Ward Media | Kitsap Business
Consumer prices in the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue area increased 1.1 percent from December 2024 to February 2025, with annual inflation reaching 2.5 percent, according to data released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The energy index showed the largest bi-monthly increase at 4.7 percent, including a 3.5 percent rise in gasoline prices. The core index, which excludes food and energy, rose 1.0 percent.
Food prices increased modestly, up 0.3 percent over the two-month period. Grocery store purchases (food at home) rose 0.5 percent while restaurant and other food away from home increased 0.2 percent.
Medical care costs saw the highest category increase during the period, jumping 2.6 percent, while shelter costs increased by 0.7 percent. Some categories showed price decreases, including alcoholic beverages (-1.6 percent) and recreation (-0.1 percent).
Year-over-year, energy costs have risen 7.4 percent, followed by a 4.5 percent increase in shelter costs. Apparel prices dropped significantly over the past year, down 10.1 percent.
The Seattle area’s 2.5 percent annual inflation rate continues a moderating trend from previous years, down from 4.3 percent reported in February 2024.
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