Electricity, Water, Toll Roads: What will become more expensive in Serbia in 2026

The authorities say these increases are part of an adjustment to inflation and European standards.

Nevertheless, the cost of living continues to rise.

In 2026, price growth is expected across several areas that directly affect the everyday lives of citizens in Serbia.

This year marks a continuation of rising prices in many segments of the domestic economy, driven by a combination of inflationary pressures, fiscal policies, and changes in regulatory frameworks.

This means that living costs for most citizens will increase. At the same time, the minimum wage will be raised by 10.1 percent.

Economists believe that wage growth should be able to keep pace with costs.

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"What is expected is a, conditionally speaking, modest, but positive growth that should exceed the level of inflation. From that perspective, a slight increase in income levels is anticipated, and consequently in the standard of living, with citizens having some additional income available to allocate perhaps to additional living needs or groceries, or to a moderate extent - to savings. Of course, this is individual and depends on the industry you work in, the type of job, and similar factors", said Prof. Dr. Veljko Mijusković for Newsmax Balkans.

The price of electricity has already increased by 6.6 percent since October 2025, lowering the threshold for entering the most expensive “red zone.” In addition, the arrangement with the IMF stipulates a further adjustment of electricity prices by October this year, meaning electricity could become more expensive again.

In Belgrade, the price of water supply and wastewater disposal is increasing by about 9.5 percent. In Zrenjanin, as of January 1, the price per cubic meter of water from the municipal water system jumped from 29 dinars to 129 dinars, excluding VAT.

Around 5 Percent Higher Property Tax

When it comes to the average price per square meter of real estate, which serves as the basis for calculating property tax, Belgrade residents will pay around five percent more in 2026. The capital is not an isolated case - higher property taxes will also burden citizens in other cities.

As of this year, new and higher toll prices on highways are in effect, adjusted for inflation, and toll collection is also being introduced for trucks on main roads.

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In addition, tobacco products will become more expensive due to increases in excise duties.

Further pressure on the economy comes from new taxes on greenhouse gas emissions and on imports of products with a high carbon footprint. All of this may lead to higher product costs.

In short, all indicators suggest that 2026 will bring a continued rise in living costs, particularly in the areas of energy, utilities, and taxes, which remains one of the key challenges for both citizens and the economy. However, Sladjana, we will see what this year will actually bring, how inflation will affect these costs, and how wages will respond.

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