BAKU — September 2, 2025.
Azerbaijani households are showing steady financial progress, with incomes outpacing expenses for the first time since 2021, according to a new study by the Center for Media Analysis (CMA) based on official state statistics.
Compared with the first half of 2021, household incomes have risen 33.6% (398.5 manats), while expenses grew by 25% (311.5 manats). Analysts say the widening gap reflects the growing financial stability of Azerbaijani families.
In the first six months of 2025, average monthly household income reached 1,583.4 manats, up 7.6% year-on-year. Expenses rose more modestly, by 4.9%, to 1,557.4 manats. For the first time in years, the average family was able to cover all costs and still save a small surplus.
Spending patterns: food first, but lifestyle changing
Food remains the largest household expense, averaging 668.7 manats per month, or 42.9% of total spending.
Other major expenses include:
Utilities: 127.4 manats (8.2%)
Restaurants and hotels: 114.8 manats — a sign of changing habits and a growing middle class
Transport: 106 manats
Healthcare: 67 manats
Clothing: 93.4 manats
Education: 26.4 manats
Tobacco and alcohol: 41.1 manats
The inclusion of dining, hospitality, and leisure spending among the top categories suggests an emerging consumer culture beyond basic needs.
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Rising incomes, falling poverty
Per capita monthly income rose to 377.9 manats in early 2025, up 8.6% from last year. Over the past five years, it has climbed by more than 31%, a trend officials attribute to state-led policies aimed at raising living standards.
Importantly, the average per capita income now exceeds the official poverty line of 270 manats by more than 100 manats.
According to the State Statistics Committee, poverty in Azerbaijan stood at just 5.3% in 2024, the lowest in the South Caucasus. By contrast, Georgia’s poverty rate was 9.4% last year, while Armenia reported 23.7% in 2023.
A regional leader
Analysts say Azerbaijan’s success reflects a combination of targeted social support, sustained economic growth, and investment in infrastructure. The figures highlight Baku’s position as a regional leader in reducing poverty while balancing household budgets against rising global costs.
