Consumer prices in Dublin are 3.5 per cent higher on average than in the rest of the State, a survey from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) has found, with cinema-goers in the capital paying over 20 per cent more than those around the country, writes Fiona Gartland.
The CSO survey looked at 71 items and two services available in Dublin and outside in November 2006. Average prices were higher in Dublin for 39 of the items, including the two services, and lower for 34.
City dwellers paid on average €11.09 for a 1kg leg of lamb, more than 16 per cent more than outside where consumers paid €9.55. Salmon steaks were also more of a luxury for Dubliners, with 1kg coming in at €17.45 on average compared to €14.90 elsewhere. Of the 18 meats studied, 12 were more expensive in the city as were four of the five fish products.
Pork and smoked salmon were both cheaper in the capital, by over 17 and 6 per cent respectively, but bacon and ham were more expensive. Five of the nine fruit and vegetables listed were more expensive in Dublin and tomatoes were more than 10 per cent dearer. Of 17 other food items, including milk, cheese, butter, eggs, tea and spaghetti, 15 were lower in the capital, ranging from 1.7 per cent for standard eggs to almost 16 per cent for self-raising flour. However, large eggs and jam were both more expensive outside the capital.
Alcohol in off-licences and supermarkets was comparable with less than a 3 per cent variation in prices. In pubs and other licensed premises, however, there was a marked difference between the city and elsewhere. Most items showed at least a 5 per cent difference between Dublin and outside.
A pint of stout cost on average €3.93 in the city and €3.61 outside, but with some premises in Dublin charging €4.34 and others €3.61, the variation within the capital was also quite high. A half pint of lager cost €2.29 on average outside Dublin and €2.62 within it.
A trip to the cinema cost €8.86 in the capital and €7.37 outside on average. A ladies haircut and blow dry cost €32.50 outside and €38.66 in the city, a difference of almost 19 per cent.
Both unleaded petrol and diesel prices were cheaper in Dublin, by 1.4 and 1.5 per cent.