Consumer Inflation Inches Upward in December

Food prices increased in December, but not as much as expected, according to the latest Consumer Price Index from the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics.

NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for December was released early Tuesday morning by the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, and the markets are responding kindly.

The numbers show consumer inflation rose 0.3 percent last month. However, that is 0.10 percent lower than expected. Year over year, consumer inflation is up 2.7 percent. Shelter was the largest increase in December, while the food index rose by 0.7 percent.

On Wednesday, the Bureau will release a companion report, the Producer Price Index (PPI), which provides a read on farmer spending. Join us on Market Day Report for expert analysis on that data and what it means for the ag industry as we head into the new year.

Related Stories
Cotton demand depends on demonstrating performance and reliability buyers can rely on, not messaging alone.
Shaun Haney, Host of RealAg Radio on Rural Radio SiriusXM Channel 147, joined us with his 2026 cattle market outlook and insights on beef prices.
High ownership does not always translate into high output, underscoring the importance of structural differences in understanding state-level farm performance.
Record yields are cushioning production declines, but softer prices underscore the importance of cost control and market timing for vegetable growers.
Cuba remains a small but dependable, cash-only outlet for U.S. grain and food products.
Expanding cheese exports are strengthening U.S. milk demand and reinforcing global competitiveness.
Strong global demand and falling stocks suggest continued price volatility for U.S. coffee buyers despite record world production.
U.S. dairy producers remain the primary growth engine globally, while tightening supplies in Europe and New Zealand could support export demand for American dairy products.
Fewer acres and stronger prices suggest disciplined hop production is supporting market balance despite lower output.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD-TV and The Cowboy Channel. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, adding a decade of experience in the digital side of broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold joined us to share insights on building healthy habits and improving rural health in the year ahead.
Dr. Rosslyn Biggs with the Oklahoma State University Center for Rural Veterinary Medicine shares insight into biosecurity, preparedness, and animal health concerns facing livestock producers as New World screwworm outbreaks continue in Mexico.
Tennessee Rep. John Rose joined us to pay tribute to his friend and colleague, Rep. Doug LaMalfa, a true Champion of Rural America.
China continues to buy U.S. soybeans toward its 12 MMT commitment, as analysts cite data gaps, delivery timing questions, and muted market reaction.
FarmHER Nikki Boxler, aka The Maple Farmer, blends tradition with innovation, tapping into a bold new future for maple syrup.
As the new year begins, both farmers and rural families are taking stock of their finances and planning ahead for 2026.