In 2024, the average Serbian household was “short” by 460 dinars every month, with expenses outpacing income. The latest data from the Republic Statistical Office (RZS) reveal that food and drink remain the largest monthly expenditure, followed by housing costs and utilities, such as electricity, water, and gas.
Households in the red
According to the RZS, the average household income in 2024 was 97,705 dinars, including in-kind income like homegrown vegetables or firewood. However, average monthly expenditures were 98,165 dinars, meaning households were spending more than they earned by nearly 460 dinars.
Although household incomes increased by 11.1% in 2024 compared to the previous year, expenditures grew by 11.2%, showing that higher income didn’t necessarily ease the financial burden.
Urban vs. rural household expenditures
Expenditures in urban areas were higher than in rural areas. Urban households spent an average of 99,723 dinars (a 10.9% increase compared to 2023), while rural households had expenditures of 95,290 dinars (a 12% increase).
Income sources and spending priorities
The largest portion of household income came from regular employment (53.4%), followed by pensions (30.6%). The remainder of household income came from agriculture (3.9%), irregular work (2.3%), and social security (2.3%).
When it comes to spending, the biggest chunk of the household budget went to food and non-alcoholic beverages (36.6%), followed by housing and utilities (16.3%). Transport accounted for 8.9%, while other personal expenses and services were 5.9%. Other notable expenditures included communications (5.4%), recreation and culture (5.2%), clothing and footwear (4.7%), alcohol and tobacco (4.4%), and health (4.1%).
Limited spending on health, education and culture
The RZS data reveal that, despite an increase in income, citizens continue to prioritize basic necessities like food and utilities, while expenditures on health, education, and culture remain low. Health-related spending accounted for only 4.1% of the household budget, while education and cultural expenditures were not considered essential, with culture and recreation making up only 5.2%. This indicates limited investment in quality of life and personal enrichment.
In conclusion, while household incomes are on the rise, the majority of Serbian families are facing increased living costs, leaving little room for discretionary spending on non-essential items like health care, education or leisure activities.
