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:

National Corn Growers Association Chief Economist Krista Swanson discusses corn supply pressures, market fundamentals, policy considerations, and producer outlook for the year ahead.
Midland County Junior Livestock Show in West Texas features swine competition with top exhibitors, including Grand Champion Brinley Wilson, ahead of Saturday’s premium sale.
Rep. Erin Houchin of Indiana discusses how the Affordable Homes Act will benefit rural communities, and her broader efforts to improve access to affordable housing.
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig discusses market conditions, policy priorities, and his outlook for agriculture moving forward.
NEFB President Mark McHargue recaps the Farm Bureau’s Annual Convention, producer sentiment in Nebraska, and discusses key issues facing agriculture.
Congressman Dusty Johnson of South Dakota joined us to discuss key ag policy developments and his outlook for agriculture in 2026.