Consumer Price Index: All Items: Total for United States
CPALTT01USQ657N • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
1.04
Year-over-Year Change
-2.85%
Date Range
4/1/1955 - 1/1/2024
Summary
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) All Items: Total for the United States measures the average change in prices paid by consumers for a basket of goods and services. It is a key indicator of inflation and purchasing power.
Analysis & Context
This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.
Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.
About This Dataset
The CPI All Items: Total tracks the overall cost of living for urban consumers in the U.S. It includes prices for food, housing, transportation, medical care, and other common expenditures. This comprehensive index is widely used by economists, policymakers, and the public to assess the general price level and cost-of-living changes.
Methodology
The Bureau of Labor Statistics collects price data from a sample of retail and service establishments to calculate the CPI.
Historical Context
The Federal Reserve closely monitors the CPI as a guide for monetary policy decisions.
Key Facts
- The CPI is calculated based on a basket of over 80,000 consumer goods and services.
- The CPI has been published monthly since 1919.
- A 1% change in the CPI corresponds to a 1% change in the general price level.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The CPI All Items: Total tracks the average change in prices paid by urban consumers for a representative basket of goods and services in the United States.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: The CPI is a key indicator of inflation and a measure of the purchasing power of the U.S. dollar. It is widely used by economists, policymakers, and the public to assess the general cost of living and guide economic decision-making.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The Bureau of Labor Statistics collects price data from a sample of retail and service establishments to calculate the CPI.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: The Federal Reserve closely monitors the CPI as a guide for monetary policy decisions, such as setting interest rates to maintain price stability and promote economic growth.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The CPI is published monthly, with a slight delay to allow for data collection and processing. The index may not fully capture price changes for all consumer goods and services.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Consumer Price Index: All Items: Total for United States (CPALTT01USQ657N), retrieved from FRED.