The number of “Ultra-High Net Worth Individuals” (UHNWIs) —defined as those with a net worth of at least $30 million—in Greece has climbed to 910, according to new data. This marks a substantial increase from the 523 individuals recorded in 2021, representing a 74% growth rate over just five years.
The new data from the 2026 Knight Frank Wealth Report comes as Eurostat recently reported that more than one in four people in Greece faced poverty or social exclusion risks, placing the country among the worst performers in the European Union.
This surge reflects a broader trend across the continent. Globally, more than 710,000 people now hold at least $30 million in net wealth, with nearly a quarter—approximately 25.8%—residing in Europe. The total population of the ultra-wealthy on the “Old Continent” rose from 146,525 in 2021 to 183,953 in 2026.
Ultra-rich in Europe
In absolute numbers, Germany remains the undisputed heavyweight of European wealth, leading the pack with 38,215 ultra-wealthy residents. The United Kingdom follows in second place with 27,876, while France rounds out the top three with 21,528. Switzerland and Italy are the only other nations to maintain high five-figure populations, with 17,692 and 15,433 individuals, respectively.
Beyond this top tier, the numbers drop significantly. Spain is home to 9,186 UHNWIs, Sweden hosts 6,845, and the Netherlands has 5,077. Further down the list, countries like Denmark (4,657), Turkey (4,208), Austria (4,188), and Poland (3,017) show a concentrated but growing upper class. Meanwhile, Norway, Czechia, Ireland, and Portugal all fall within the 2,000 to 2,500 range.
While the largest economies hold the most wealth, the fastest growth is occurring in smaller or emerging markets. Poland saw its ultra-wealthy population more than double with a 109% increase, while Turkey and Romania followed closely with growth rates of 94% and 93%. Greece’s 74% increase places it firmly among these high-growth nations.
In contrast, the more established economies showed more modest percentage gains. Wealth in the UK grew by only 12%, while Sweden recorded the lowest growth in the group at 8%.
A shifting economic landscape
Liam Bailey, Head of Research at Knight Frank, noted that we are currently witnessing one of the most significant shifts in the global distribution of wealth in modern history. Although the United States continues to lead the world with 387,422 ultra-wealthy individuals, countries like India and a cluster of rapidly developing nations are increasingly shaping the global economic landscape.
The report suggests that this trend is being accelerated by global wealth mobility, as individuals navigate rising tax burdens and increasing regulatory pressures in their search for more favorable financial environments.
Related: Rich and Ultra-Rich People Reach Historic High, Study Finds
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