The Consumer Price Index increased 0.4 percent in April, as the indices for food, energy and all items less food and energy rose during the month. Over the last 12 months, the all items index rose 1.1 percent before seasonal adjustment.
The energy index rose 3.4 percent in April, the largest increase since February 2013. The gasoline index drove the increases, rising 8.1 percent during the month. Fuel oil and natural gas prices also increased, rising 1.9 percent and 0.6 percent respectively.
The food index rose 0.2 percent following a 0.2 percent decline in March. Prices for food at home advanced 0.1 percent while prices for food away from home advanced 0.2 percent. Dairy and related products rose 0.4 percent in April. In contrast, the index for fruits and vegetables fell for the second straight month, falling 0.5 percent.
Prices for all items less food and energy increased 0.2 percent in April, compared to a 0.1 percent rise in March. The indices for transportation services, medical care commodities, medical care services and shelter all increased, while the indices for new and used vehicles, apparel and commodities fell.
Read the BLS release.
