September CPI inflation report: Which prices changed the most last month

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Inflation in the U.S. increased in September resulting in higher prices at the grocery store. (Photo by Jim WATSON / AFP) (Photo by JIM WATSON/AFP via Getty Images)

Inflation in the U.S. increased in September, according to a report released Friday by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.  Consumers are paying more for gas, food and groceries.

CPI inflation report

By the numbers:

The Labor Department said consumer prices rose 3% in September compared to last year, the highest since January’s 2.9% increase. On a monthly basis, prices decreased by 0.1% from August to September, after rising 0.2% the previous month. 

The figures are better than what many economists forecast and are welcome news for Federal Reserve officials, who have signaled that they will cut their key interest rate at their meeting next week and may do so again in December.

Which prices increased?

Big picture view:

The cost of gas, food and groceries all rose in September with tariffs resulting in higher prices for several items, including furniture, clothing and large appliances. 

Which prices increased? 

Big picture view:

Gas prices

By the numbers:

Gas prices increased by 4.1% in September from the previous month but are down 0.4% from last year.

Grocery prices

By the numbers:

Grocery prices rose 0.3% in September. 

Some items that saw the biggest price jumps: 

• Lunch meats +4.2%
• Bakery products +5.7%
• Potatoes 2.6%
• Frozen non-carbonated juices and drinks +2.2%
• Peanut butter +2.1
• Beef +1.2%

Some grocery prices that decreased last month included eggs, by 7.4% – though the kitchen staple is still more than 27% more expensive than a year ago. 

Other grocery items that got cheaper: 

• Breakfast sausage -2.3%
• Eggs -4.7%
• Lettuce -1.8%
• Tomatoes -0.7%
• Frozen fish and seafood -0.8%
• Milk -0.2%