Energy sector bumps Midwest consumer prices

The Midwest Consumer Price Index increased 0.6 percent to 227.83 in June from May, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The bump was largely attributable to a 6.5 percent increase in energy costs, according to a news release.

The CPI – which reflects price changes for energy, food and all other items – is measured in comparison to a base period of 1982-84. A typical market basket of goods and services that cost $100 in 1982-84 cost $227.83 last month. The index is not seasonally adjusted, and items are weighted based on their spending significance in certain areas, according to the BLS.

Leading the energy sector increase was an 8.5 percent jump in motor fuel prices, as well as a 6.2 percent rise in electricity costs. Piped utility gas services moved up 1.4 percent, according to the release.

Across the Midwest, food prices declined by 0.2 percent. Costs for food at home decreased 0.4 percent, while costs for food away from home were unchanged.

The June index for all other items ticked up 0.2 percent. Increases included medical care commodities, at 1 percent, recreation, at 0.7 percent, and shelter, at 0.6 percent. Apparel prices dropped 1.8 percent, and prices for used cars and trucks declined 0.5 percent, according to the BLS.