Average monthly gross wages rose by 7.8% YoY in the third quarter of 2021, state agency Statistics Estonia reported, to EUR 1,553.
Statistics Estonia analyst Argo Tarkiainen said that the growth had returned to pre-pandemic levels.
He said: “Whereas last year the growth in wages and salaries was slower, this year it is once again growing faster. In the third quarter, the change in wages was one of the highest in recent years.”
Harju (to EUR 1,700) and Tartu (to EUR 1,531) counties were the regions with the highest average monthly wages, while the highest growth was experienced in Laane and Valga counties, Statistics Estonia said.
Wages fell the most in Polva county.
By economic activity, the average monthly gross wages and salaries were again the highest in information and communications (EUR 2,878), financial and insurance activities (EUR 2,539) and energy (EUR 2,007). The average gross wages were the lowest in accommodation and food service activities (EUR 976), real estate activities (EUR 1,133) and “other service” activities (EUR 1,260).
Average monthly gross wages increased the most in arts, entertainment and recreation (+13.9) and in information and communication (+13.1%). The lowest increase was recorded in the energy sector (+1.5%) and education (+2.6%). (ERR/Business World Magazine)