Simple steps can make a big difference
Euro notes (stock)(Image: Getty Images)
A number of household bills are set to rise this year – and in the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, we’re all looking for ways to cut down on spending.
To help you get on top of your finances in 2026, an expert has shared their top tips for slashing household costs. Switcher.ie consumer champion Eoin Clarke said that while inflation may be lessening, many families still feel the pinch. He stresses the most important thing is for homeowners to take action on whatever they can, whenever they can.
He said: “Reviewing energy, broadband and insurance regularly – and switching to a cheaper, suitable plan when possible – is still one of the most effective ways to keep costs under control. When it comes to groceries, simple swaps like choosing own-brand products or shopping around between supermarkets can also make a real difference.”
Here’s what Eoin advises:
Energy
Despite a drop in wholesale energy prices, they remain significantly higher than pre-crisis levels, suggesting household energy bills will remain high in 2026. The average Irish home is currently paying approximately €1,729 annually for electricity and €1,498 for gas on standard tariffs.
In 2025, some households were hit with a series of double-digit increases as three of Ireland’s major electricity suppliers hiked typical annual bills by between 10% and 14%. At the same time, increased network and infrastructure costs have driven up standing charges, further increasing energy prices. These fixed costs apply no matter how much electricity you usage and restrict how much bills can decrease.
The best way to save on your energy bill is still to switch provider. Switching both gas and electricity to the cheapest discounted plans available could save around €817 a year compared to sticking with a standard deal.
Broadband and mobile
Many broadband and mobile customers will experience price hikes again in 2026 due to CPI-linked increases linked with contracts, typically applied in spring. Under existing rules, these increases do not permit customers to cancel without penalty mid-contract.
This mirrors similar annual price bumps in 2025, when major Irish broadband providers implemented increases of around 4.4% to 8%, adding roughly €48 to €60 a year to many customers’ bills.
New consumer protection laws are expected later this year to combat this – but until they come into effect, CPI-linked increases earlier in the year may still be applicable. For now, switching once you’re out of contract remains the best method to dodge higher bills, as even slight increases can add €60–€120 annually to household expenses.
Health insurance
Health insurance premiums are set to rise again, impacting many households at the start of 2026. Several insurers implemented price hikes throughout 2025, and the average cost of a plan has steadily increased with the typical adult premium now around €1,880, an increase of about 8% since the beginning of 2025.
Depending on the level of cover, some families are now shelling out an extra €160 – €250 or more per year compared to 2024, due to these increases.
With approximately half of all health insurance policies renewing between December and February, a significant number of households are now feeling the pinch. Those approaching renewal should scrutinise their policy thoroughly, as switching to a better-value plan – while maintaining the necessary cover – can still yield substantial savings.
Car insurance
Car insurance costs continue to be steep following a sharp rise in recent years.
Data from the Central Bank indicates that the average motor insurance premium surged by around 9% in 2024, hitting about €623 per policy. With repair costs and claims remaining high, the factors that pushed premiums up last year are still very much present for 2026.
Motorists aiming to minimise expenses in 2026 can explore different options at renewal, opt for annual payments over monthly ones where feasible, and compare quotes from various providers instead of sticking with their current policy.
Groceries
Food continues to be one of the most significant daily expenses for households. With the average family’s grocery bill amounting to approximately €400-€500 a month on supermarket food alone, groceries persist in exerting substantial pressure on household budgets. Despite a slowdown in price growth, consumers are still shelling out considerably more at the checkout than they were just a few years prior.
However, the potential for savings is considerable. An analysis by Switcher.ie of big-label versus own-brand items across Ireland’s major supermarkets indicates that families could slash their food bills by around 50% by opting for supermarket value ranges.
This could free up roughly €2,750 over a year, without compromising on quality for most everyday staples.
PRSI
Workers will also see changes to their net pay in 2026 as PRSI rates continue to climb under measures enacted in 2024. PRSI is set to increase incrementally each October until 2028. From October 2026, the majority of workers will see their PRSI rate rise from 4.20% to 4.35%.
For someone earning around €50,000, this equates to an additional €75 per annum. While these increases are intended to bolster future social welfare and pension payments, they do impact take-home pay in the short term.
One way to cushion the blow is to ensure you’re not overpaying tax. Many workers are eligible for refunds due to unclaimed credits and reliefs, with the average tax refund valued at approximately €900. You can check out our list of all the expenses Revenue allows you to claim tax back on here.
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