mind RH analysis – Average annual minimum wage increase above inflation in the EU

As at 1 January 2025, the annual increase in the minimum wage in the European Union was still well above the average increase in the cost of living. The levels have risen by more than 7%, compared with an annual inflation rate of 3% in December 2024. This increase is, however, slightly lower than last year, when it averaged 11% for an inflation rate of around 3%.

By Nathalie Tran, Rudy Degardin. Published on 30 January 2025 à 16h05 - Update on 30 January 2025 à 17h57

The vast majority of the 22 member states with a cross-industry minimum wage raised its level on 1 January 2025. Only Greece and Cyprus have not announced any increase. While Athens increased its minimum wage by 6.4% in July 2024, outpacing annual inflation (2.9% in December 2024), Cyprus’ minimum wage has remained unchanged since 1 January 2024, despite a 3% rise in the cost of living over the same period. Overall, while the annual inflation rate in the 22 countries concerned stood at almost 3% in December 2024, the minimum wage rose by an average of 7.3% over one year, albeit down on last year.

More than 10 member states have minimum wages below €1,000

In July, 13 member states had a minimum wage below €1,000.…

Nathalie Tran, Rudy Degardin

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