Salary Survey Belgium 2026

Get the industry insights: Your 2026 salary guide for hiring and jobs in Belgium 

Belgium’s jobs market is constantly moving, and we have the inside knowledge. We don’t just help you keep up – we make sure you stay one step ahead with Belgium's most comprehensive, data-led salary benchmarking tool.​

Our Salary guide is your definitive guide to what’s happening in your industry, and where it’s heading next. We provide the facts and analyses to take bold decisions, fine-tune the next steps in your career search and outsmart your competition when it comes to talent attraction and retention.​

From our Antwerp, Brussels, Ghent, Groot-Bijgaarden, and Zaventem offices, we offer salary and market insights for permanent and temporary positions in Belgium, across a variety of disciplines.​

Knowledge is power

Informed by real-world market data, analysis and insights, our Salary Survey leaves no stone unturned to reveal your industry’s:

• Trends to watch
• In-demand skillsets 
• Salary expectations

We put the power in your hands with tools to drill down on the sectors, roles and stats that matter to you. Whether you’re seeking global perspectives, national knowledge, or local insights – you’ll find it in our Salary Survey.

Fill in the form to the right to get free access to the tool.

Outlook for 2026

Key trends, opportunities and challenges in Belgium’s 2026 job market

The outlook for Belgium’s 2026 job market reflects cautious optimism. Despite a challenging macroeconomic environment, marked by slower global growth, trade uncertainties, and restrained corporate investment, both employers and professionals are expressing renewed confidence about the year ahead.

Our research reveals that 65% of companies plan to hire in 2026, with about half aiming to expand their teams. This shows a focus on growth and opportunity, even amidst external pressures.

Furthermore, a majority of 71% of organisations plan to offer pay rises in 2026, albeit modest ones (less than 5%). Employees remain optimistic, hoping for better financial recognition despite sensing tight organisational budgets.

Salary increases will be a key factor in retention, as 63% of professionals say they would consider changing jobs if their pay does not improve. Employers who balance budget constraints with competitive compensation strategies can strengthen loyalty and attract top talent.

Belgium’s workforce is expected to experience significant mobility by 2026, with over half (51%) of professionals planning to change jobs. While financial reasons drive 27% of these decisions, many are seeking better career growth (22%) or leaving due to dissatisfaction (19%). Employers who go beyond paychecks and foster a people-first approach will stand out in a competitive labour market.

Concerns about job loss due to AI are minimal among Belgian companies. Only 8% of business leaders expect AI to reduce jobs, while 35% believe it will reshape existing roles. Most view AI as a tool to enhance efficiency and alleviate repetitive tasks rather than replace employees.

For many organisations, 2026 will be the year to prepare their workforce for AI transformation. Over half of professionals feel their employers lack sufficient investment in AI and digital skills training – a critical gap that could hinder long-term agility and competitiveness. Companies that prioritise upskilling will empower their teams to adapt to evolving roles and maintain a competitive edge in a tech-driven future.

In addition to technical expertise, soft skills are becoming increasingly vital for workplace success. Adaptability and resilience, creative problem-solving, and communication and collaboration are among the most sought-after skills for the coming year. 

These human-centric competencies will help both organizations and professionals moving forward, no matter what changes come next.

Belgium’s job market in 2026 offers opportunities for growth despite economic pressures. Employers who focus on competitive salaries, career development opportunities, inclusive cultures, and proactive skills management will position themselves as leaders in attracting and retaining talent.

For employees, the outlook is equally promising. Those who embrace continuous learning, develop the right technical and soft skills and remain open to change will find themselves well-equipped to seize new opportunities in an evolving job market.