Over 5.7 Million Italians Living in Absolute Poverty, Istat Reports
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More than 5.7 million people were living in conditions of absolute poverty in Italy in 2024, according to data released Tuesday by the national statistics agency Istat.
The figures show that 2.2 million households — equivalent to 8.4% of all Italian families — were unable to afford the minimum standard of living last year. The total number of individuals affected represents 9.8% of the national population, a marginal increase from 9.7% in 2023.
Istat noted that while the overall share of families in absolute poverty remained broadly stable, disparities persist across demographic groups. The incidence of absolute poverty climbs to 30.4% among families with at least one foreign national and to 35.2% among households composed entirely of non-Italians. By contrast, the rate drops to 6.2% for families made up solely of Italian citizens.
The report also highlights the impact on younger generations: 1.283 million minors — or 13.8% of all Italians under 18 — were living in absolute poverty in 2024.
Istat defines “absolute poverty” as the inability to afford goods and services considered essential for a dignified standard of living, such as adequate housing, nutrition, clothing, and healthcare.
