The report, based on data from Poland's Central Statistical Office (GUS), found that average gross wages — currently around PLN 9,100 (EUR 2,140) per month — could purchase between 0.59 and 0.85 square meters of new housing across major Polish cities in Q1 2026. Affordability in Warsaw has worsened year-on-year, with Gdańsk showing a similar trend — its affordability index falling from around 0.72 sq m in 2022 to roughly 0.61 sq m.
"Data shows that in many metropolitan areas, despite relatively stable price-to-income ratios, the average purchasing power of residents is steadily declining", said Marek Wielgo of RynekPierwotny.pl.
Cities with a broader supply mix fared better. Kraków's affordability improved from around 0.61 sq m in late 2023 to 0.71 sq m, driven partly by more budget-friendly units entering the market. Wrocław reached approximately 0.66 sq m, while Łódź posted the largest annual gain at around 0.76 sq m. Katowice recorded the highest affordability nationally at 0.85 sq m, though slightly down from the prior quarter. Poznan saw purchasing power slip to 0.69 sq m, below year-earlier levels.
The report identifies the composition of developer offerings as the key differentiating factor. In cities where premium-segment properties account for a growing share of supply, wage growth is failing to keep pace with rising average prices.
"The absence of a 'price bubble' does not yet mean a market friendly to average earners", Wielgo said.
(jh)
Source: PAP