Actual Individual Consumption (AIC) per capita in EU countries ranges from 70% to 136% of the EU average. These figures are based on purchasing power parities (PPPs) published by Eurostat.
AIC as an Indicator of Well-Being
AIC per capita, expressed in purchasing power standards (PPS), serves as a key metric to assess the material well-being of households. In 2023, nine countries recorded values above the EU average. Luxembourg led with 136% of the average, followed by the Netherlands and Germany, both at 119%. In contrast, the lowest levels were observed in Hungary and Bulgaria, both at 70%, followed by Latvia at 74%.
Significant Changes between 2021 and 2023
Over the past three years, AIC per capita relative to the EU average varied significantly across most countries. Fifteen member states saw increases, with Ireland standing out, rising from 91% in 2021 to 99% in 2023, and Cyprus reaching 100% from a previous 94%. However, 11 countries recorded decreases, with notable drops in Denmark (from 122% to 108%) and Sweden (from 112% to 106%).
GDP per Capita: More Pronounced Differences
GDP per capita, another important indicator expressed in PPS, showed even greater divergences. Luxembourg topped the list with 237% of the EU average, followed by Ireland (213%) and the Netherlands (133%). On the lower end, Bulgaria, Greece, and Latvia reported the lowest levels at 64%, 69%, and 70%, respectively.
Trends in GDP per Capita between 2021 and 2023
An analysis of GDP per capita relative to the EU average reveals mixed trends. While 12 countries experienced notable increases, such as Portugal (from 74% to 81%) and Spain (from 85% to 91%), others faced significant declines, including Luxembourg (from 260% to 237%) and Ireland (from 226% to 213%).
Source: Eurostat PPP