The monthly "basket of goods" bought by the average Greek household has increased 105 euros or roughly 5 percent over the last year, the Greek consumer group ELKEKA reported on Monday.

Citing figures released by Greece's statistical authority, ELKEKA said the cost of these basic goods had increased from 2,010 euros a month in 2009 to 2,115 euros a month in 2010.

ELKEKA President Vassilis Lygas told the ANA-MPA that the sharp rise in prices was mainly due to the increase in VAT and the Special Consumption Tax, causing additional hardship to households already facing cuts in their pay and pensions.

The highest increases were in alcoholic drinks and tobacco products, which climbed 19 percent in the year, followed by transport costs that rose 18 percent due to the higher cost of fuels, increased road tolls and more expensive repair and maintenance costs for vehicles.

Housing costs rose by 8 percent due to higher heating fuel costs and climbing rents, while there was 5 percent increase in services and a one percent reduction in foods and non-alcoholic beverages.