Midwest CPI climbs 3.1 percent since 2006

The Midwest index was up 3.1 percent from September 2006, according to the report.

All major expenditure categories increased except housing, which was unchanged from August.

Apparel prices had the largest impact on the Midwest CPI, showing a typical September increase of 6.1 percent and accounting for more than one-third of the index’s overall increase. Apparel prices were down 0.7 percent for the year.

Energy prices, which include costs for motor fuel and household fuels and utilities, accounted for more than one-fourth of the increase, rising 1.7 percent in September compared to August and 11.9 percent from a year ago.

The transportation industry had the second-largest effect on the index, as it rose 1 percent in September due to higher motor fuel costs, which climbed 3.5 percent during the month.

Other expenditure categories:

• Food and beverage prices rose 0.5 percent from August and 3.9 percent from a year ago;

• Education and communication costs rose 0.7 percent from August and 2.7 percent from a year ago;

• Medical care costs rose 0.5 percent from August and 4.9 percent from a year ago;

• Recreation prices – including sporting goods, toys and admission to entertainment events – rose 0.3 percent from August and 0.6 percent from a year ago; and

• Other goods and services prices ¬– including tobacco and personal care products – rose 0.3 percent from August and 0.6 percent from a year ago.