STTK report shows lagging income growth for young people in Finland

A purchasing power review by the Central Organization of Finnish Trade Unions (STTK) reveals that income growth in Finland has disproportionately benefited older generations. While real incomes have risen across all age groups since 1966, the growth is heavily concentrated among the oldest cohorts. For example, incomes for those aged 55–64 have increased by nearly 300 percent, whereas the 25–34 age group has seen growth of only about 150 percent.

STTK economist Tom-Henrik Sirviö notes that incomes for those under 35 have still not recovered to pre-financial crisis levels, remaining approximately 10–15 percent lower than in 2008. Within the 25–34 age group, a gender divide has also emerged; women's incomes have risen following successful negotiations in female-dominated sectors like social and healthcare, while men's incomes have dropped by nearly 2,500 euros annually compared to pre-pandemic levels, potentially due to a growing unemployment gap.

The report suggests that these disparities are driven not only by wage differences but also by improved employment rates and rising retirement ages among older workers. Sirviö emphasizes that income inequality among young people has increased during this decade and calls for active political measures to prevent long-term impacts on wealth accumulation and housing opportunities for younger generations.