Greece inflation jumps to 5% in May 2026, far above Eurozone average

Eurostat data for May 2026 show Greece's consumer price inflation accelerating to 5.0%, up from 4.6% in April. The rise outpaces the Eurozone average, which steadied at 3.2%, placing Greece third among euro‑area members after Bulgaria (6.3%) and Lithuania (5.1%). The surge is driven by soaring energy costs linked to the Middle‑East conflict and limited fuel tax relief, as well as high domestic tax wedges that compress household and SME incomes. Analysts warn the higher price trajectory could entrench a prolonged inflationary cycle, further squeezing living standards while government fiscal measures remain under pressure.