Hungary lifts construction minimum hourly rate by 16% and eyes 25% social sector wage rise

The Hungarian government approved a proposal from the National Association of Construction Contractors (ÉVOSZ) and the Construction Materials Workers’ Union to raise the minimum construction-sector hourly rate (excluding VAT) to 7,830 forints, up from 6,764 forints in 2024 – a 16% increase. The new rate takes effect on July 15, 2025. Koji László, president of ÉVOSZ, said the minimum rate is a key reference point for clients to judge whether a bid is realistic or excessively high.

In the social services sector, unions representing family‑help and child‑welfare agencies have submitted a demand for an immediate, retroactive 25% wage increase effective June 1, followed by a staged reform of the wage table beginning January 1, 2027. The plan includes reducing pay grades and aligning social‑sector salaries with those in health and education. Negotiations are underway with the minister responsible for social, family and elderly affairs.