In January, the “net” salary after taxes in Kazakhstan, according to Numbeo analysts, amounted to $585 (260.8 thousand tenge), according to Numbeo analysts. While this figure diverges from recent data by the Bureau of National Statistics of the ASPiR of the Republic of Kazakhstan, it closely aligns with the official median salary. This places Kazakhstan in a group of outsiders among 97 countries surveyed by Numbeo, highlighting disparities with many European and Asian nations.
Comparing Kazakhstan to Switzerland, where average salaries after taxes are 11.3 times higher, reveals stark differences. Despite good housing conditions, Switzerland faces challenges with high real estate costs, with only 38.2% of the population owning homes. In contrast, Kazakhstan’s ratio of real estate value to income is 10.9, reflecting affordability challenges similar to Switzerland.
Switzerland’s high cost of living extends to housing rentals, kindergarten fees, and everyday expenses, with prices significantly surpassing those in Kazakhstan. Despite higher prices, Swiss salaries, being substantial, do not necessarily translate to more considerable consumer spending. Kazakhstan’s share of food expenses in household budgets remains high, at 55.3% in the third quarter of 2023, worsening from the previous year.
The comparative data sheds light on Kazakhstan’s economic standing and underscores the need for addressing disparities in living costs and wages.
