While this marks a decrease from the 61% recorded in 2023, it remains higher than the 44% reported in 2022. Looking ahead, optimism among workers has grown: 81% expect some form of salary package increase this year, compared to 74% last year. However, companies are taking a more cautious approach in 2025, according to the survey.
The survey found that the most common salary increase last year ranged between HUF 20,000 and HUF 50,000 per month, affecting 38% of respondents. Additionally, 27% received an increase of less than HUF 20,000, while 10% saw their salaries rise between HUF 50,000 and HUF 100,000. Another 10% reported even larger raises. As in previous years, employees at foreign-owned companies were the most likely to receive a salary increase, with 69% benefiting from a raise in 2024.
While direct salary increases were less frequent in 2024 compared to 2023, employers compensated by providing more regular benefits and one-time bonuses. The share of employees receiving additional regular benefits increased from 8% to 12%, while those receiving one-time lump sum payments rose from 14% to 23%.
Looking ahead, workers remain hopeful: 48% expect a pay raise in 2025, 14% anticipate a one-time bonus, and 7% foresee an increase in their benefits package. However, 19% do not expect any improvement in their compensation this year. Among those anticipating a salary hike, 29% expect an increase of up to HUF 20,000, while 37% foresee a raise between HUF 20,000 and HUF 50,000.
Despite increased expectations, many employees remain skeptical about the adequacy of the raises they may receive.
“Following last year’s wave of salary increases, a growing number of employees are anticipating further raises. While 74% expected a pay raise in 2024, that figure has climbed to 81% for 2025. However, employers appear more cautious, with only 60% planning salary adjustments. Additionally, 64% of workers expecting a raise believe it will not be sufficient, compared to only 50% last year,” said Blanka Dencső, market research and business development expert at Profession.hu.
To help both employers and employees navigate salary expectations, Profession.hu offers insights through its latest Job Report, providing up-to-date labor market data for businesses. Meanwhile, the Profession Premium platform helps employees better understand wage trends in their respective fields.
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