Executive summary
This report covers the Consumer Price Index release for Feb 2026. The data reflects price changes across all major consumer spending categories, sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. During beta, some figures are illustrative composites based on publicly available BLS data.
Headline inflation
The headline CPI for Feb 2026 showed continued evolution in consumer prices. Energy and food components contributed to the overall index movement, while core inflation — which excludes volatile food and energy categories — provided a clearer picture of underlying price trends. The Bureau of Labor Statistics releases CPI data monthly, and this report presents the key findings in an accessible format.
Category breakdown
Shelter and housing remained the largest contributors to core inflation, though the rate of increase continued to moderate from peak levels. Used vehicle prices showed further normalization. Medical care and transportation services contributed to services inflation, while goods prices remained relatively stable. Food at home and food away from home moved in different directions, reflecting supply chain dynamics and seasonal factors.
Policy implications
The Federal Reserve monitors CPI data closely as it sets monetary policy. Inflation trends influence decisions about interest rates, which in turn affect mortgage rates, credit card APRs, and savings yields. This report does not provide investment advice; it presents publicly available economic data in an educational context.
Monthly data table
| Month | CPI CPI (% YoY) |
|---|---|
| Jan 25 | 2.8% |
| Feb 25 | 3.0% |
| Mar 25 | 3.2% |
| Apr 25 | 3.1% |
| May 25 | 3.2% |
| Jun 25 | 3.0% |
| Jul 25 | 2.9% |
| Aug 25 | 2.7% |
| Sep 25 | 2.9% |
| Oct 25 | 3.4% |
| Nov 25 | 3.3% |
| Dec 25 | 3.0% |
| Jan 26 | 3.1% |
| Feb 26 | 3.1% |
| Mar 26 | 3.2% |
| Apr 26 | 2.6% |
| May 26 | 2.7% |
| Jun 26 | 2.2% |
| Jul 26 | 2.7% |
Methodology
The Consumer Price Index measures the average change over time in prices paid by urban consumers for a market basket of goods and services. TALLY Insights presents this data in an accessible format. Full methodology details are available on our methodology page.