Gini Coefficient Across EU Member States
Measure of income inequality (0=equal, 100=unequal)
The Gini coefficient is the standard statistical measure of income inequality, ranging from 0 (perfect equality, where everyone earns the same) to 100 (maximum inequality). High Gini values are associated with weaker social cohesion, higher crime, and reduced intergenerational mobility. EU cohesion policy and structural funds partly target regions where inequality risks entrenching poverty traps.
All 27 EU Member States Ranked
↓ LOWER IS BETTERData for this indicator is not yet available. Check back soon as we update our database regularly.
What This Indicator Means
Income inequality within EU member states, as measured by the Gini coefficient, ranges from the relatively equal Nordic societies (Gini around 27–28) to more unequal Southern and Eastern European economies (Gini above 35). Inequality within countries can be as important as inequality between countries for social cohesion and political stability.
The EU's Social Scoreboard monitors Gini trends as part of the European Semester, and persistent high inequality triggers recommendations for improved social transfers, minimum wage policy, and progressive tax reform. The minimum wage directive adopted in 2022 requires member states to develop frameworks ensuring adequate minimum wages, partly addressing wage inequality at the bottom of the distribution.
Research consistently links high inequality with lower intergenerational mobility, reduced trust in institutions, and higher political polarisation. For businesses, highly unequal societies can offer a bifurcated consumer market — luxury goods at the top, discount at the bottom — but weaker middle-market demand than more equal peers.