Romania has recorded the highest growth in income per capita in the EU, with 134% between 2004 and 2024, according to Eurostat

According to Eurostat data, Romania had the highest growth in real income per capita in the European Union, with a growth of 134% between 2004 and 2024. This compares favorably with other countries, such as Lithuania (95%), Poland (91%), and Malta (90%). Although income per capita in the EU grew steadily between 2004 and 2008, it stagnated during the financial crisis and decreased in 2012 and 2013, before resuming an upward trajectory.

In 2020, the pandemic led to a temporary decline, but in 2021 income began to rise again. In contrast, Greece and Italy recorded declines of -5% and -4% during this period. Adjusted gross disposable income per capita reflects the money available for spending and savings, after taxation, and also includes free services provided by the state.