Greece ranks worst in EU as half its population cannot afford unexpected expenses
More than half of Greece’s population is unable to cover unexpected financial expenses, placing the country at the bottom of the European Union rankings for financial security, according to 2025 Eurostat data.
The figures, reported by Greek newspaper EfSyn on November 13, show that 50.5% of people in Greece cannot afford unforeseen costs, highlighting the financial pressures facing households across the country.
The EU average stood at 29.2% in 2025, down from 30% in 2024, indicating a modest improvement in the bloc’s overall financial resilience.
Greece recorded the highest rate among EU member states, followed by Latvia at 43.7% and Bulgaria at 42.4%. The Netherlands reported the lowest figure at 15.3%, while Malta and Czechia each recorded 18.7%.
GREEK HOUSEHOLDS STRUGGLE WITH DEBT AND BILLS
The financial difficulties extend beyond unexpected expenses, with many households also struggling to meet regular financial obligations.
According to the report, 41.8% of people in Greece face difficulties paying rent, mortgages and consumer loans on time. The corresponding EU figure is approximately 9%, based on the national statistics cited by EfSyn.
Greece also remains among the lowest-ranking EU countries in terms of actual individual consumption, an indicator of household purchasing power.
While the EU average stands at 100 purchasing power standard (PPS) units per capita and the eurozone average at 103, Greece records just 80 units.
This places Greek households at a considerable disadvantage compared with much of Europe, including several EU member states in the Balkans.
HOUSING AND ENERGY COSTS DEEPEN FINANCIAL PRESSURES
The report points to high housing and energy costs, alongside inflation affecting essential goods and services, as major factors undermining household financial security.
With a substantial share of household income absorbed by rent, energy bills and everyday necessities, many families have limited opportunities to save or prepare for unexpected expenses.
Unforeseen healthcare and education costs can further intensify these pressures, particularly when public services do not sufficiently cover such expenses.
The findings highlight the continuing gap between Greece and other EU member states in household financial resilience and overall living standards.
