Argentina living costs rise for retirees and NEA residents

Economic reports from Argentina highlight rising living costs and poverty thresholds across different demographics and regions. In Buenos Aires, a report from the Defensoría del Pueblo indicates that a retired couple renting a home required approximately 2,526,219 pesos in August 2026 to cover essential expenses, including food, health, and services. This represents a 35.3% increase compared to August 2025. Notably, the cost for a similar couple owning their home was significantly lower, at 1,714,568 pesos.

In the Northeast region (NEA), data from INDEC shows a steady increase in the Total Basic Basket (CBT) throughout the first half of 2026. By June, the CBT per adult equivalent reached 412,321.91 pesos, up from 369,914.53 pesos in January. In the Corrientes urban area, these rising costs contributed to a poverty rate of 41.0% and an indigence rate of 8.6% during the first semester of 2026.