Who Counts as Rich in Europe? A Comparative Analysis of Income Thresholds and Wealth Concentration Across 30 Countries (EU-27 + EFTA, 2024)

This study and accompanying data visualizations were produced by the accounting software BuchhaltungsButler in collaboration with the analysts at DataPulse Research. It presents a standardized cross-national comparison of income thresholds required to enter the top 10 % of earners across 30 European countries (EU-27 + EFTA), based on Eurostat EU-SILC (2024) and OECD equivalence scales. The study estimates both nominal and purchasing-power-adjusted income levels for a standardized three-person household and quantifies the share of total national income concentrated within the richest decile. Results highlight substantial disparities: while the top-income threshold reaches €175 000 in Luxembourg, it falls below €20 000 in Turkey. In several European economies, the top 10 % capture 25–36 % of all household income, reflecting a strong concentration of economic power. All values are expressed in euros and adjusted for comparability. Full analysis: What it takes to be rich in EuropeSource: Eurostat, OECD