The analysis of consumer spending data reveals shifts in the cost of living across several categories. When comparing May of the current year to May of the previous year, the overall cost of living saw an increase of 4.8%, while general price levels rose slightly by 5.6%. On a month-over-month basis, inflation, measured by the cost of living index comparing May to April of the current year, registered at 0.6%.
Examining the changes between May and April of 2026, several sectors experienced notable increases. The transport sector recorded the highest rise at 1.6%. Other areas that saw price increases included clothing and footwear, food and non-alcoholic beverages (both up 1.0%), and recreation, sport, and culture, which increased by 0.9%.
Furthermore, information and communication rose by 0.7%, and restaurants and accommodation services increased by 0.5%. The combined category of health care, housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels showed a minimal increase of 0.1%. Conversely, the data indicated a decrease in the cost of living for specific groups when comparing May to April 2026.
Specifically, the categories encompassing personal care, social protection, and miscellaneous goods and services reported a reduction in their associated costs. These figures provide a detailed snapshot of inflationary pressures and consumer spending patterns across different economic sectors.
Topics: #cost #living #year
