US Consumer Prices Rise 0.6% in April 2026 as Core Inflation Accelerates

Headline Inflation Driven by Energy, Shelter, and Food

In April 2026, the overall US consumer price index rose 0.6% compared with March, matching consensus forecasts and following a sharp 0.9% increase in the previous month. The March print had marked the strongest monthly gain since 2022.

Energy prices were a major contributor, jumping 3.8% in April after a 10.9% spike in March. The increase in energy costs has been driven by the Iran war and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which have affected supply dynamics and transportation routes.

Shelter costs also added to inflationary pressures, rising 0.6% in April, an acceleration from the 0.3% increase recorded in March. Food prices climbed 0.5% over the month, with a 0.7% rise for food at home and a 0.2% increase for food away from home.

Several other categories registered price gains in April, including household furnishings and operations, airline fares, personal care, apparel, and education. In contrast, the indexes for new vehicles, communication, and medical care declined, partially offsetting the broader upward pressures.

Core Inflation Reaches Highest Monthly Gain Since January 2025

The core consumer price index, which excludes the typically more volatile food and energy components, rose 0.4% in April. This was the largest monthly increase since January 2025 and exceeded market expectations of a 0.3% gain.

The combination of elevated energy prices, faster shelter cost growth, and broad-based increases across several services-related categories underpinned the core reading. Despite the moderation in the headline rate from March’s 0.9% advance, the April core performance indicated that underlying price pressures remained firm during the month.

FAQ

How much did US consumer prices rise in April 2026?
US consumer prices increased by 0.6% month-over-month in April 2026, matching market expectations and easing from a 0.9% rise in March.

What were the main drivers of inflation in April 2026?
Key drivers included a 3.8% jump in energy prices, a 0.6% rise in shelter costs, and a 0.5% increase in food prices, alongside gains in categories such as household furnishings, airline fares, personal care, apparel, and education.

How did core inflation perform in April 2026?
Core inflation, which excludes food and energy, rose 0.4% month-over-month in April 2026, the highest rate since January 2025 and above the expected 0.3%.

Which price indexes declined in April 2026?
The indexes for new vehicles, communication, and medical care fell in April, offsetting some of the increases seen in other categories.