Professionals working in Dublin are earning up to 15 per cent more than those working in the same jobs elsewhere in the State.

A study on pay and benefits from Morgan McKinley found that those working in the capital could earn anything from 8 per cent to 15 per cent more than in Cork, Limerick and Waterford.

The survey highlighted sectors where demand for talent was highest, including software development, data analytics, research and development, and digital marketing.

Morgan McKinley Ireland inward investment director Tracy Keevans said the survey indicated that Ireland had “rebounded”, at least for the professional sector.

“As the demand for top talent remains competitive, we have seen an increase in the number of employers seeking to benchmark their benefits offering to ensure it is competitive in attracting and retaining the best professional talent.”

Keeping top talent
Benefits to keep the top talent included health insurance for managers and increased holiday entitlements. The accountancy and finance sector get up to 27 days of holidays a year, compared with an average of 20 to 23 days.

Pension entitlements can be better in the financial services sector, with employer contributions above the average of 10 per cent at 15 per cent for the sector.