Lisbon, July 9, 2025 (Lusa) - The minimum wage covers the basic expenses of an adult in only a few European Union countries; Belgium stands as one of the exceptions, while Portugal ranks among the least favourable places, according to a study by Gisma University of Applied Sciences.
“A recent study by Gisma University of Applied Sciences shows that in almost all European Union countries, individuals need wages above the legal minimum to cover basic living expenses - families require even more,” it said in a statement.
Belgium stands as the exception, where the net minimum wage exceeds the average monthly cost of living (including rent) for a single adult.
Cyprus presents the most critical situation, with a net minimum wage of €886 and an average monthly cost of living of € 1,801.90.
This is followed by countries such as the Czech Republic and Malta, which show deficits of €803.19 and €796.59, respectively.
Portugal is just behind, with a deficit of €717.22, considering the cost of living and the salary paid.
The study indicated that the rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Portugal is €934.92, which, when added to the other basic expenses of a single person, amounts to €1,620.22.
For a family of four, the average income requires further growth in 16 EU countries, with Portugal among the top three.
The largest deficits are found in Malta (€1,468.62), Greece (€1,368.69), and Portugal (€1,339.07).
At the other end of the scale, with surpluses, are countries such as Denmark (€2,200.63), Sweden (€2,162.97) and the Netherlands (€1,735.76).
“This study highlights a reality that people often overlook: in much of Europe, earning the minimum wage provides insufficient cover for the cost of living.
“This issue concerns more than economics; it involves access and opportunity, especially for young people starting their careers,” said the university’s president, Ramon O’Challaghan.
Gisma University of Applied Sciences conducted this analysis based on minimum and average incomes in EU member states, the cost of living and average rents.
In each case, the analysis assumed the net income from a full-time job (40 hours per week).
This study also considers data from Eurostat, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and national statistical institutes.
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