In 2004, when both countries joined the community, Poland's nominal gross domestic product was USD 256.27 billion and Hungary's USD 104.02 billion.
Although the Polish economy was larger, Hungary was ahead of Poland on a per capita basis. At that time, Statistics Hungary generated PLN 10,291 thousand. dollars, while the Pole 6,711 thousand. hole.
Two decades later, the situation looks completely different. In 2024, Polish GDP reached USD 917.77 billion, which means that it was more than four times larger than the Hungarian GDP, which amounted to USD 222.72 billion. In terms of per capita, Poland also overtook Hungary – GDP per capita amounted to PLN 25,103 thousand, respectively. hole. in Poland and 23,292 thousand hole. in Hungary.
Crisis resistance is the key to success
Poland's economic growth was not only faster, but also more resistant to global crises. In 2009when the world was struggling with the worst financial crisis in decades, Polish economy was the only one in the European Union to record growth – GDP increased by 2.6 percent. Meanwhile, Hungary fell into a deep recession and its economy shrank by 6.7%.
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A similar scenario occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, the Polish economy shrank by 2%, but the Hungarian recession was more than twice as deep – GDP fell by 4.3%.
The year 2023 turned out to be slightly more stable, although the effects of the Russian invasion of Ukraine were strongly felt throughout Europe. At that time, Poland recorded minimal economic growth of 0.2 percent, while Hungarian GDP decreased by 0.8 percent.
In 2024, the growth dynamics in both countries differed again – the Polish economy grew by 3% and the Hungarian economy by 0.6%.
Unemployment: Poland is catching up
Differences in economic development are also visible in the labor market. In 2004, Poland struggled with double-digit unemployment, which amounted to as much as 18.8 percent, while in Hungary it was relatively low and amounted to 5.8 percent.
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Today the situation is completely different. In 2025, the unemployment rate in Poland was 3% and in Hungary 4.5%.
