For years, Poland has been one of the most popular destinations for labor migration among Ukrainian citizens. After the outbreak of the war, the inflow of migrants to Poland increased significantly, and according to data from 2025 and early 2026, a growing share of this group consists of women working both in services and in the industrial sector. How much do Ukrainians earn in Poland and in which industries are they most commonly employed?
Earnings of Ukrainians in Poland
Currently, Ukrainians work in more than half of medium and large companies in Poland, and growing labor shortages mean that employers increasingly target workers from the eastern border. The simplified employment system and extended temporary protection regulations still play a significant role.
Salaries in 2026 increased along with the rise in the minimum wage, which since January 2026 amounts to PLN 4,806 gross (PLN 3,606 net). As a result, wages for Ukrainian workers have also gone up. Current labor market studies indicate that:
- 36% earn between PLN 4,000–5,000 net,
- 27% earn PLN 3,600–4,000 net,
- around 18% earn PLN 5,000–6,000 net,
- 4% exceed PLN 6,000 net per month.
The share of people accepting wages below the minimum has significantly decreased – currently around 6% , mainly those doing occasional or seasonal work. Overtime still plays a major role, allowing many workers to increase their monthly income.
Average salary vs cost of living in Poland
Knowing how much Ukrainians earn in Poland, it is worth considering whether these wages cover basic living costs. Some individuals still report low expenses thanks to benefits such as accommodation, meals, or transport provided by employers.
Research from 2025–2026 shows that:
- 28% spend PLN 300–600 per month,
- 32% spend PLN 600–1,000,
- 17% spend PLN 1,000–2,000,
- the highest costs typically apply to young people and those working in large cities.
Although inflation in 2023–2025 increased housing and service costs, rising wages have meant that real saving potential for Ukrainian workers remains relatively good, and most still send part of their income to families in Ukraine.
Which industries employ Ukrainian workers?
Ukrainian workers form a large group in the labor market. They are employed across many industries, but several stand out. A significant number work in industry, production, and logistics. Jobs are widely available in warehouses and forklift operations. The second largest sector is retail. Ukrainians often work as sales assistants, cashiers, and receptionists. They are also in demand in construction and agriculture. In construction, specialists from various fields are needed, while in agriculture seasonal work such as harvesting is common. Ukrainians with good Polish language skills and relevant education also work as translators, teachers, IT specialists, and doctors.
What are average salaries in Ukraine?
When Poland joined the European Union, many Poles looked with envy toward Western countries, where salaries were and still are several times higher. For Ukrainians, Poland is now the country where salaries can be several times higher than in their home country. What are the differences?
Minimum wage
The minimum wage in Ukraine in 2026, after increases in 2024 and 2025, amounts to 8,000 UAH per month, which is approximately PLN 770–800. In comparison, the minimum wage in Poland is PLN 4,806 gross (PLN 3,606 net). This means that the minimum wage in Poland is more than four times higher.
Average salary
The average salary in Ukraine in 2026 is around 19,800–21,000 UAH (approx. PLN 1,900–2,050). This is still significantly lower than in Poland, where the average salary in 2025 reached around PLN 8,040 gross (approx. PLN 5,700 net), with further growth expected in 2026.
The wage gap remains similar to previous years and continues to be one of the main reasons for labor migration to Poland.
Cost of living in Ukraine
Despite rising prices due to the geopolitical situation, the cost of living in Ukraine remains around 40–50% lower than in Poland.
Estimated monthly costs in 2026:
- studio apartment in city center: PLN 500–650,
- apartment on the outskirts: PLN 300–450,
- property purchase: PLN 2,500–4,000/m²,
- food: PLN 600–700,
- public transport: PLN 35–40,
- utilities: PLN 350–420,
- internet: PLN 40–50.
Relative to income, these costs still represent a significant burden for residents of Ukraine.
How to find employees from Ukraine?
Ukrainian workers are considered reliable and motivated, which is why companies are eager to hire them. The question remains where to find them and how to organize the recruitment process. Recruitment can be conducted independently through labor offices or online platforms, but it requires significant time investment. Mistakes or unclear requirements may make it difficult to find suitable candidates. Therefore, cooperating with a temporary employment agency is often a good solution.
In this case, the employer is assured that the hired worker will have the required qualifications. Agencies have experience in recruiting both individuals and groups, know where to find candidates, and how to conduct proper selection. They also handle all formalities, including contracts, saving the employer time and effort.