Poverty Across the EU in 2026: The Countries Leading – and Falling Behind

Poverty levels in the EU in 2025 vary significantly by country. Find out where the highest and lowest rates are and what this means for Ukrainians

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In 2025, almost one in five European Union residents faced the risk of poverty or social exclusion. Despite economic growth in some countries, social inequality remains one of the key challenges for the EU.

According to Eurostat, in 2025, 92.7 million people, or 20.9% of the EU population, were at risk. This is not just the classic concept of poverty, but a broader phenomenon that includes low income, material constraints and unstable employment.

This article tells about the countries that have become leaders in terms of poverty in the EU, as well as the risk groups and prospects for getting out of the situation.

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What does “risk of poverty” mean in the EU?

European statistics uses a comprehensive indicator – AROPE (At Risk of Poverty or Social Exclusion). It takes into account three factors at once:

- Low income level (less than 60% of the median income in the country);

- Serious material and social restrictions;

- Living in a household with very low work intensity.

This means that even people with a job can fall into this category if their income does not allow them to maintain a basic standard of living.

Where in Europe is the highest poverty rate?

The highest poverty risk rates in 2025 are recorded in the countries of Southern and Eastern Europe:

- Bulgaria – 29.0%

- Greece – 27.5%

- Romania – 27.4%

These countries traditionally have lower income levels and are also more vulnerable to economic crises and unemployment. For example, in Greece, the consequences of the debt crisis are still affecting living standards, and in Bulgaria - one of the lowest average incomes in the EU.

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Which countries have the best poverty levels?

In contrast, the countries of Central Europe demonstrate the lowest poverty risk indicators:

- Czech Republic – 11.5%

- Poland – 15.0%

- Slovenia – 15.5%

In these countries, social protection mechanisms work better, and the labor market is more stable. The Czech Republic, in particular, has maintained the position of the country with the lowest poverty level in the EU for several years in a row.

Who is most at risk of being below the poverty line in Europe?

Statistics show that the risk is distributed unevenly among different population groups:

- Women more often than men (21.9% versus 19.8%);

- Young people aged 18–24 are the most vulnerable age group (26.3%);

- The unemployed are in a critical risk zone (66.3%);

- People with a low level of education – more than a third are at risk.

These data confirm that education and employment remain key factors for financial stability.

The war has radically changed the financial situation of Ukrainians. Already, demographers are recording a dangerous jump in the poverty rate in Ukraine to 30% and are warning of long-term unemployment. More details at the link.

Families with children are a separate risk zone

Interestingly, households with children are more likely to find themselves in a difficult situation. In 2025, 22.1% of such families were at risk of poverty, which is slightly more than for families without children.

This is due to higher expenses and dependence on a stable income. In some countries, such as Spain or Romania, this figure is approaching 30%.

Is the situation with the poverty level in Europe improving?

Despite the scale of the problem, there is a positive signal: compared to 2024, the number of people at risk has decreased by 600 thousand people. This indicates a gradual recovery of economies after the crises of recent years, but the pace of change remains slow.

Why is it important for Ukrainians to understand poverty indicators in EU countries?

For Ukrainians planning to move or work in Europe, these data are not just statistics, but a practical guide.

Even within the EU, the standard of living can vary significantly from country to country. For example, working in the Czech Republic or Poland can provide more stable conditions than in countries with higher levels of social risks.

At the same time, it is important to consider not only salaries, but also expenses, social guarantees and access to healthcare.

The European Union remains one of the most socially protected regions in the world, but the problem of poverty here is far from being solved. The difference between countries remains significant, and the most vulnerable groups - young people, the unemployed and families with children - need additional support.

Building a career abroad is no longer a dream, but a real opportunity. At the same time, this path is often accompanied by bureaucratic, legal and administrative difficulties.

An employment lawyer helps to turn the idea of ​​moving into a clear action plan and accompanies clients at every stage. Turning to a lawyer is a way to avoid mistakes, save time and resources and confidently move towards your goal.

Order a consultation with an employment lawyer today - take the first step towards working abroad without risks and unnecessary stress!

Reminder! Europe remains economically uneven: the difference in living standards between countries is significant. Read here which EU countries became the richest and poorest in 2025 according to Eurostat.

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