U.S. Inflation Ticks Up in August as Food and Housing Costs Climb

The Consumer Price Index rose 0.4 percent in August, led by higher shelter, food, and gasoline prices. Year over year, inflation is up 2.9 percent.

energy pkg.jpg

WASHINGTON (RFD-TV) – Consumer prices rose faster than expected in August, with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) increasing 0.4 percent on a seasonally adjusted basis, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Thursday. That brought annual inflation to 2.9 percent, up from July’s 2.6 percent.

Food and shelter were the biggest drivers. Grocery prices jumped 0.6 percent last month, while restaurant meals rose 0.3 percent, pushing food inflation to 3.2 percent over the year. Housing costs climbed 0.4 percent in August and are now up 3.6 percent compared with a year ago.

Energy prices rose 0.7 percent, led by gasoline, though natural gas costs fell. Core inflation, which strips out food and energy, increased 0.3 percent in August and 3.1 percent year-over-year.

The report also showed increases in airline fares, used cars, and apparel, while medical care and recreation costs edged lower.

Related Stories
Kansas Congressman Derek Schmidt joins us to discuss House passage of the Farm Bill, its potential impact on farm profitability and stability, key policy compromises, and the outlook for Senate consideration.
A more independent UAE could add long-term pressure and volatility to energy markets, affecting fuel and fertilizer costs.
Food inflation is still building in 2026, with beef leading pressure while eggs and dairy offer some relief.
Fuel costs are shaping food and demand patterns.
A prolonged Iran ceasefire offers limited relief as fertilizer concerns persist, prompting U.S. policy shifts and driving farmers to reconsider crop acreage.
Steven Snow with the U.S. Small Business Administration joined us to discuss tax relief for rural Americans and the long-term benefits of new provisions impacting farmers and small businesses.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Cotton jassid, a invasive pest, is raising concerns for Southeast cotton growers as experts work to understand its impact this season.
RFD Farm Legal & Tax expert Roger McEowen shares guidance on the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, its impact on renewable energy and agriculture, and what producers should know moving forward.
Singer-songwriter and RanchHER Clare Dunn reflects on the importance of National FFA Week, her time in FFA, and her commitment to advocating for agriculture and rural issues.
Border closures tied to the threat of New World Screwworm continue to stall Mexican fed cattle imports, tightening U.S. feeder cattle supplies over time — triggering feedlot closures that hinder herd rebuilding efforts, threaten the beef supply chain, and shrink production while consumer prices stay elevated.
Brooks York of AgriSompo discusses projected prices and how farmers are adapting their crop insurance strategies as the price discovery period comes to a close.
FFA Western Region Vice President Jael Cruikshank talks about the importance of community service and how National FFA Organization members are making a difference in their communities during National FFA Week.