Only Eight European Countries Raise Minimum Wages Despite Inflation

The European Union's minimum wages have been released for the second half of 2026. According to Eurostat, only eight countries out of 29 have increased their gross minimum wage between January and July 2026.

The top five countries with the highest minimum wages in nominal terms are Luxembourg at €2,771, Ireland at €2,391, Germany at €2,343, the Netherlands at €2,338, and Belgium at €2,234. France has a minimum wage of €1,867.

In contrast, Ukraine has the lowest minimum wage at €169, while Bulgaria's is at €620. When adjusted for purchasing power, Luxembourg falls to third place, behind Germany and the Netherlands.