Wages increased across all Serbian regions in the first half of 2026, but substantial differences in average pay continued to separate Belgrade from other parts of the country. The Belgrade region recorded average net earnings of RSD 147,802, equivalent to about €1,260 and 124% of the national average.
Average net pay in Vojvodina stood at RSD 112,691, or around €960, while Southern and Eastern Serbia recorded RSD 104,596, approximately €890. Šumadija and Western Serbia had the lowest regional average at RSD 102,003, or about €870.
Wage growth varies across regions
The fastest annual increase was recorded in Šumadija and Western Serbia, where average wages rose 12.9%. Despite the stronger growth rate, the region remained significantly below Belgrade in average earnings. Wage disparities were also visible at the municipal level. Average pay was below 80% of the national average in 62 municipalities. Preševo recorded the lowest average wage, at RSD 82,401, equivalent to roughly €700.
Regional economic differences remain pronounced
The differences between regions extend beyond earnings. Belgrade accounts for 43.2% of Serbia’s GDP, while representing about 24% of the country’s population. Southern and Eastern Serbia has the smallest share of employment among the regions and the largest share of unemployment. Regional labour-cost differences therefore remain significant, with wages outside Belgrade substantially lower despite faster growth in some areas. Infrastructure, demographic and workforce constraints continue to accompany these regional differences.
