Why Are More and More Germans Choosing to Work Abroad? Survey Insights

Working in another country is no longer just a question of money or CV. In fact, a recent survey by Auslandsjob.de revealed that the reasons that drive German professionals to move abroad are mainly personal and cultural, not merely financial!
If you also dream of having an international experience, you will be interested in knowing these findings (and how CityJobOffers helps you to make them come true).
Beyond the salary: the leading motivations for a job outside Germany
The results of the Auslandjobs survey made one thing very clear: the personal adventure outweighs economic considerations
The following are the main reasons that the Germans pointed out when thinking about working abroad:
- Immersing themselves in new cultures and learning languages – 65.7% The desire to meet new people, learn languages and experience different ways of life tops the list.
- A change of scenery and more adventure in life – 55.9%. Many are looking to get out of a rut, experience something different and revitalize their daily lives.
- “Leaving Germany” and experiencing something different - 44.9% Simply leaving the country is gaining ground as a reason, either out of restlessness or a certain dissatisfaction with life at home.
- Earning a higher salary - 33.8% Although important, the economic factor takes a back seat to the desire for adventure.
- Boosting their CV and career – 25.9% Improving their CV is an added benefit, but only a quarter see it as the main reason for going abroad.
In short, the majority are looking for personal growth and enriching experiences when working abroad, while salary or the “corporate ladder” take a back seat
The idea of experiencing something new outweighs any increase in salary.
Trends: from escaping the routine to new international horizons
Another interesting fact from this survey is the change in trends compared to previous years. More and more people admit that they want to leave simply to “escape” from their environment; this reason, which previously hardly featured, has now become very relevant
At the same time, although salary has gained some importance, it is still not the main driver of the decision.
It is clear that the focus has shifted from the material to the experiential.
Likewise, the majority of respondents expressed a positive motivation or “pull factor”: 67% feel that their own destination abroad is the magnet, thanks to the new experiences, cultures or opportunities it offers.
Of a “push” motivation to leave Germany due to dissatisfaction with their current situation or the context in their country
Whether it is to look for something new or to get away from the familiar, the common denominator is the desire for change.
Can you relate? Seeking new horizons is not exclusive to Germans. More and more people (of all nationalities) share this desire to grow, learn and break with the routine that their country of origin may no longer offer them.
City Job Offers: turn your motivations into international opportunities
The best thing about knowing these motivations is knowing that there are opportunities to satisfy them. If your dream is to have an adventure abroad, CityJobOffers.com can be your ally in taking the leap. On our platform you will find hundreds of international jobs designed for people like you, who are looking for more than just an ordinary job. What do we have to offer?
- Jobs in attractive destinations: Portugal, Greece, Spain, and more! Imagine starting your morning by the Mediterranean or exploring a new metropolis at the weekend.
- Jobs in your own language: Worried about the local language? Many of our offers allow you to work in Spanish (or other native languages) while you adapt, so you feel comfortable from day one cityjoboffers.com. You can learn the language of the country step by step, without pressure!
- Help with relocation: Don't let the paperwork stop you. We support you with the move, accommodation search and paperwork, hand in hand with companies that even cover flights or initial housing. Moving for work has never been so easy.
- Personal and professional growth: Even if your main motivation is the life experience, you will gain intercultural skills and a global perspective that will make your CV shine. A win-win for your future!
In short, working abroad allows you to reinvent yourself, as the German survey shows. New languages, cultures, challenges and adventures await you beyond your borders. And with CityJobOffers, that leap comes with a safety net: selected offers, personalized support and the guarantee that you won't be alone in your new phase.
Get ready for your very own international adventure!
If the Germans are so sure, why aren't you? 😉 The time has come to turn that desire for a change of scenery into reality. Explore the opportunities on offer at CityJobOffers.com and be inspired by destinations and positions tailored to your needs. Your ideal job abroad is waiting for you - along with the unforgettable experiences that motivate so many to take the plunge.
Ready to start a new professional life with new horizons? The world is yours, and we'll help you conquer it! 🌎✨