Price increases in Austria picked up speed again slightly in February 2026. According to a preliminary 'flash estimate' by Statistics Austria, the inflation rate rose to 2.2 percent, after it had been 2.0 percent in January. Despite the small increase, the rate remains close to the stability target of the 'European Central Bank'.
Services proved to be the main drivers of prices once again. In contrast, the trend in energy prices continued to dampen the overall price level. Decreases were recorded in household energy and fuel, which partially offset the upward pressure. Experts also point out that the significant drop in January was primarily due to statistical 'base effects' in electricity prices, which had less impact in February.
Compared to the previous month of January, the average price level is expected to have risen by 0.7 percent. The final data for the reporting month of February is expected in mid-March. Economists are closely monitoring developments, as geopolitical uncertainties and the volatility of raw material markets could continue to pose risks to future price stability.
