Prices in Albania are rising rapidly, narrowing the gap with the European Union. According to Eurostat data, the average price level in Albania matched that of the EU in 2024.

Food prices in Albania are now 1% higher than the EU average, while incomes—measured by purchasing power standards—are only 41% of the EU average.

This assessment comes from Eurostat’s latest report, which shows that Albania’s Food Price Index has surpassed the 100% mark for the first time in 20 years.

From 2005 to 2018, food prices in Albania were on average about 70% of the EU level. After 2018, a rapid increase occurred, culminating in price parity with the EU in 2024.

The most expensive food products for Albanian households compared to the EU average are eggs, cheese, and milk, which are priced at 131% of the EU average—up from 120% the previous year.

Other food items and beverages are also around 20% more expensive than in the EU. However, Albanians pay significantly less for cigarettes, which cost just 47% of the EU average.

Compared to other European countries, food prices in Albania are now almost equal to those in Germany, Portugal, and Italy, and higher than in Spain, Czech Republic, Poland, and Bulgaria.

The highest food prices in Europe are found in Switzerland, Iceland, and Norway, while the lowest are in Turkey, Romania, and North Macedonia.