This research examines the impact of job inequality on consumption behavior in Odisha. The main purpose of the research is to find out how structural changes in employment lead to changes in the economic condition of people. Job inequality, which is seen from how many families are engaged in self-employment, casual employment or regular jobs, is an important factor influencing the level of income consistency and the ability to buy. The research uses secondary data obtained from the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) 68th round (2011–12) and the National Statistical Office (NSO) 79th round (2022–23). As part of the research methodology various statistics and inequality measures are employed to analyze the consumption behavior of people belonging to specific job groups. The research results indicate notable differences in Monthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure (MPCE) across occupational profiles. Families that are salaried have noticeable higher average consumption expenditures and more diverse expenditure patterns, especially in terms of non-food consumption like education, health, and durable goods. In comparison, families that rely on casual labour have lower average consumption expenditure but high concentration in expenditure on basic items. This suggests the tendency to subsistence-level consumption among these families. Moreover, the findings demonstrate that socio-economic factors such as education, social group and urban-rural location significantly determine the consumption results and exacerbate inequalities. The research findings indicate that occupational inequality significantly affects household consumption habits and contributes to consumption differences in Odisha. It draws attention to the importance of taking measures to provide job opportunities, develop skills, and build a safety net to stabilize people’s income. By establishing a direct empirical link between occupational structure and consumption patterns, the research contributes to the understanding of the process of inequality.

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