Consumer price inflation in Ireland climbed to its highest level in 18 months, driven largely by rising food, beverage, and household costs, according to new figures released by the Central Statistics Office (CSO).
The data shows that inflation reached 2.7% in September, up from 2% in August — marking the steepest increase since March 2024, when the rate stood at 2.9%. The CSO reported that the Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages sector recorded the most significant annual price hike, with costs surging by 4.7% in the 12 months to September.
A wide range of everyday grocery items saw sharp increases. Beef and veal prices soared by 23.6% compared to last year, while milk rose by 12.1% and butter climbed 11.7%. The cost of chocolate and confectionery was up 13.9%, and coffee prices increased by 10.5%. Price rises were also observed in bread, cereals, cheese, eggs, and soft drinks.
Beyond food, Irish consumers are facing higher expenses in several key areas. The CSO noted increases in health and motor insurance premiums, as well as in the cost of personal care products and childcare services. Meanwhile, the furnishings, household equipment, and routine household maintenance category was the only sector to record a decline, with prices falling by 0.6% over the year.
The CSO’s National Average Prices report for September highlighted the growing pressure on household budgets. The average price of a large white sliced pan increased by five cents, while a brown sliced pan rose by three cents. Two litres of full-fat milk cost 27 cents more than a year ago, butter per pound was up by 68 cents, and Irish cheddar per kilogram rose by 69 cents.
In the beverages category, the national average price of a 50cl take-home can of lager stood at €2.43 — up one cent on the year — while a similar can of cider cost €2.73, six cents higher. Consumers also paid more in pubs, with the average pint of stout priced at €6.07, an increase of 25 cents, and a pint of lager averaging €6.50, up 26 cents.
Some small relief was noted for consumers, as the average price for 2.5kg of potatoes dropped by 42 cents. However, the overall data underscores the continuing strain of inflation on Irish households, particularly in food and essential goods, as living costs continue to edge upward into late 2025.
