Among EU countries, the severe material and social deprivation rates varied widely. Romania recorded the highest rate at 19.8%, followed by Bulgaria (18.0%), Greece (13.5%), Hungary (10.4%) and Spain (9.0%).

By contrast, Slovenia (2.0%), Cyprus (2.4%), Sweden, Luxembourg and Estonia (all at 2.5%) reported the lowest rates.

Source dataset: ilc_mdsd11

For more information

• Statistics Explained article on living conditions in Europe – material deprivation and economic strain
• Thematic section on income and living conditions
• Database on income and living conditions

Methodological notes

• Material and social deprivation refers to the inability to afford a set of specific goods, services or social activities that are considered by most people essential for an adequate quality of life. Persons unable to afford 7 or more of these are in severe material and social deprivation.
• The severe material and social deprivation indicator (SMSD) is part of the at risk of poverty or social exclusion rate (AROPE).

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