Lone parents, households with children, single working-age adults and renters are the groups most likely to have an income that does not meet their basic expenditure needs, according to a new report from the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI).
The study was published as part of a research programme between the ESRI and the Department of Social Protection and examines how household incomes compare to an independently determined benchmark of the minimum needed to meet essential expenditures in Ireland.
The report found that in 2022, households in Ireland, on average, needed 45% of their disposable weekly income, after housing costs, to cover basic expenditure needs.
Significant disparities exist across different household types with owner-occupiers requiring between 38% and 42% of their income, while those in private rented accommodation need 56%, and those in receipt of rent subsidies need 84% to meet basic needs.
The study found that 11% of people do not live in households that meet their expenditure needs, with children, renters, lone parents, and single working-age adults being the most affected groups.
A significant proportion of individuals living below their expenditure needs are also identified as being in income poverty which means having a household income less than 60% of the median income.
"Although most people live in households that meet their expenditure needs, a higher proportion of children, tenants, lone parents, and single working-age adults do not," said Bertrand Maître, co-author of the report.
"The study highlights the issue of housing and the need for adequate housing support for many tenants," Mr Maître said.
The Department of Social Protection said that while consistent poverty levels are at a historic low, a minority of people are living in households where their expenditure needs are not met.
"Budget 2025 delivered the largest social welfare package in the history of the State including a cost of living package that will provide additional support for households," a department spokesperson said.
