Hungary reports 8.7% rise in average gross wages in May 2026

The Central Statistical Office (KSH) released May 2026 data showing that the average gross salary for full‑time employees in Hungary reached 764,100 forints, an 8.7 % increase over the same month a year earlier. The average net salary rose to 535,900 forints, up 11 %, while real wages grew 9 % after accounting for 1.8 % consumer‑price inflation.

Median earnings were also higher: median gross pay was 615,600 forints and median net pay 436,200 forints, both up roughly 10 % year‑on‑year. Sector‑by‑sector figures showed the nonprofit sector with the highest net average (≈550,400 Ft) and the private sector slightly lower. Regional analysis indicated the strongest wage growth outside the capital, notably in Hajdú‑Bihar, Szabolcs‑Szatmár‑Bereg, Baranya and Tolna, while Budapest’s wages remained the highest but grew more slowly.

Analysts expect overall annual wage growth of 9–10 % this year, citing the ongoing rise in net earnings and low inflation, which also improves household loan‑repayment capacity. Calculations based on KSH figures suggest that average earners could qualify for personal loans up to about 15 million forints with long repayment periods, while median earners face lower limits.