The minimum wage in Ukraine is twice as low as in Moldova

The minimum wage in Ukraine in 2026 remains the lowest among all European countries. Even in Moldova, the official minimum income for workers is almost twice as high as in Ukraine. This is reported by OBOZ.UA.

The minimum wage in Ukraine is almost twice as low as in Moldova

As of 2026, the Ukrainian minimum wage is 8600 hryvnias or approximately 173 euros.

For comparison:

• in Moldova, the minimum wage is 319 euros;

• in Bulgaria – 620 euros;

• in Poland – 1139 euros;

• in the Czech Republic – 924 euros;

• in Germany – 2343 euros.

According to the latest data from the State Statistics Service, the average salary in Ukraine is 30,300 hryvnias.

At the same time, the minimum wage is only 28.4% of the average income.

The government wants to increase the minimum wage

The Deputy Minister of Economy, Environment and Agriculture, Daryna Marchak, stated that the government aims to raise the minimum wage to at least 50% of the average.

Currently, a new Labor Code is being prepared in Ukraine, but specific terms or percentages of the increase have not yet been defined.

According to EU recommendations, the minimum wage should be up to 60% of the average income to ensure a decent standard of living.

If Ukraine were to reach at least the 40% mark, the minimum wage should now be around 12,200 hryvnias.

If approaching the European target of 60% – approximately 18,200 hryvnias.

In Europe, the minimum wage often isn't enough even for rent

Even in EU countries, minimum incomes do not always allow for a comfortable living.

According to Eurostat, in many European capitals, the minimum wage is not enough even to rent a two-room apartment.

The situation is particularly difficult in Eastern and Southern European countries.

In some cities, including Prague and Lisbon, rental costs exceed minimum incomes by more than 150%.

For Ukrainians, this means that despite a low official minimum wage, the issue of housing availability and basic expenses remains relevant not only in Ukraine but also in most European countries.

Recall that the National Bank of Ukraine has forecasted the level of wage increases for Ukrainians by 2026.