Midwest CPI rises 1.6% in January

The Midwest Consumer Price index registered at 230.28 in January, a 1.6 percent increase compared to 226.67 in the same month of 2012, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The CPI - which shows 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 $230.28 last month. The index is not seasonally adjusted, and items are weighted based on their spending significance in certain areas.

Last month's CPI rose 0.3 percent compared to the December figure of 229.60, according to a news release.

The Midwest's energy index declined for the fourth consecutive month, decreasing 0.6 percent in January. The decline was led by a 1.8 percent decrease in motor fuel prices and a 0.7 percent decrease in the cost for piped utility gas service. Declines were offset by a 1.9 percent increase in electricity prices.

January food prices rose 0.2 percent. Food at home and food away from home both rose by 0.2 percent, the release said.

The index for all other items increased 0.2 percent last month. Higher prices were found for shelter, 0.4 percent; medical care, 0.4 percent; recreation, 0.5 percent; and education and communication, 0.4 percent. Partially offsetting the increases was a 1.9 percent decrease in the cost of apparel.

The Midwest region comprises Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin.

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