Band 6+: The charts below show the proportion of people spending on different commodities and services in a particular European country in 1958 and in 2008.

The bar charts illustrate the share of household expenditures in an European country in 1958 and 2008.

In general, the figure for housing, food and luxury goods increased, whereas the remaining figures decreased. Although clothing expenditures accounted for the highest share in the early stages, it was then overtaken by housing expenses.

Focusing on increases first, the figure for housing expenses came in at 22% in 1958, which was followed by a rise to 32% in 2008, becoming the largest spending. In addition to that, food spendings accounted for 8% in 1958, which then rose to 17% in 2008. Finally, the luxury goods expenses category registered at 7% in 1958, before rising to 17% in 2008.

Regarding to figures which decreased, the figure for clothing expenditures came in at 32% in 1958, which was the largest share. Nevertheless, it declined to 12% in 2008. Moreover, entertainment expenditures declined to 16% in 2008, after coming in at 18% in 1958. Finally, the proportion for travel and transport spendings registered at 13% in 1958, which then dropped to 6% in 2008.