Nearly 13 million workers across 22 European Union countries earn the minimum wage or less, according to Euronews estimates based on Eurostat data. With minimum wage increases typically taking effect at the start of the year, the beginning of 2026 has once again highlighted the financial impact these adjustments have on millions of employees. As the year begins, Euronews has compiled a list of European countries with the highest minimum wages, revealing a mix of expected leaders and surprising results — especially when EU candidate states are included. IrelandMinimum wage: €2,391Adjusted for PPP: €1,732 (falls to fifth place)Ireland ranks second by nominal minimum wage but drops significantly when adjusted for living costs. SloveniaMinimum wage: €1,278Adjusted for PPP: €1,417Slovenia’s adjusted wage reflects a stronger purchasing power than the nominal figure suggests.

Source: Punch February 06, 2026 14:33 UTC