Salary Structure in Barbados (2024 Overview)
Barbados has a mixed wage structure that includes both fixed minimum wages and negotiated salaries depending on the industry, qualifications, and experience. The cost of living in Barbados is relatively high, especially in urban areas like Bridgetown.
Minimum Wage in Barbados
- As of April 1, 2021, the national minimum wage is:
- BBD $8.50 per hour (approx. USD $4.25)
- Applies to most categories of workers
Special categories like shop assistants and domestic workers previously had different rates, but the government moved to a more uniform structure.
Average Monthly Salaries (Approximate)
| Profession | Monthly Salary (BBD) | Monthly Salary (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Hotel Front Desk Staff | $2,000 – $3,000 | $1,000 – $1,500 |
| Secondary School Teacher | $3,500 – $5,500 | $1,750 – $2,750 |
| Nurse | $3,000 – $4,500 | $1,500 – $2,250 |
| Doctor (General Practitioner) | $7,000 – $12,000 | $3,500 – $6,000 |
| Construction Worker | $2,500 – $4,000 | $1,250 – $2,000 |
| Accountant | $4,000 – $7,000 | $2,000 – $3,500 |
| IT Technician | $3,500 – $6,000 | $1,750 – $3,000 |
| Police Officer | $3,000 – $5,000 | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Administrative Assistant | $2,200 – $3,200 | $1,100 – $1,600 |
Note: Salaries vary based on qualifications, sector (public vs. private), years of experience, and location.
Public Sector Pay Structure
- Governed by pay scales (e.g., Civil Service Grade 1 to 14)
- Includes:
- Base pay
- Allowances (transport, housing, etc.)
- Pensions and healthcare benefits
Private Sector Salaries
- Determined by market demand and company policies
- Often more performance-based and negotiable than public sector pay
- Industries like finance, tourism, ICT, and international business tend to pay more
Deductions from Salary
Common payroll deductions include:
- National Insurance Scheme (NIS) – social security (about 11% combined from employer and employee)
- Income Tax – up to 33.5% on higher earnings
- Health Levy – minor deductions for public healthcare
