The cost of living for a Colombo household continued its upward climb for the second consecutive month, driven by surging food and non-food prices, the latest Colombo Consumer Price Index (CCPI) data released by the Department of Census and Statistics (CSD) shows.
In October 2025, household expenses rose by Rs 3,618.55 year-on-year (YoY) — an increase of over Rs 1,000 compared to the Rs 2,560.44 YoY rise reported in September 2025.
The increase was led by sharp jumps in both food and non-food costs, which rose by Rs 1,946 and Rs 1,672.10, respectively.
Among food items, the coconut bill surged by Rs 1,422.30, recording a four-digit YoY increase for the eleventh consecutive month.
The lime bill rose by Rs 680.95, while milk powder and chicken saw YoY increases of Rs 384.46 and Rs 243.07, respectively.
Prices of fresh sea fish and dried fish, key sources of animal protein for Sri Lankans, also recorded triple-digit increases — continuing their upward trend for the fourth and fifth consecutive months, respectively.
Non-food costs also contributed notably to the overall rise.
Education expenses climbed by Rs 468.52, housing rent rose by Rs 383.96, and the cost of healthcare services increased by Rs 364.54.
Dining out at local eateries also became more expensive, with costs up by Rs 370.58 year-on-year.
The CSD noted that Colombo’s overall inflation rate rose to 2.1% YoY in October, marking the eighth consecutive month of inflationary acceleration.
Analysts point out that persistent increases in coconut prices, alongside higher food and utility costs, continue to exert pressure on urban households.
Leave a comment