Down salaries, fewer jobs. What happens to the labor market?
In May 2025, salaries and employment in the enterprise sector fell. The average gross wage decreased by 4.1 percent, and the number of full -time jobs was lower in both monthly and annual terms.
The latest GUS data is not optimistic. In May 2025, salaries and employment in the enterprise sector fell.
“The average monthly gross salary in the enterprise sector in May 2025 was 8.4 % higher than last year,” the Central Statistical Office (GUS) said in today’s communiqué.
It’s just that the analysis carried out by the Central Statistical Office also shows, in May 2025, the average gross monthly salary in the enterprise sector fell nominally compared to the previous month by 4.1 percent. So we earn more than a year ago, but less than in April.
CSO – May without additional payments
“The reduction in the level of remuneration was influenced by a smaller scale of additional payments that took place in the previous month, including discretionary and motivational awards, quarterly and annual bonuses, jubilee awards, as well as retirement briefings (which, apart from basic salaries, are also included in the remuneration components)” – indicates the Central Statistical Office.
The reduction of these one -off benefits that significantly raised the average wage level in April contributed to the visible reduction in the average salary in May. In an annual basis, however, the salaries still remain higher, which suggests the persistent pay pressure in the economy.
Employment in May according to CSO data
According to data published by the Central Statistical Office, in May 2025, average employment in the enterprise sector amounted to 6433.3 thousand. full -time jobs. This means that May employment in this area recorded a decrease of 0.2 percent. compared to April this year. Unfortunately, this is not the only decline – the number of employees was lower not only on a monthly basis, but also annual. Compared to May 2024, employment decreased by 0.8 percent.
Such a trend may indicate growing difficulties on the labor market, resulting, among others from the deteriorating economic situation, a more cautious approach of companies to new recruitment or restructuring processes.
