December Sees an Increase in Consumer Price Index

 

Courtesy of Bureau of Labor Statistics

The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers increased 0.5 percent in December on a seasonally adjusted basis. Over the last 12 months, the all items index increased 1.5 percent before seasonal adjustment.

The energy index increased in December. The gasoline index rose sharply and accounted for about 80 percent of the all items seasonally adjusted increase. The household energy index, which declined in November, increased as well. With gasoline prices continuing to rise, it’s going to be tougher to operate your fleet of trucks and utility vehicles.

The index for all items less food and energy also rose in December. An increase in the shelter index accounted for about 60 percent of the rise, and the indexes for airline fares, medical care and apparel rose as well. These increases more than offset declines in the indexes for communication, recreation, and household furnishings and operations.

– Courtesy of Bureau of Labor Statistics