Pensioners campaign for a raise. File photo. Credit: AMNA
Data from the “Ilios” pension system for September confirms the severe financial pressure on Greek pensioners, revealing that nearly six out of every ten (58.75%) main retirement pensions are paid at an amount less than €1,000 (approx. $1,080) per month.
The figures, analyzed by the Greek financial daily Naftemboriki, underscore the size of the challenge facing retirees, particularly those entering the system from the private sector.
Pension disparity: Private vs. public sector
The report highlights a significant disparity between new pensions from the public and private sectors, illustrating the impact of prolonged high unemployment and low wages in the private economy.
The Overall Average Main Pension across all categories stood at €845.22 (approx. $912.84) in September.
New Private Sector Pensions average significantly lower at €770.23 (approx. $831.85).
In contrast, New Public Sector Pensions averaged €1,359.55 (approx. $1,468.31).
This created a substantial gap of €589.32 (approx. $636.46) between the average new public and private sector main pensions. Specifically, 1,143,782 main retirement pensions—representing 58.75% of the total—were below €1,000 (approx. $1,080) gross.
Pensioner population and demographics in Greece
The number of pensioners in Greece continues to show a steady upward trend, both monthly and annually.
The total number of pensioners reached 2,517,412 in September, a rise of 20,292 compared to September 2024.
Of the 1,932,225 recipients of at least one main retirement pension, 53.27% are men. However, women account for the overwhelming majority of death/survivor pensions, at 90.95% of the total.
More than half of the country’s pensioners (54.4%) fall within the 66 to 80 age bracket. The largest single group is the 71–75 age bracket.
The highest average pension income (€1,131.02 / approx. $1,221.50) is paradoxically received by the younger pensioner cohort aged 61–65 years.
Related: Greek Pension Crisis Deepens: Average Pensions Fall Below €800