Consumer prices in Hungary increased by 1.8% in March 2026 compared to a year earlier, according to a fresh release of data by the Central Statistical Office (KSH).
On a monthly basis, prices increased by 0.4% compared to February.
Food prices were flat year-on-year, though they would have declined by 3.2% excluding catering services, KSH said. Within the category, notable increases were recorded for other bakery products, up 13.3%, buffet products, up 9.7%, and candy and honey, as well as canned fish, both up 7.9%. Prices for fresh domestic and tropical fruits rose by 7.5%, while meals at restaurants and canteens increased by 7.4% and ice cream by 6.6%.
At the same time, several staple food items saw significant price drops. Canned meat prices fell by 26.1%, margarine by 24.9%, and potatoes by 18.5%. Pork fat, butter, and milk products (excluding cheese) also recorded double-digit declines, along with flour and milk.
Service prices rose by 4.1% over the year. The largest increases were seen in theater tickets, up 18.8%, and recreation abroad, up 17.8%. Domestic recreation rose by 8.7%, while other public entertainment tickets increased by 8.4%. Personal care services and vehicle repair and maintenance both climbed by 7.8%.
Prices for alcoholic beverages and tobacco rose by 5.5%, including a 7.2% increase in tobacco prices. Household energy costs increased by 4.3%, driven by a 7.9% rise in natural and manufactured gas prices and a 2.4% increase in electricity prices.
Consumer durable goods prices were up by 2.7%, with jewelry prices surging by 29.1%. Motorcycles, second-hand cars, and living and dining room furniture also posted moderate increases.
Pharmaceutical products became 6.0% more expensive, while motor fuel prices fell by 3.0% compared to March 2025.
On a monthly basis, food prices edged down by 0.1%, or by 0.6% excluding catering services. Price increases were recorded for ice cream, bacon, and various meat products, while declines were seen for dried vegetables, butter, coffee, and several other staples.
Service prices rose by 0.2% month on month, with transport of goods increasing by 5.5%, while some travel-related services became cheaper.
Household energy prices were unchanged overall in March compared to February, though purchased heat rose sharply by 18.4% and gas prices fell by 3.3%.
Motor fuel prices increased by 4.6% over the month, while clothing and footwear prices rose by 1.9%, KSH said.