North Macedonia sees increase in basic household expenses in early 2026

The average family of four needs Mden 68,797 (approx. EUR 1,118) to cover minimal living expenses in April, or Mden 979 more than in March, according to the Federation of Trade Unions of North Macedonia.

According to the federation's estimate of the bare necessities for an average household, Mden 26,085 is needed to cover basic monthly food and beverage costs, CE Report quotes MIA.

The estimated minimal costs for other essential categories include Mden 7,192 for education; Mden 6,338 for rent, water, electricity and heating; Mden 6,129 for clothing and footwear; Mden 5,592 for entertainment; Mden 4,961 for transportation; Mden 4,131 for restaurants and hotels; Mden 3,417 for communications; Mden 2,667 for personal hygiene items and household cleaning products; and Mden 1,185 for health care.

"Living in a 60-square-meter rented apartment, a family of four’s basic expenses total Mden 84,172 in April," the federation said.

According to the latest estimates, minimal living costs increased by Mden 3,305 in the first four months of 2026 alone.