Luxembourg has become the best in Europe for childless couples
Frank van Hulst, Unsplash
According to a recent study by independent portal Credwise, Luxembourg ranks first in the ranking of European countries most favourable for couples without children where both partners work - the so-called DINKs (Dual Income, No Kids). Against the background of growing individualism, late parenthood and career priorities, this model of life is becoming increasingly popular, and Luxembourg is its new capital.
Credwise analysed data from Eurostat, Numbeo and Expatistan to compare average household income, cost of living and purchasing power across the EU and EFTA. The result:
- The average combined income of a DINK couple in Luxembourg is €99,472 per year.
- Cost of Living Index - 62.4 (moderate level).
- The overall score is 1,594.12, which puts it ahead of even Switzerland, where income is higher (€160,270) but the cost of living is the highest in Europe (index: 101.1).
The Netherlands, Ireland, Iceland and Germany were also in the top five. Belgium ranked tenth and France was not even in the top 10.
Expert William Bergmark of Credwise explains the attractiveness of Luxembourg for DINK couples: "Luxembourg offers a unique combination of high income and reasonable expenses. DINK couples receive a double income, share expenses and avoid child-related costs. This creates special financial advantages over singles and families with children."
The study, however, does not address the key problems facing Luxembourg - primarily the housing crisis. High rental and purchase prices often eat up a significant portion of income, even for wealthy couples, and inequality between income levels is only growing.
Moreover, the demographic outlook is worrying: the country's fertility rate is one of the lowest in Europe. In 2023, there will be an average of 1.25 children per woman - almost half as many as half a century ago. This means not only an ageing population, but also a structural labour shortage in the future - a problem that high comfort levels for childless couples do not solve.
