11.11.2026 09:50
Initial estimates regarding the 2027 minimum wage increase, eagerly awaited by millions of workers, have come to the agenda. While it was stated that a 30 percent increase scenario is being discussed in Ankara backrooms, it was calculated that if this rate is implemented, the net minimum wage could rise to 36,498 liras.
Expectations regarding the 2027 minimum wage have begun to rise as the end of the year approaches. The increase in basic living expenses, especially rent, food, and transportation, has caused millions of employees to focus on the wage increase to be made in the new year. Recent claims reported from Ankara backrooms have highlighted the possibility of a 30 percent increase in the minimum wage.
HUNGER THRESHOLD HAS SURPASSED THE MINIMUM WAGE
Türkiye Gazetesi columnist and SGK expert İsa Karakaş evaluated the current situation of the minimum wage and expectations for 2027 in his column.
According to Türk-İş data shared by Karakaş, the hunger threshold reached 38,024 lira, the monthly living cost of a single employee reached 49,124 lira, and the poverty threshold reached 123,856 lira. Thus, the difference between the current net minimum wage of 28,075 lira 50 kuruş and the hunger threshold rose to approximately 9,949 lira.
Karakaş argued that the minimum wage has moved away from being a wage paid only to newly employed workers and has turned into an average income level for a broad segment. He drew attention to the fact that especially families with children are having more difficulty in the face of rising living costs.
30 PERCENT INCREASE SCENARIO IS BEING DISCUSSED IN ANKARA BACKROOMS
In estimates that have come onto the agenda for 2027, a 30 percent increase rate stood out. İsa Karakaş, pointing to the expectation that annual inflation may approach 30 percent toward the end of the year, reported that a similar rate of wage increase is being discussed in Ankara backrooms. While there is not yet an official proposal or finalized increase rate, calculations based on the possibility of a 30 percent increase have also revealed the amount employees could receive in the new year.
IF A 30 PERCENT INCREASE IS MADE, WHAT WILL THE MINIMUM WAGE BE?
- Current net wage: 28,075.50 TL
- Estimated net wage: 36,498.15 TL
- Estimated gross wage: 42,939 TL
- Estimated net increase: 8,422.65 TL
In the calculation, the gross wage of 33,030 lira valid for 2026 was taken as the basis. It was stated that with a 30 percent increase, the gross wage will reach 42,939 lira, and after 14 percent SGK employee premium and 1 percent unemployment insurance premium deductions, the net wage will be 36,498 lira 15 kuruş.
THE FINAL DECISION WILL BE MADE BY THE MINIMUM WAGE DETERMINATION COMMISSION
To determine the minimum wage to be applied in 2027, eyes have turned to the Minimum Wage Determination Commission meetings expected to be held at the end of the year. In the talks to be held with the participation of worker, employer, and government representatives, inflation, economic indicators, and the living conditions of employees will be evaluated.