US consumer prices increased by 0.2% month-over-month in January 2026, easing from December’s pace and coming in below expectations for a 0.3% rise. Shelter costs climbed 0.2%, while food prices also rose 0.2%, with the index for food at home matching that increase and food away from home edging up 0.1%. Additional upward pressure came from higher airline fares, as well as gains in personal care, recreation, medical care, and communication services. These increases were partly offset by a 1.5% drop in energy prices. Declines were also recorded in used cars and trucks, household furnishings and operations, and motor vehicle insurance, helping to moderate the overall monthly advance.