Inflation slowed through much of last year – falling as low as 2.4% from a 40-year high of 9.1% in mid-2022 – but it has remained stubbornly high since fall. The cost of services such as car insurance, auto repairs and health care have continued to rise in part because of the delayed effects of pandemic-related vehicle shortages or wage increases.

January's consumer price index exceeded expectations, leading to diminished hopes for multiple Federal Reserve rate cuts. With inflation at 3.0% and tariffs looming, Fed officials are cautious about easing policy too quickly while monitoring economic impacts.

Consumer Price Index showed that while average price gains are moderating, some everyday prices are seeing big price gains.