Are prices lower in stores compared to a year ago?

Looking up whether store prices are down from a year ago — I'll check the latest inflation data.

No, in the US average store prices are not lower than a year ago - the rate of increase has slowed but prices are still higher year-over-year.

•The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the Consumer Price Index increased 3.4% in August from year-ago levels

•Official release: The all items index increased 3.4 percent before seasonal adjustment over the last 12 months and The all items index rose 3.4 percent for the 12 months ending August as it did for the 12 months ending July

•For food / groceries specifically:

•The energy index increased 16.3 percent for the 12 months ending August, The food index increased 2.7 percent over the last year

•The food at home index rose 2.2 percent over the 12 months ending in August

•Other measures agree: In August, prices for everyday goods are up 2.2% versus a year ago

Disinflation is not deflation - a lower inflation rate means prices are rising more slowly, not that they have fallen back to last year's level.

A few specific store categories are lower year-over-year, but they are exceptions:

•The dairy and related products index fell 0.3 percent over the year

•Used cars and trucks: -2.3% year-over-year

•Medical care commodities: -2.7% year-over-year

Citations (1)

1bls.govGovernment
Consumer Price Index News Release - 2026 M08 Results
Backs: “The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the Consumer Price Index increased 3.4% in August from year-ago levels. Official release: The all items index increased 3.4 percent before seasonal adjustment over the last 12 months and The all items index rose 3.4 percent for the 12 months ending August as it did for the…”