Top European Countries by Poverty Rates in 2023

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Europe’s Poverty Landscape in 2025: A Country-by-Country Breakdown

Source: Eurostat, 2024

Austria’s Relatively Low Poverty Rate
Austria boasts one of the lowest poverty rates in Europe, with just 16.9% of its population at risk of poverty or social exclusion. The nation’s robust social safety nets and economic stability contribute to these favorable figures, reflecting effective welfare policies and a resilient job market.
Belgium’s Slightly Higher Poverty Levels
With an 18.2% risk of poverty, Belgium remains moderately affected. Despite having comprehensive social services, recent economic shifts and inflationary pressures have impacted vulnerable populations, prompting policy reviews aimed at further reducing social inequality.
Bulgaria Ranks as Europe’s Most Affected Country
Bulgaria exhibits the highest poverty rate among European nations at 30.3%. Persistent economic challenges, uneven regional development, and limited social support systems continue to hinder progress in poverty alleviation, illuminating a significant area for targeted intervention.
Cyprus Maintains a Moderate Poverty Rate
At 17.1%, Cyprus has relatively low poverty levels compared to its regional peers. Its tourism-driven economy and increasing employment opportunities play vital roles in supporting families and reducing social exclusion.
Czechia Shows Strong Social Indicators
With only 11.3% at risk, Czechia demonstrates notable success in combating poverty. Its expanding economy and investments in education have contributed to this positive outlook, making it a model for neighboring countries.
Germany’s Poverty Rate Reflects Economic Challenges
Germany reports a 21.1% poverty level, illustrating ongoing economic disparities despite being Europe’s largest economy. Rising housing costs and unemployment in certain regions have contributed to these statistics, highlighting the need for targeted social measures.
Denmark’s Social Policies Keep Poverty Low
At 18.0%, Denmark continues to prioritize social equality through progressive taxation and comprehensive welfare programs, ensuring that a significant portion of its population remains above the poverty line.
Spain’s Poverty figures Rise Slightly
Currently at 25.8%, Spain continues to grapple with economic recovery post-pandemic. High unemployment rates and regional disparities contribute to its elevated risk levels, urging reforms to social safety nets.
Estonia Strives for Economic Inclusion
With a 22.2% poverty rate, Estonia’s focus on digitalization and education initiatives aims to foster economic inclusion, though challenges persist in vulnerable communities.
Finland and Its Low Poverty Rates
Finland’s rate stands at 16.8%, reinforcing its reputation for progressive social policies and high living standards. Investments in education and healthcare are pivotal to maintaining this status.
France’s Ongoing Social Challenges
At 20.5%, France’s social landscape remains complex, with urban poverty and immigration influencing social exclusion. Policy efforts focus on integrating marginalized groups and strengthening social cohesion.
Greece Faces Elevated Poverty Levels
With a 26.9% risk, Greece continues to recover economically, but high unemployment and austerity measures have left many in vulnerable circumstances, necessitating targeted social programs.
Croatia’s Moderate Poverty Rate
At 21.7%, Croatia is working to bolster its social support systems amid economic recovery efforts, aiming to reduce poverty and social exclusion further.
Ireland’s Low Poverty Incidence
With 16.7%, Ireland’s dynamic economy and social welfare initiatives help keep poverty levels in check, though regional disparities remain a concern.
Italy’s Persistently High Poverty Level
Italy falls at 23.1%, with economic stagnation and structural barriers contributing to ongoing social exclusion, especially in southern regions.
Lithuania’s Efforts Toward Social Integration
At 25.8%, Lithuania’s policies increasingly target vulnerable groups, seeking to foster economic inclusion and reduce disparities.
Luxembourg’s Tiny but Impactful Poverty Rate
Despite its small size, Luxembourg reports a 20.0% rate, partially due to high living costs offset by its prosperous economy and social programs.
Latvia Continues Its Fight Against Poverty
With 24.3%, Latvia faces challenges similar to its Baltic neighbors, emphasizing education and job creation to improve social outcomes.
Malta Maintains a Moderate Poverty Level
At 19.7%, Malta’s growing tourism industry and social policies are key to maintaining this position while striving for further reduction.
Netherlands’ Relatively Low Poverty Figures
Only 15.4%, the Netherlands benefits from comprehensive welfare and active labor markets, fostering economic resilience.
Norway’s High Living Standards and Low Poverty Rate
With 15.7%, Norway’s strong economy and extensive social benefits uphold its position among Europe’s less affected nations.
Poland’s Moderate Poverty Statistics
At 16.0%, Poland exhibits steady economic growth and social mobility, although disparities still exist across regions.
Portugal’s Social Recovery
Poverty currently affects 19.7% of Portugal’s population, signaling progress post-economic crises, but ongoing efforts are necessary to address remaining inequalities.
Romania’s Highest Poverty Rate in Europe
At 27.9%, Romania faces significant hurdles, including regional inequality and limited social safety measures, calling for substantial policy reforms.
Slovakia and Slovenia Show Promising Trends
Slovakia’s 18.3% and Slovenia’s 14.4% rates reflect ongoing efforts to combat poverty through social investments and economic development.
Sweden’s Commitment to Equality
With a rate of 17.5%, Sweden remains dedicated to social inclusion, leveraging extensive welfare programs to keep poverty levels low.
Turkey’s Alarming Poverty Numbers
At 30.4%, Turkey’s high poverty rate underscores economic volatility and social challenges, emphasizing the need for comprehensive reforms to uplift vulnerable populations.

These figures paint a complex picture of poverty across Europe in 2025, highlighting both successes and ongoing challenges. Nations with robust social systems continue to outperform, yet disparities remain, especially in Eastern Europe. The evolving economic landscape demands continuous policy adaptation to ensure social inclusion and prosperity for all citizens.

Source: Eurostat, 2024