49% in North Macedonia say they live better than their parents, 2023 survey

Nearly half of respondents in North Macedonia say they live better than their parents, a 2023 survey by Brima International found: 49 percent said they live better, 35 percent said they live worse, and 15 percent said their standard of living is the same as their parents'.

“They have more opportunities, they can start earning as young people, they come to certain funds and probably that's why they think they live better than their parents, but they do not have many opportunities to create capital. They probably see a better life in enjoyment, going out, entertainment, traveling abroad,” said Lidija Ilijevska, a sociologist who commented on the results.

Young people point to new income paths and mobility

Among younger respondents the possibility of freelance work, short-term contracts and online sales figures prominently. Magdalena Zdraveska of the Local Act association in Makedonski Brod described how internet platforms and informal gigs have expanded income sources for many.

“My personal view is that we have better conditions today. Unlike our parents we have more options regarding housing, travel is largely accessible, we have traveled more than our parents, we can provide more for our children, and regarding jobs, parents worked in factories, had guaranteed employment, but on the other hand someone who today wants to work, I believe can find even two jobs, is not limited by where they live, if nothing else they can at least earn pocket money. There is enough access to training, workshops for soft skills development. There are people who make handmade products and sell them online, which wasn't the case before,” Zdraveska said.

The survey places North Macedonia alongside Greece and Slovenia, where 49 percent of respondents also said they live better than their parents. Kosovo recorded one of the highest shares at 80 percent, while Serbia registered 54 percent.

Other international figures cited by the poll include: Croatia 45 percent; Vietnam 83 percent; Moldova, where 45 percent said they live worse than their parents; Nigeria 81 percent; South Korea 75 percent; the United Arab Emirates 74 percent; Bolivia 66 percent; the United States 60 percent; Mexico 57 percent; Russia 48 percent; and India 54 percent.

The results highlight a generational divide in how “better living” is defined: many young people point to consumption, travel and flexible income, while analysts warn that opportunities to accumulate long-term capital remain limited.

Photo: press material from the event