Survey: One in Three Estonian Workers Feels Underpaid

A significant majority of Estonian employees, 77%, are unhappy with their current pay, according to a new survey. While this represents a slight improvement from the previous year, the dissatisfaction remains high, with 31% of workers feeling their salary is unfairly low.

The study, conducted by CV.ee, reveals that a further 46% of respondents believe they deserve higher compensation, underscoring a widespread sentiment that current wages do not match contributions or market value. Only 18% of employees feel their work is adequately compensated.

Several factors contribute to this widespread wage dissatisfaction. The rising cost of living in Estonia has outpaced salary growth, leaving many workers feeling the pinch. Additionally, increased awareness of market rates, fueled by regular job postings, has led employees to perceive their current salaries as below the average.

Employees are expressing considerable expectations for pay raises. The largest group anticipates an 11-15% increase, while nearly a quarter are seeking 16-20%. Notably, 12% of workers are demanding raises exceeding 26%, indicating a strong feeling of being significantly underpaid.

"Even in an employer's market, retaining talent is strategically important," stated Andra Rand, Recruitment Manager at CV-Online Recruitment Services. "If employees feel their pay doesn't match their contribution, they will eventually start looking elsewhere, and the vast majority of the workforce is doing so right now."

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Even in an employer's market, retaining talent is strategically important. If employees feel their pay doesn't match their contribution, they will eventually start looking elsewhere, and the vast majority of the workforce is doing so right now.