From January 1, Serbia’s minimum wage will increase to €551 (around 64,500 dinars), affecting roughly 90,000 workers. Despite a 10% raise, experts and citizens agree it remains insufficient for a decent standard of living. Most of the income is spent on food, while utility bills and other living costs continue to rise.
Economist Miodrag Zec and other citizens note that surviving on minimum wage often requires sacrifices and compromises, and that it does not allow a dignified or quality life. Families frequently cannot afford basic necessities, leisure, or modest savings. The average consumer basket costs about 108,000 dinars, while labor unions suggest that at least 120,000 dinars is needed for a three-person household. A livable minimum wage, covering basic needs and some savings, is estimated at 150,000 dinars.
Finance Minister Siniša Mali projects that by early 2028, the minimum wage will reach €650. Meanwhile, labor advocates call for lower taxes on minimum wage earners and higher taxation on very high salaries to better balance income and living standards.
