Inflation Holds Steady in February with 0.2% CPI Increase

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for February 2025 showed a modest increase of 0.2% compared to January, following a 0.5% rise the previous month. Over the past year, the overall CPI has risen by 2.8%.

Housing costs played a major role in the monthly increase, with the shelter index rising 0.3%, contributing almost half of the total CPI increase. However, this was offset by a 4.0% drop in airline fares and a 1.0% decrease in gasoline prices.

Despite lower gasoline costs, the energy index still rose by 0.2%, driven by higher electricity and natural gas prices. Food prices also saw a slight increase of 0.2%, with eating out becoming more expensive, though groceries remained unchanged.

Excluding food and energy, the core CPI rose by 0.2%, slightly lower than the 0.4% increase in January. Notable increases were seen in medical care, used cars, household items, apparel, and personal care, while airline fares and new vehicles saw decreases.

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Over the last 12 months, the CPI has climbed 2.8%, down from a 3.0% increase in January. The core CPI increased by 3.1% during the same period, while energy costs fell by 0.2%. Food prices rose by 2.6% year-over-year.

Deyan Angelov

Active crypto trader who also follows news related to stocks, the S&P 500, and gold. Deyan enjoys staying physically active, trains regularly, and practices calisthenics. He also likes reading sci-fi books when he has the time.