Salaries In Antigua And Barbuda: Evolution And Trends

Salaries in Antigua and Barbuda vary significantly based on numerous factors, including the sector of employment, education level, experience, job title, and gender. The average yearly salary in the country is around 55,220 XCD (Eastern Caribbean dollars), ranging from a minimum wage of 2,335 XCD per month to a maximum of 239,300 XCD per year. The average monthly salary is estimated to be between 3,000 and 3,500 XCD, translating to roughly 1,111-1,296 USD. The cost of living, economic conditions, and labour standards also influence salary levels in Antigua and Barbuda.

Gender pay gap

Antigua and Barbuda's economy is highly dependent on tourism, with the service sector, including tourism, hospitality, and retail, offering higher average wages than the agricultural sector. The average monthly salary in this Caribbean nation is estimated to be around 3,000–3,500 Eastern Caribbean Dollars (XCD) or 1,111–1,296 United States Dollars (USD). The minimum wage, set by the government, is XCD 9.00 per hour or XCD 2,700 per month.

The gender wage gap in Antigua and Barbuda is influenced by various factors, including industry sectors, occupation choices, education levels, work experience, and discrimination. Studies have shown that women often earn less than men for the same work, and this discrepancy is more pronounced in sectors with a lack of wage transparency or those dominated by one gender. Social and cultural norms have historically directed women toward lower-paid jobs, contributing to the overall gender wage gap. Additionally, women's career progression can be impacted by maternity leave and child-rearing, leading to gaps in employment or part-time work, which can hinder earning potential and advancement opportunities.

To address wage inequality, Antigua and Barbuda has implemented legislation promoting equal pay for work of equal value and initiatives to increase women's representation in higher-paying roles and industries. Despite these efforts, the gender wage gap persists, reflecting global trends and local challenges. The country strives to adhere to international standards regarding gender equality and non-discrimination in employment. There is a focus on encouraging women to pursue higher education and careers in a diverse range of fields to enhance their employment opportunities and earning potential.

The gender wage gap in Antigua and Barbuda is a complex issue influenced by historical, social, and economic factors. While the country has made efforts to reduce the gap through legislation and initiatives, further work is needed to achieve gender pay parity.

Salary by experience

Experience is a significant factor in determining salaries in Antigua and Barbuda, with higher levels of experience resulting in higher wages. Here is a breakdown of how salaries change with different levels of experience:

Less than two years of experience:

According to research on the salary of quantity surveyors, those with less than two years of experience can expect to earn around 16,340 XCD per year. This is considered an entry-level or junior position, and the salary is lower compared to those with more experience.

2-5 Years of Experience:

With two to five years of experience, employees can expect an average salary increase of approximately 32% to 35% compared to those at the junior level. This applies across all industries and fields in Antigua and Barbuda. The average salary for this experience level is around 21,980 XCD to 35,500 XCD per year.

5-10 Years of Experience:

Employees with five to ten years of experience tend to earn higher wages, with an average salary increase of about 36% compared to those with less than five years of experience. This experience level can command salaries ranging from 35,500 XCD to 42,320 XCD per year.

10-15 Years of Experience:

After ten years of work, salaries in Antigua and Barbuda experience a notable jump, increasing by about 21% compared to the previous experience level. This means that employees with 10 to 15 years of experience can expect an average salary of around 42,320 XCD to 44,540 XCD per year.

15-20 Years of Experience:

The accumulation of 15 to 20 years of experience further enhances earning potential, with an average salary increase of approximately 14% compared to the previous bracket. Employees with this level of experience can anticipate salaries in the range of 44,540 XCD to 48,740 XCD per year.

Over 20 Years of Experience:

For employees with more than 20 years of experience, the expected average salary continues to climb, reaching 48,740 XCD per year and potentially higher. This level of experience is often associated with senior positions and expertise in a particular field.

It is important to note that these figures are rough estimates, and individual job titles and industries may yield more accurate assessments. Additionally, the cost of living, economic conditions, and labour market dynamics can influence the salary landscape in Antigua and Barbuda.

Salary by education

The level of education and the acquisition of specialized skills have a significant influence on an individual's earning potential in Antigua and Barbuda. The correlation between higher education and higher salaries is widely recognized, and obtaining a higher degree can lead to a notable income increase.

A study conducted in Antigua and Barbuda compared the salaries of professionals with different levels of college degrees who held similar positions in various industries. The results revealed that individuals with a certificate or diploma earned approximately 17% more than those with only a high school education. Those with a Bachelor's Degree earned about 24% more than those with a certificate or diploma. The income increment continues with higher degrees; professionals with a Master's Degree earned 29% more than those with a Bachelor's Degree, and those with a PhD earned around 23% more than Master's Degree holders.

The return on investment in education is generally positive, with individuals often able to recoup the costs of advanced degrees within a year. However, the decision to pursue higher education depends on various factors, including personal circumstances and financial costs.

While the above figures provide a general overview, it is important to note that salary variations exist between different careers and industries. The tourism and service sectors, including hospitality and retail, tend to offer higher wages compared to the agricultural sector. Additionally, certain high-paying occupations, such as government officials, medical professionals, financial managers, and legal professionals, typically require specific qualifications, extensive experience, or significant investment in education and training.

Salary by sector

Antigua and Barbuda's average salary varies across sectors, with tourism, hospitality, and retail generally offering higher wages than the agricultural sector. The average monthly salary in the country is estimated to be between 3,000 and 3,500 Eastern Caribbean Dollars (XCD) or roughly 1,111 to 1,296 United States Dollars (USD).

Tourism, Hospitality, and Retail

The service sector, which includes tourism, hospitality, and retail, typically provides higher salaries compared to other industries in Antigua and Barbuda. The country's economy heavily relies on tourism, and revenue from this sector significantly impacts wages, particularly in service-related occupations such as hotel management and leisure services.

Agriculture and Manufacturing

In contrast, sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing tend to have lower salaries. The monthly minimum wage in Antigua and Barbuda is set at XCD 2,700, and the hourly minimum wage is XCD 9.00. These rates aim to protect workers from unduly low pay, and employers who fail to comply may face penalties.

Other Sectors

Salaries also vary within specific job categories. For example, the average gross monthly salary differs for positions in administration, agriculture, arts and culture, car and chemical industries, construction, customer support, economy and finance, education, electrical engineering, general labour, human resources, information technology, journalism, law, marketing, mechanical engineering, medicine, mining, pharmaceuticals, public administration, quality management, security, technology, telecommunications, textile, top management, translation, transport, water management, and wood processing.

Factors Affecting Salary

Several factors influence salary levels in Antigua and Barbuda, including sector, education level, experience, and job title. Additionally, the cost of living in certain areas may require higher salaries to maintain a decent standard of living.

Salary by job title

Highest-Paid Positions

• Chief Executive Officer: Top executives in the tourism industry can earn high wages due to their crucial role in the country's economy.
• IT Director: IT specialists are in high demand due to the increasing importance of technology and digital infrastructure.
• Call Centre Director: This position involves managing a critical aspect of customer service and support.
• Leasing Director: Leasing directors play a vital role in the real estate and property management sector, which caters to expatriates and the luxury market.
• Plant Manager: Plant managers are responsible for overseeing manufacturing and production operations, ensuring efficiency and productivity.
• Country Manager/Director: These professionals manage operations and strategic initiatives within their organisations, often across multiple countries.
• Pilot: Aviation professionals are essential for the island's connectivity and are compensated for their specialised skills.
• IT Architect: IT architects design and oversee IT systems and infrastructure, ensuring smooth operations and security.
• Lead Developer: Lead developers are senior software engineers who lead development teams and drive technical strategy.
• Managing Director: Managing directors hold significant decision-making power and are responsible for an organisation's overall performance.

Lowest-Paid Positions

• Nursery School Teacher Assistant: Early childhood education workers are often underpaid despite their crucial role in child development.
• Social Counselor: Social counselors provide support and assistance to individuals facing challenges such as addiction, family issues, or mental health concerns.
• Porter/Information Staff: These front-line workers assist customers and clients with information, directions, and other support services.
• Tailor: Tailors work in the textile and apparel industry, often in small shops or boutiques.
• Medical Records Clerk: Medical records clerks are responsible for maintaining patient records and ensuring data accuracy in healthcare settings.
• Seamstress: Seamstresses work with textiles and apparel, often in the fashion industry or performing alterations.
• Pre-school/School/Kindergarten Nurse: These nurses provide healthcare services within educational institutions, ensuring the well-being of students.
• Housekeeper: Housekeepers work in the hospitality and tourism industries, maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in hotels and resorts.
• Cleaner: Cleaners are responsible for maintaining hygiene and sanitation in a variety of settings, including offices, hospitals, and public spaces.
• Postal Worker: Postal workers are responsible for the delivery and collection of mail, often working long hours and covering extensive areas.

Frequently asked questions