Greek workers see real wages stall despite strong economic growth

The Spring 2026 report of the Greek Fiscal Council shows that, for the second consecutive year, real wages in Greece have been virtually unchanged. Average nominal wages rose only 0.1 % in 2025, an increase insufficient to offset persistent price rises. Structural inflation remains high at 3.6 % in 2025, squeezing household budgets even as the economy records some of the fastest growth rates in the EU and unemployment continues to fall.

The council notes that Greece still ranks among the lowest‑paid EU members: the median gross annual salary is about €18,000, compared with an EU average above €39,000. Even after adjusting for cost of living, Greek workers’ purchasing power lags far behind most European countries. Productivity per hour is roughly half the EU average, and overall worker productivity remains weak, limiting the sustainability of any wage gains. The report stresses that higher wages are needed both to improve living standards and to stimulate domestic demand, but such increases must be paired with stronger productivity growth to keep the economy balanced.

Inflation pressures are expected to rise again, with forecasts indicating a jump to 3.2 % in 2026 after a slight dip in 2025, and sector‑specific price hikes continue in housing, energy, clothing and services, further burdening family budgets.