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Are prices lower in stores compared to a year ago?
No, prices in stores are generally not lower compared to a year ago (as of the latest data around September/October 2026); they are modestly higher on average, though the increases are mild for many goods, some specific items have declined, and promotions/discounts remain common.[[1]](https://www.bls.gov/news.release/cpi.t01.htm)
Key Data from the U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI, BLS)
The CPI mea