Greece reports stagnant birth rates and rising household spending

Recent data from the Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT) highlights significant shifts in Greek demographics and household economics. In the first half of 2026, birth rates remained nearly stagnant nationwide, with only 31,390 live births recorded, a marginal increase of four compared to the same period in 2025. However, regional variations exist: births increased in seven regions, including the Peloponnese, Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, and Thessaly, while declines were noted in Central Greece, Attica, and the North Aegean.

Economically, Greek households saw an increase in average monthly spending, reaching €1,820.20 in 2025, a 5.5% rise from 2024. This increase is largely attributed to inflation, with the Consumer Price Index at 2.59%. Major expenditure categories include food and non-alcoholic beverages (20.4%), housing (14.7%), and transportation (13.6%). Regional disparities in spending are evident, with the Attica region recording the highest annual expenditure and Central Greece the lowest.

Additionally, research from Vrije Universiteit Brussels warns of a climate legacy for younger generations in Europe, noting that children born in 2025 may face significantly more days of extreme wildfire risk due to climate change, a trend particularly concerning for the Mediterranean and Greece.