Greenland is a fascinating part of the Kingdom of Denmark, yet very different from mainland Europe in both lifestyle and labor conditions.
For expats in Denmark who are curious about job opportunities in Greenland — or simply want to understand this northern territory better — one of the key questions is: What is the minimum wage in Greenland?
Let’s explore that — and much more.
Minimum Wage Overview in Greenland
Even though there’s no official nationwide minimum wage in Greenland, most salaries follow industry standards or union agreements. Here’s a look at typical monthly wages, both in Danish kroner (DKK) and US dollars (USD):
| Sector / Job Type | Typical Monthly Salary (DKK) | Approx. in USD | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Retail / Shop Assistant | 22,000 – 26,000 | $3,235 – $3,820 | Often includes evening/weekend bonuses |
| Cleaning Staff | 23,000 – 28,000 | $3,380 – $4,120 | Varies by employer and town |
| Construction Worker | 26,000 – 32,000 | $3,820 – $4,710 | Union-negotiated wages common |
| Nurse (Public Sector) | 35,000 – 40,000 | $5,145 – $5,880 | Extra pay in remote areas |
| Teacher (Public School) | 34,000 – 38,000 | $5,000 – $5,590 | Requires local teaching credentials |
| Engineer / IT Specialist | 45,000+ | $6,615+ | Often includes relocation packages |
Exchange rate used: 1 USD ≈ 6.8 DKK. Salaries may vary depending on experience, location, and whether a job is covered by union agreements.
Also read: Minimum wage in Denmark
Understanding the Greenland-Denmark Connection
Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. While it has its own government and parliament, many areas — including foreign affairs, defense, and currency — are still managed by Denmark.
This connection makes it easier for Danish and EU citizens to live and work in Greenland without a visa. For non-EU expats, working in Greenland typically follows the same permit process as in Denmark.
How Wages Are Set in Greenland
In the absence of a national minimum wage law, wages in Greenland are usually determined by:
- Collective bargaining agreements (particularly in the public sector)
- Negotiations between employers and employees
- Guidelines from labor unions, especially SIK (Kalaallit Nunaanni Sulinermik Inuussutissarsiuteqartut Kattuffiat), the largest workers’ union in Greenland
If you take a job in Greenland, it’s important to ask:
- Is the job covered by a collective agreement?
- What are the expected working hours and conditions?
- Are there location-based bonuses for working in remote towns?
Cost of Living in Greenland
Salaries in Greenland may seem similar to or even slightly lower than in Denmark, but the cost of living is significantly higher, particularly for:
- Food (most goods are imported)
- Household items
- Alcohol and tobacco
For example:
- A liter of milk can cost over 20 DKK in smaller towns
- A standard dinner for one at a restaurant may cost 150–300 DKK
While some public services (like healthcare) are subsidized, everyday expenses can add up quickly — so it’s important to look at net income vs. cost of living before accepting a job offer.
Thinking of Working in Greenland?
Here are a few things to consider before making the move:
✔ Language
- Danish is widely spoken in professional settings
- Greenlandic (Kalaallisut) is the official language and spoken by most locals
- English is helpful but not always sufficient outside of tourist areas
✔ Lifestyle
- Life is slower-paced, with tight-knit communities
- Winter darkness and isolation can be challenging, but nature is stunning
- Outdoor activities like dog sledding, kayaking, and hiking are part of everyday life
✔ Work Opportunities
- Most opportunities are in public service, education, healthcare, construction, and tourism
- Remote work is limited due to internet access and infrastructure in smaller settlements
- Jobs in Nuuk are more competitive, while remote areas may offer incentives and housing