The average monthly wage in Poland has seen significant increases as reported by the Central Statistical Office (GUS). For the fourth quarter of 2024, the average gross salary reached 8,477.21 PLN, highlights GUS in its latest statement.
This figure marks a noteworthy year-over-year increase of 12.4% from 7,540.36 PLN recorded for the same period in 2023. When compared to the previous quarter, the increase stands at 3.9%. The average gross wage across the national economy for the entirety of 2024 was reported as 8,181.72 PLN.
GUS elaborated on these findings, indicating a real wage growth of 9.5% when factoring out inflation between 2023 and 2024. This substantial increment is noteworthy within the broader economic framework and reflects improved economic conditions compared to previous years.
These wage statistics also play a role beyond simple employment metrics; they help determine upper limits for public financial assistance allocated to agricultural producer groups registered prior to April 30, 2004. GUS clarified these wages comprise both base salaries and various additional compensation components, such as bonuses, vacation payouts, and overtime pay.
Though the wage figures present an optimistic outlook, they come against the backdrop of changing expectations among the workforce. According to another recent report from the Labor Market Monitor, conducted by Randstad Institute and Pollster Research Institute, the percentage of employees seeking wage increases has seen a decline from 59% to 53% between 2024 and 2025.
Gender disparities are evident, as the desire for pay raises is more pronounced among male employees at 56% compared to 49% among women. Interestingly, managerial positions report the highest expectations for pay increases, with 78% of supervisors and 64% of senior managers expressing hope for salary increments. Conversely, only 43% of drivers and specialists are optimistic about wage hikes, reflecting minimal enthusiasm for change.
The declining expectations around wage increases are influenced by various factors, including the earlier received raises and bonuses which met many employees' expectations. Monika Hryniszyn, the Regional HR Leader for Northern Europe at Randstad, noted the increasing availability of non-wage benefits as another contributing factor. Hryniszyn emphasized the impact of decreased inflation rates, which have made wage increases more tangible for household budgets.
The slow growth of the minimum wage, compared to rapid increases witnessed over previous years, is also shaping the views of employees across sectors. Robert Lisicki, director of the Labor Department for the Lewiatan Confederation, highlighted how this trend affects the broader labor market, especially since many more employees are now receiving the minimum wage due to its rising application scope.
Based on the newly published GUS data, it becomes evident how the average wage increase not only signifies economic growth but also reveals shifting sentiment among the workforce concerning future pay expectations. The rise of 12.4% year-over-year paints a picture of optimism within the Polish economy, yet the decreasing number of employees expecting raises calls for attention. It's clear both businesses and policymakers will need to monitor these trends as they plan for the future, ensuring wage growth continues to meet or exceed the changing living costs and employee expectations.