Headline inflation in Greece fell from 2.9% in August to 1.8% in September 2025, reported ΕΛΣΤΑΤ And Eurostat. But for most citizens this statistical illusion: Prices for food and essential goods remain at record levels.
According to ELSTAT, coffee during the period from August to September the price increased by 18.5%, chocolate and sweets – by 23.2%, fruits – by 11.6%, olive oil – by 15%. Fresh vegetables increased by 8%, and housing rents increased by another 9%. Price reductions are observed only in the energy sector (-3% to -5%), but this is not enough to ease the budget of families.
Table: price dynamics (August – September 2025)
| Category | Yearly change | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Headline inflation (CPI) | 2.9% → 1.8% | ELSTAT / Eurostat |
| Food and non-alcoholic drinks | +2.6% | ELSTAT |
| Coffee | +18.5% | ELSTAT (Aug. 2025) |
| Fruits | +11.6% | ELSTAT |
| Chocolate and sweets | +23.2% | ELSTAT |
| Olive oil | +15% | ELSTAT |
| Fresh vegetables | +8% | ELSTAT |
| Energy (electricity, gas) | –3% to –5% | ELSTAT |
| Renting a home | +9% | ELSTAT/IOBE |
When the numbers officials they lie
Economists call it “The paradox of Greek statistics”: indicators are improving, but the wallet is not. The “food and non-alcoholic beverages” category grew by 2.6% year-on-year, but within it the price increase for basic goods is 10–20%. On average, a Greek family spends up to 23% of their income on food (versus 17% in the Eurozone), so every small increase hits the budget hard.
The state reacts, but weakly
Program “Household Basket” and periodic price checks in supermarkets remain the authorities’ main tool. The Ministry of Development sets price ceilings for basic goods, and sellers found to be speculating are fined. But, according to Georgios Lehouritis (INCA), “measures only slow down growth, not stop it.” When wages grow by 3% and food by 10%, “every trip to the store is a test.”
European context
According to Eurostatinflation in Greece (1.8%) is lower than the national average EU (2.3%), but structural problems – high transport costs and a limited competitive market – prevent prices from returning downwards. Experts believe the solution lies not in subsidies, but in strengthening domestic production and pricing transparency.
People behind the numbers
For Elena42 years old, mother from Piraeus, official figures mean nothing: “I used to buy two bags for 50 euros, now I buy one. Inflation may have fallen, but prices have not returned.”. This is what “cheap” life looks like in Greek – when numbers reassure ministers, and a receipt at a store reminds them of reality.
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