. Many companies offer flexible work arrangements and wellness programs.

The country is home to major tech companies such as Grab, Lazada, and Sea Group. It also has a thriving startup ecosystem, with many innovative tech startups and unicorns emerging in recent years.

All these make Singapore to be a desirable destination for IT professionals.

Canada

Canada offers a promising landscape for IT job seekers with cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal which are major hubs for technology and innovation.

At the same time, this country is home to some of the world's top IT companies, including Shopify, BlackBerry, OpenText, and Hootsuite among others. These companies offer a range of job opportunities and have contributed significantly to the growth of the IT industry in Canada.

The average salary for IT jobs in Canada is relatively high compared to other industries, with a median salary of around $73,193 per year.

According to the Canadian government, employment in the IT industry is projected to grow by 2.3% annually until 2026, creating approximately 216,000 new jobs.

In order to promote and encourage IT, the government allocates 2% of the country's Gross domestic product.With high-speed internet and advanced technology infrastructure, Canada is placed in the top 10 countries according to the digital ranking 2022 report.  

It is also one of the best countries in the world in terms of quality of life. Employers in Canada tend to prioritize the well-being of their employees, offering benefits such as flexible work hours, paid time off, and health insurance. Additionally, the diverse cultural landscapes and natural beauty of the country provide ample opportunities for leisure and recreation.

Australia

Australia is an attractive country for IT professionals as well. 

The salary for an IT professional in Australia is relatively high, with an average annual salary of around $57,195, according to the payscale. Australia has around a 3.5% unemployment rate, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, which indicates that there is a strong demand for IT professionals in the country, a positive sign for job seekers.

Australia has a relaxed and friendly work culture. Many companies offer flexible work arrangements, such as working from home or part-time work among others There is also a strong emphasis on collaboration and teamwork.

There are many popular IT companies in Australia, including Atlassian, Canva, and Freelancer.com. These companies offer opportunities for IT professionals to work on innovative projects and contribute to cutting-edge technology. Australia has a high level of digitalization. The government is investing in digital infrastructure, such National Broadband Network (NBN), which is improving access to high-speed internet across the country.

Overall, Australia is among the top countries for IT professionals, with a strong healthcare system, excellent education, and some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world.

The United Kingdom

The UK is a major player in the tech industry, with cities like London, Manchester, and Cambridge that are major tech hubs. Salaries for IT professionals are competitive in the UK.

According to Glassdoor the average salary per year for an IT professional is €47,151.47. The employment rate in the UK's IT industry is generally strong. There are many job opportunities available for skilled professionals.

The UK has a high level of digitalization investing heavily in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and cybersecurity. 

Popular IT companies located in the country such as Microsoft, Amazon, Google, IBM, etc., as well as new innovative companies emerging in recent years. 

The UK is a desirable place to live and work, with a high standard of living, diverse culture, and excellent public services.

Germany

Germany is a forefront destination for IT professionals looking for a rewarding career. 

The average salary for IT jobs in Germany is relatively high, with some of the highest-paying positions being in software development and data science. According to Payscale, the average salary for a software engineer in Germany is around € 50,641 per year, while a data scientist can expect to earn around €55,919 per year.

The employment rate in the IT sector in Germany is generally good. According to a report by the German Federal Employment Agency, the IT sector is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the country, with high demand for skilled workers.

Germany is a highly digitalized country. The government has launched several initiatives to promote digitalization in various industries, including healthcare, culture, manufacturing, and transportation. 

There are some of the world's largest and most successful tech companies, including SAP, Siemens,  Deutsche Telekom, and Rocket Internet.

The work culture in Germany is efficient and structured, with a focus on results and productivity. However, many companies offer flexible working arrangements and generous vacation time. Cities such as Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg offer a vibrant cultural scene, and there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities in the countryside.

Germany is known for its high standard of living, characterized by outstanding healthcare, education, public transportation infrastructure, and a dynamic and innovative environment but also for one of the highest tax rates in Europe.

France

France is a country with a well-established and growing IT industry, offering numerous job opportunities for IT professionals.

The IT sector in France is centered around major cities such as Paris, Lyon, and Toulouse, which are home to numerous companies specializing in software development, web development, data analysis, and other related fields.

There are several major IT companies located in France, including Capgemini, Atos, Dassault Systèmes, and Ubisoft.

IT professionals in France are generally well-compensated. The average salary for a software engineer in France is around €42,854 per year, depending on experience and location. Salaries for other IT jobs, such as data scientists or cybersecurity professionals, can be even higher.

France is considered one of the most digitally advanced countries in Europe. The French government has implemented several initiatives to promote digital transformation, including investing in high-speed broadband networks and supporting startups in the tech sector.

French work culture places a high value on work-life balance and job security. Employees typically have strong legal protections, including mandatory paid time off and strict labor laws. 

France offers a high quality of life, however, the cost of living in France can be relatively high, particularly in cities like Paris.

Japan

Japan is known worldwide as a highly advanced country, especially in the IT industry. It is renowned for producing cutting-edge technology such as mobile phones, televisions, gaming consoles, robots, and many others.

Japan is home to some of the world's largest and most successful technology companies, like  Sony, Panasonic, Fujitsu, Toshiba, Hitachi, and NEC.

The country is known for its high level of technological development, making it a world leader in areas such as robotics, automation, and electronics. Japan ranks among the top 30 countries in the world for digital competitiveness, according to the digital ranking 2022 report.

The average salary for IT professionals in Japan is relatively high, with the average annual income for an IT employee being around 51127.08 Eur per year. Salaries can vary depending on the experience, skills, and position of the employee.

The work culture in Japan is unique, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and diligence. The work hours are often long, with many employees working late into the night. However, the work environment is highly organized with clear hierarchies and well-defined roles.

Competitive salary, the highly developed technology industry, and the high quality of life make Japan one of the top countries for IT jobs in 2023, even though, it is important to mention that the work culture can be demanding, so it is essential to research and understands the cultural norms before pursuing opportunities in Japan.

A Comparative Look at Top IT Countries by Digital Ranking and IT Jobs Salary Range

Now that we know which are the top countries for an IT job in 2023,  in terms of salaries, level of digitization, quality of life, and other factors, we suggest you take a look at the following charts that highlight the top IT countries by digital ranking position and IT jobs salary range.

The first chart compares the salary range for IT jobs in the countries listed above. This data is based on average salaries for various IT positions.

According to the chart, Switzerland and the United States offer the highest salaries for IT jobs, with an average range of $100,000 to $120,000 per year.  Canada also offers high IT salaries, with average ranges of $70,000 to $90,000 per year. They are followed by Singapore, Australia, and Japan with annual average ranges of $5000 to $65000. Next in the line are Germany, the United Kingdom, and France with an average range of  $45,000 to $55,000 per year.

The second chart lists the top countries by their digital ranking position, as measured by the World Digital Competitiveness Center (IMD). This index takes into account factors such as internet access, e-government services, and cybersecurity, among others.

Although Denmark is not among the best countries for IT Jobs, it ranks first, followed by the United States. Other countries in the top 10 include Singapore, Switzerland, and Canada. In the top 20 are classified as Australia, the United Kingdom, and Germany. France is in the 22nd position, and Japan ranks 29th. 

The two charts offer a comparative look at the top IT countries by digital ranking position and IT jobs salary range.

What about opportunities for IT jobs in emerging countries? Are these destinations equally attractive for IT jobs as developed ones? The answer is YES. Why? Let's find out.

Top 7 Emerging Countries for IT Jobs

Emerging countries could be also a good option if you are thinking of working in the IT sector. 

This is for a number of reasons such as competitive salaries vs lower cost of living, the convenient time zone for working with clients from different parts of the world, government support, and growing demand for IT services.

Here is a list of emerging countries that deserve attention if you plan to work in IT.

China

We shall begin our ranking by positioning China precisely at the intersection of our two top lists, considering that China is a complex country with an emerging economy in some ways, but it is also a developed country in others.

Thus, China finds itself at a crossroads between developed and emerging nations with a number of advantages for IT workers.

Salaries for IT workers in China are competitive but can vary depending on experience, skills, and location. Professionals in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai typically earn higher salaries than those in smaller cities. According to a recent survey by Glassdoor, the average salary for an IT specialist in China is $50,000 USD per year. 

China is one of the world's most digitalized countries. The government invested in modern technologies, such as 5G, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT).

IT professionals work long hours but are also well compensated for their time. The quality of life depends on different factors such as location and job. But it is known that major cities offer a high standard of living, for a high cost.

If you choose China, you should know that knowledge of Mandarin is beneficial as many work environments require it, although some international tech companies may use English.

Overall, China is a great place to work as an IT professional. 

India

India is another top emerging country for IT jobs. The average salary for IT professionals in India is 5,700 - 6,284 USD per year, which is significantly lower than in developed countries, but fairly competitive for the region. 

80% of the population has access to the Internet, which means a high level of digitization, and this is all thanks in part to the government's Digital India initiative, which promotes the use of technology in all aspects of life.

India's collaborative and supportive work culture provides IT professionals with training and development opportunities that help provide their employees with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. Quality of life in India is generally good with a low cost of living and high employment rates.

Brazil

Brazil is also among the top emerging countries for IT professionals. 

According to Brazil - ICT the local IT sector employs more than 2 million professionals, and this number will increase in the coming years.

According to Payscale the average salary for an IT professional in Brazil is $8,354. USD/per year, which is higher than the average salary in the same industry in India.

Brazil has also one of the highest internet penetration rates (77.87% in 2022) in the world, being the world's fifth-largest online market and the second most advanced country in the world in terms of digital governance.

With a good quality of life, a wide range of cultural activities, and the most beautiful beaches and rainforests, Brazil is a place where IT professionals are dedicated to their jobs but also value work-life balance and enjoy spending time with their families.

Mexico

Mexico is next on the list of emerging countries worthy of attention. With a warm climate and rich culture, IT professionals can enjoy a pleasant working environment. 

According to Glassdoor, the average salary for IT professionals in Mexico is around $20,859 per year which is obviously lower than in developed countries like the United States and the United Kingdom. But let’s not forget, that the cost of living in Mexico is also much lower.

The employment rate for IT professionals in Mexico is very high, at around 95%. The country has a young and tech-savvy population, and the government is investing in infrastructure and education eager to support the growth of the digital economy.

Poland

Poland leads the list of emerging countries for IT jobs. IT salaries in Poland are competitive, with an average annual salary of around 26,000 - 28,000 USD. However, these may vary based on experience, skills, and the specific role of the position.

Poland is a member of the European Union, which means that IT professionals who are citizens of other EU member states can work in Poland without a visa. It is also a very English-friendly country, with over 70% of the population speaking English.

A number of multinational IT companies are engaged in Poland, such as Google, Microsoft, and IBM. Poland is also one of the most digitized countries in Central and Eastern Europe, having the potential to quickly become the fastest emerging technology hub.

Romania 

Romania ranks among the leading emerging countries for opportunities in the IT sector. 

According to SalaryExplorer, the average salary for an IT professional in Romania is 20,000 USD per year. Even though it is still lower than the average salary in Western Europe.

The cost of living in Romania is also relatively low compared to other European countries. However, the country has a strong education system and a good healthcare system accessible to all citizens.

A high level of digitalization, the opportunity to work on international projects, and access to a variety of training and development programs make it a good place to live and work for IT professionals.

Vietnam

Vietnam is included in the top emerging countries for IT jobs, being one of the fastest-growing digital economies in the world. 

The average salary for IT professionals in Vietnam is lower than in developed countries, however, it has been rising rapidly in recent years. According to SalaryExplorer, it is about 8665.59 USD per year.

The employment rate for IT professionals in Vietnam is very high, due to the strong demand for IT skills from diverse companies. Vietnam is known for its strong work ethic and collaborative environment. 

The quality of life is high, with relatively low living costs and a supportive government of the tech industry. The country is also welcoming and enjoyable due to its beautiful landscapes, delicious cuisine, and generally safe environment for IT specialists.

The list can be continued as well by other emerging countries with growing IT sectors such as Turkey, Argentina, South Africa, South Korea, Chile, Hungary, Czech Republic, and more.

All these countries provide various opportunities for IT professionals, however before making a decision research the region, job market, cost of living, and visa requirements, political and economic stability. It's important to stay informed before making a move!

Is a Career in the IT Industry a Viable Option? Pros and Cons Explored

The IT industry can be a good career path for many people, however, it has its own set of advantages and disadvantages To that end, we've put together a list of pros and cons so you can decide for yourself if careers in Information Technology are right for you.

Pros:

• Good salary: IT jobs typically offer competitive salaries and benefits packages.
• Flexibility: Many IT jobs offer flexibility in terms of working hours and location, with the possibility of remote work and flexible schedules.
• Continuous learning: The IT industry is constantly evolving and offers opportunities for continuous learning and skill development.
• High demand for skilled IT professionals and this demand is expected to continue growing in the future.

Cons:

• Jobs in the IT industry are stressful. There are a lot of deadlines and high pressure, and you have to deal with a lot of people.
• Constant change: The IT industry is constantly changing and evolving, which means that IT professionals must be able to adapt quickly and continuously learn new skills.
• Technical knowledge required: Many IT jobs require a high level of technical knowledge, which can be challenging for those without a strong background in technology.
• High competition: With the high demand for IT professionals comes high competition for jobs, especially in certain specializations.

Generally, the IT industry can be a good career path for those who are interested in technology, enjoy continuous learning, and are willing to adapt to change. 

Wrapping Up

These were the countries that according to statistics and research are the best for IT jobs.

However, some criteria that were not included could be more important for you. 

This is why, we encourage you not only to take this top into consideration, but make your own list of favorite countries based on your personal and professional priorities.