Shopping basket staples rose in price by 4.6% in the past year

But overall Consumer Price Index rises by 1.8% in year to June, says CSO 

Food and non-alcoholic drink prices rose 4.6% in the past year, with higher prices for staples like milk, meat, cheese, and eggs, the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) shows. Picture: PA Photo 

Food and non-alcoholic drink prices rose 4.6% in the past year, with higher prices for staples like milk, meat, cheese, and eggs, the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) shows.

Data released by the Central Statistics Office on Thursday shows the overall CPI rose by 1.8% between June 2024 and June 2025, up from an annual increase of 1.7% in the 12 months to May 2025. 

The divisions with the largest increase in the 12 months to June 2025 was food and non-alcoholic drink (+4.6%). This was due to higher prices across a range of products including chocolate, meet, milk, cheese, and eggs.  The national average price for a white sliced pan increased by 6c in the year to June 2025, while the same size brown sliced pan increased by 5c in the year.

"The annual change in food and non-alcoholic beverages costs reflects a rise in prices across a range of products, such as beef and veal and butter," said CSO statistician in the prices division Anthony Dawson.

The next largest rise in prices was in areas of recreation and culture (+3.5%). Recreation and culture rose mainly due to higher prices for package holidays.

Restaurants and hotels increased primarily due to higher prices for alcoholic drinks and food consumed in licensed premises, restaurants, and cafes. This increase was partially offset by a reduction in the cost of hotel accommodation.

Excluding energy and unprocessed food, the CPI grew by 2.0% in the 12 months to June 2025.

The divisions to record the largest declines when compared with June 2024 were Clothing & Footwear (-2.3%) and Transport (-2.0%).  "Transport decreased primarily due to lower prices for airfares, petrol and diesel. This reduction was partially offset by higher prices for the maintenance and repair of personal transport equipment," the CSO said. Clothing and footwear declined due to slower sales in the period.

Housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels increased primarily due to higher rents, and an increase in the cost of electricity. This increase was partially offset by a reduction in the price of liquid fuels (home heating oil).

Furnishings, household equipment and routine household maintenance decreased primarily due to lower prices for household textiles and furniture and furnishings.

The national average price of a take-home 50cl can of lager at €2.41 was down 2c from June 2024, while a take-home 50cl can of cider at €2.71 was up 3c. In June 2025, the national average price of a pint of stout in a pub was €6.07, up 27c in the year, while a pint of lager was €6.49, up 29c compared with June 2024.