German inflation eases to 2.8% – energy still 12.2% more expensive
According to preliminary Destatis data, consumer prices in October were 2.8% higher than a year earlier, after 3.3% in September. Food cost only 0.4% more.
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Inflation in Germany eased to 2.8% in October 2026. That is according to preliminary figures from the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) released on Oct. 30. In September, annual inflation had still stood at 3.3%. Compared with the previous month, consumer prices even fell by 0.2%. The Harmonised Index of Consumer Prices (HICP), used to compare EU countries, was also at 2.8%.
Energy remains the biggest price driver: household energy and fuel cost 12.2% more than a year earlier, after 14.9% in September. Goods overall rose by 3.0% (September: 3.8%), services by 2.5% (September: 2.7%). Food was only 0.4% more expensive, the same as in the previous month. Core inflation excluding food and energy fell from 2.4% to 2.1%.
A lower inflation rate does not mean prices are falling back to earlier levels; they are simply rising more slowly. Destatis plans to publish final October results on Nov. 11, 2026.
This article is for information only and is not legal, tax, financial or medical advice. Figures as of the date stated.