The proportion of people at risk of poverty or social exclusion in Catalonia has risen to 24.8%, reversing a downward trend observed since 2020. According to new data released by the Statistical Institute of Catalonia (Idescat), nearly one in four residents found themselves in this precarious situation in 2025. This represents an increase of 0.8 percentage points compared to the previous year.
Therefore, the figures indicate a widening gap in social wellbeing. This particularly affects children and immigrant communities, despite a general increase in average household income.
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Breaking the positive trend
The latest statistics mark a shift in momentum for the region. After peaking at 26.7% in 2020, the poverty risk in Catalonia had been steadily declining. However, the 2025 data shows a resurgence in vulnerability.
Specifically, the risk of poverty alone reached 18.9% of the population. This is a significant jump of 1.5 points from 2024. Meanwhile, 8.9% of the population reported severe material and social deprivation, a slight increase of 0.3 points.
Children and immigrants hit hardest
The data highlights a concerning demographic divide. The situation has deteriorated most sharply among those under 16 years of age. Here, the poverty risk rate has climbed to 36.1%, an increase of 1.3 points. In contrast, the rate among retirees stands at 13.1%.
Citizenship also plays a major role in economic stability. Among the immigrant population, 48.6% are at risk of poverty or exclusion. This compares to 17.2% of Spanish nationals. Consequently, this gap has widened, with the rate for immigrants jumping by nearly six points in a single year.
Household struggles despite higher incomes
While average net household income in Catalonia rose by 4.6% to €43,889, this growth has not alleviated the pressure on many families. In fact, nearly half of the population (47.3%) admitted to having difficulty making ends meet.
Financial resilience remains low for a significant portion of residents:
- 35.5% cannot afford an unexpected expense of €900.
- 29.4% cannot afford a one-week annual holiday.
Furthermore, inequality persists. The wealthiest 20% of households earn 4.7 times more than the poorest 20%.
Government and social sector reaction
Mònica Martínez Bravo, the Catalan Minister of Social Rights and Inclusion, acknowledged that the figures “are not positive.” However, she noted that the statistics do not yet reflect the impact of recent social measures implemented by the executive. She reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring shared prosperity. Additionally, she is considering studying a new child-specific benefit similar to the Minimum Vital Income (IMV).
Meanwhile, the figures have sparked concern among social organisations. The Taula del Tercer Sector, an association of third-sector entities, warned that the situation is critical. Its president, Xavier Trabado, called for urgent action. He specifically advocated for a universal child benefit to combat the high rates of poverty among minors.
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