What is the salary difference between public and private IT in Denmark?

The typical salary gap is 10-20% in favour of the private sector. A software developer with a median salary of 54,008 kr./md. in the private sector will typically see a comparable public position pay 46,000-49,000 kr./md.

Are there public IT jobs that pay competitively?

Yes. Cybersecurity roles in Defence and intelligence services, specialists at Danmarks Nationalbank and ATP, and digital roles at the Agency for Digitalisation and Statens IT offer salary levels closer to the private market.

When does it make sense to move from public to private IT?

Typically at 5-10 years of experience, when you have a strong professional profile. That is when the private salary premium is largest relative to the public sector, and you have enough experience to negotiate a good deal.

Should you count pension when comparing public and private pay?

Yes, always. Public pension contributions are typically 15-18% of salary - comparable to or better than many private employers. Always compare the total package (base salary + pension + benefits), not just the base salary.

Guide

Public vs Private Sector IT Salary in Denmark 2026

Last updated: 25-06-2026

Government, region, municipality or private company - it is a question many IT professionals ask themselves at some point. Is there actually a big difference between what you earn in the public sector vs the private sector?

The answer is nuanced. It is not just about the numbers - it is about where you are in your career, which part of the sector you are comparing against, and what else you value.

Overview: What Is the Salary Difference?

The short answer: private pays more - but not always, not for all roles, and not at every stage of a career. The typical salary gap for IT professionals is 10-20% in favour of the private sector.

Role	Private (median)	Public (typical)	Difference
Software Developer	54,008 kr./md.	46,000-49,000 kr.	10-15%
IT Architect	68,040 kr./md.	56,000-62,000 kr.	10-15%
DevOps Engineer	62,013 kr./md.	52,000-57,000 kr.	10-15%
IT Project Manager	approx. 55,000 kr./md.	49,000-53,000 kr.	5-10%

Source: Public salary levels are estimates based on collective agreements and IDA/PROSA statistics. LønRadar's own data primarily covers private sector employment.

What Counts Beyond Salary?

Working Hours and Flexibility

Public sector IT workplaces are generally characterised by a fixed 37-hour week, flextime arrangements, and a solid leave structure.

Job Security

The public sector generally offers higher job security and predictability. In private tech companies, rounds of redundancies are more common.

Pension

Public pension contributions are typically 15-18% of salary - comparable to or better than many private employers. Remember to compare the total package.

Know Your Market Value - Regardless of Sector

See what IT professionals with your job title, experience level, and region earn in the private market. Use it as a reference point when negotiating.

Get your free salary report

← All salary guides