Daily life in the Netherlands became on average 3.5 per cent more expensive in May than in the same month a year earlier, according to final figures from Statistics Netherlands (CBS). The figure matches the earlier quick estimate and represents an increase from 2.8 per cent in April.
CBS said that international flight prices were a key driver. Airline tickets were 12.3 per cent more expensive in May than a year earlier. In April 2026, they were still 11.6 per cent cheaper than in April 2025.
Prices for stays in bungalow parks also pushed inflation higher. May included more public holidays than in 2025, with Pentecost falling in May this year instead of June last year. Prices for tourism-related goods and services often rise during public holidays and holiday periods due to higher demand.
Energy and motor fuel prices
Energy and motor fuel prices have also increased sharply, linked to the war in the Middle East that began in late February. Economists warn that a prolonged conflict could push inflation higher through further energy price increases. In February, before the conflict, inflation stood at 2.4 per cent.
Using the European calculation method, Dutch inflation rose to 3.4 per cent in May, up from 2.5 per cent in April. This method, agreed within the European Union, does not include the cost of owner-occupied housing, unlike the Dutch calculation.
Inflation in the Netherlands remains above the eurozone average. Across the euro area, inflation rose to 3.2 per cent in May from 3 per cent in April. In February, before the Iran conflict, eurozone inflation stood at 1.9 per cent.
@anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
