According to the latest data, wages in Croatia and Slovenia continued to rise on an annual basis in June 2025, though monthly movements were more moderate. In Croatia, average net earnings reached EUR 1,444, while in Slovenia, average net earnings stood at EUR 1,611. Both countries recorded solid year-on-year increases, with wage dynamics shaped by sectoral performance and broader economic conditions. This comes in a regional context where inflation pressures are easing, but wage growth remains a key driver of domestic demand.
Croatia
In June 2025, the average monthly net earnings in Croatia amounted to EUR 1,444, down 0.5% MoM both in nominal and real terms, but still up 9.8% YoY nominally and 5.9% in real terms. Gross earnings stood at EUR 2,008, also 0.5% lower than in May, but 10.4% higher YoY. Median net earnings were EUR 1,233, slightly below May but still 11.5% higher YoY. The highest net wages were recorded in air transport (EUR 2,279), while the lowest were in the manufacture of wearing apparel (EUR 926). On the gross side, air transport led with EUR 3,317, while apparel manufacturing recorded the lowest at EUR 1,212. These developments point to strong yearly growth, though with short-term volatility. Inflation in Croatia remains among the highest in the EU, with a persistent upward trend adding pressure on real incomes, yet overall price dynamics are relatively stable in a regional context. Supported by solid wage growth and stable employment, domestic demand continues to act as a key growth driver for the Croatian economy.
Average monthly gross and net earnings in Croatia (Jan 2021 – Jun 2025, EUR)
Source: DZS, InterCapital Research
Slovenia
In Slovenia, average gross earnings for June 2025 reached EUR 2,541, up 1.3% MoM in nominal terms and 0.5% in real terms. Net earnings stood at EUR 1,611, increasing 1.2% nominally and 0.4% in real terms versus May. On an annual basis, gross wages were 7.2% higher in nominal terms and 5.1% in real terms, while net wages advanced 7.1% nominally and 5.0% in real terms. Public sector earnings grew more strongly than those in the private sector, reflecting the impact of the reformed wage system introduced in early 2025. The highest wages were registered in electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply (EUR 3,629 gross and EUR 2,260 net), while the lowest were in accommodation and food service activities (EUR 1,852 gross and EUR 1,209 net). Slovenia’s wage growth is thus broad-based and supported by structural reforms, while employment conditions remain stable, underpinning consumer confidence.
Average monthly gross and net earnings in Slovenia (Jan 2023 – Jun 2025, EUR)
Source: DZS, InterCapital Research
Conclusion
Wages in both Croatia and Slovenia recorded solid annual increases in June 2025, confirming that wage growth remains a defining feature of the regional labour market. While Croatia posted a monthly decline, yearly dynamics are firmly positive, supported by stable employment and sectoral resilience. Our macro outlook suggests that this wage momentum will continue to underpin domestic demand, but the challenge ahead lies in balancing persistent labour cost growth with competitiveness in export-oriented sectors, particularly as inflation in parts of the region remains elevated.