EU Consumption and GDP per Capita Vary Widely in 2023

In 2023, actual individual consumption (AIC) per capita, measured in purchasing power standards (PPS), ranged from 70% to 138% of the EU average across the 27 member countries. AIC encompasses all goods and services used by households, whether purchased directly, or provided by government or nonprofit organizations, serving as a key indicator of household material welfare.

According to the latest data on purchasing power parities (PPP), ten EU countries reported AIC per capita above the EU average. Luxembourg led with AIC 38% above the average, followed by Austria and the Netherlands, both at 17% above. Conversely, 17 countries fell below the average, with Hungary at the lowest (30% below), followed by Bulgaria (27%), and both Slovakia and Latvia (25%).

In terms of gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, Luxembourg and Ireland topped the list, with Luxembourg 139% and Ireland 111% above the EU average. Eleven countries exceeded the average GDP per capita, including the Netherlands (30% above). Bulgaria, Greece, and Latvia recorded the lowest GDP per capita, at 36%, 33%, and 29% below the EU average, respectively.

These findings highlight significant economic disparities across the EU, reflecting varied levels of material welfare and economic activity among member states.