Spain and Türkiye are among the countries with the lowest earnings for workers in the tourism sector, despite being some of the top tourist destinations in Europe and worldwide.
According to an analysis by Tourism Databank based on data from the Spanish National Statistics Institute (INE) and the Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK), workers in the tourism sector in Spain and Türkiye have the lowest earnings.
Lowest earning tourism workers
As per the 2023 estimates, the average gross monthly salary in the hospitality industry is around $1500 in Spain, while it is about $750 in Türkiye. In both countries, tourism workers are the lowest-earning employees, making 40-45% less than the national average wage.
Tourism workers in both countries are in a position akin to "slavery," with slightly better earnings in Spain.
Food and beverage staff
Joining the food and beverage staff requires meticulousness and discipline. However, waiters, restaurant staff, and unskilled waiters are among the lowest-paid workers in France.
European context
In Europe, alongside the information and communication sector, and financial and insurance activities, the hospitality and food services sectors are among the lowest-paying sectors in each EU member state.
