Pizza Prices Surge Across Europe as Diners Seek Value

Pizza prices have risen sharply across Europe, with the average order now nearly 8% more expensive than last year. A recent index compiled by the food delivery service Foodora reveals that the cost of a basic Margherita pizza has increased by 7.75% over the past year, with the median price climbing from €11.10 in 2024 to €11.96 in 2025. This trend reflects broader economic pressures affecting dining choices and affordability for consumers.

The Foodora index examined pizza prices in six European markets—Austria, the Czech Republic, Finland, Hungary, Norway, and Sweden—using data from millions of orders placed in 2024 and 2025. The findings show that, despite some cities experiencing price declines, the overall average has risen significantly, highlighting the impact of inflation on everyday food costs.

Regional Price Variations

Among the markets assessed, Hungary remains the most affordable, with a median price of €8.75 in 2025. Following closely is Czechia, where the median stands at €9.47. In stark contrast, Norway is the most expensive country for pizza, with a median price reaching €17.60. Other countries such as Austria and Sweden have median prices of €11.50 and €10.94, respectively, while Finland reflects a higher average at €13.50.

Interestingly, while Sweden and Finland saw slight year-on-year declines in pizza prices, markets like Austria, Hungary, and Norway reported increases. Notable price drops were recorded in cities like Bergen, where prices fell by 15.85% to €15.72, and Göteborg, which saw a decrease of 15.81% to €11.93.

Shifting Consumer Preferences

The analysis also sheds light on changing consumer preferences regarding pizza orders. In both 2024 and 2025, the classic Margherita and Salami pizzas retained their status as the top two choices among diners. However, the rise of the Calzone into the third position indicates a shift towards more filling options. This change suggests that consumers are seeking greater value, prioritizing substantial toppings over simpler selections.

Foodora attributes this trend to a desire for enhanced “filling factor.” As diners become more price-conscious, they increasingly assess value based on the satisfaction derived from their meal. Historical patterns reveal that during economic downturns, consumers often opt for cheaper dining options while simultaneously seeking more filling meals when they do choose to spend.

With food inflation in the Euro area cooling from a peak of approximately 15.5% in March 2023 to around 2.5% by December 2025, consumers are still feeling the pinch. Economists from the European Central Bank (ECB) note that families are now paying roughly one-third more for meals compared to pre-pandemic levels. Prices for key ingredients such as beef, poultry, and dairy have surged by over 30% since the end of 2019.

In light of these developments, pizza serves as a microcosm of broader economic trends. While some regions maintain lower prices, families in Eastern and Southeastern Europe, where food constitutes over 20% of household budgets, are particularly affected by rising costs.

As inflation moderates, the sustained increase in ingredient prices continues to drive menu prices higher. The quest for affordable yet satisfying meals remains a significant concern for consumers, indicating that the search for Europe’s cheapest pizza is more pressing than ever.