Kazakhstan to raise living wage in 2026

Tengrinews.kz – Kazakhstan’s living wage will increase next year under the three-year state budget approved by Parliament, according to the national correspondent.

In 2025, the living wage stands at 46,228 tenge. In 2026, it will rise to 50,851 tenge.

What the living wage is for

The living wage (PM) represents the amount the state considers necessary for a minimum standard of living — covering essentials such as food, clothing, utilities and other basic needs.

It is used to:

• calculate social assistance, including support for low-income families whose earnings fall below the living wage;
• set minimum living standards and assess whether citizens can meet basic necessities;
• guide budget planning and social policy, including state support programmes;
• serve as a benchmark for certain salaries and payments, including the minimum wage and some state benefits.

As noted earlier, Kazakhstan will also update the monthly calculation index (MCI) from 1 January 2026. The budget additionally sets the minimum wage, minimum pension and the living wage used for calculating basic social payments.