The consumer price index for urban consumers increased 0.6% in April compared to their level in March, after adjustments for seasonal variances, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported on Tuesday. Core inflation, which doesn’t include food and energy price averages, rose 0.4%. The price index for all items rose 3.8% since April 2025, the bureau said.

What categories of items contributed most greatly to the April price index increase? The average price of energy rose by 3.8%. Energy was also the biggest contributor to the increase seen over the past year. The average price of shelter was also a contributor, with a 0.6% rise during April. Food prices also increased by 0.5% during the month, especially in the category of food made at home. Prices for household furnishings, airline fares, personal care, clothing, and education also rose a little. However, average prices for new cars and medical care were among those that dropped in April.

How are producers doing? Wholesale prices rose 1.4% in April and 6% from a year ago, the bureau reported Wednesday. Both increases were the largest since 2022. Energy was the biggest factor in the rise, especially due to higher gas prices. The services category, including transportation, warehousing, and trade, also bumped up average prices.

This story originally appeared in WORLD. © 2026, reprinted with permission. All rights reserved.