Inflation
July Inflation Holds at 3.4% Annual Rate as Shelter Costs Keep Pressure On
via Bureau of Labor Statistics
Consumer prices rose 0.1% in July 2026 and are up 3.4% over the past year, according to the latest federal inflation report. Shelter drove most of the monthly increase, while core inflation — stripping out food and energy — came in at 2.5% annually.
Why it matters
Inflation is still running above the Fed's 2% target, meaning everyday purchases remain more expensive than two years ago and a near-term interest rate cut is unlikely.


