By Justina Ilkevičiūtė, LRT TV, LRT.lt.
Lithuanians who earn at least €1,128 a month after taxes can already consider themselves part of the European Union’s middle class, according to Luminor Bank economist Žygimantas Mauricas. But not everyone agrees, with some experts arguing the definition oversimplifies economic reality and fails to match people’s lived experience.
The question of what income level constitutes the middle class has long sparked debate in Lithuania. Many residents interviewed in Vilnius said the amount must be far higher to ensure a comfortable life.
For Vytautas, €2,500 after tax would cut it: “Then you could save a little, take a trip to Greece. Prices are rising so fast that by spring we’ll probably need €3,000,” he said, dismissing economists’ calculations.
Margarita said she could meet basic needs with €1,300 a month but would struggle to afford travel. Julija, a young mother, argued that “anything under €2,000” is unrealistic with current prices and family obligations. Aurelija, who retired six months ago, said she believes a middle-class income begins at €2,500.
Even younger residents raised higher thresholds. “About €1,500,” said Nikita. “Not to be rich, but to afford basic things – entertainment, travel – without counting every cent. If you can’t do that, that’s poverty.”
Read more: LRT.LT
