Monthly
This dataset tracks monthly over time.
Latest Value
4.30
Year-over-Year Change
-18.25%
Date Range
1/1/1997 - 7/1/2025
Summary
The Monthly Consumer Price Index (CPN3M) tracks the average change in prices paid by urban consumers for goods and services. This critical economic indicator helps policymakers and economists understand inflation trends and cost-of-living adjustments.
Analysis & Context
This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.
Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.
About This Dataset
CPN3M represents a comprehensive measure of price fluctuations across various consumer expenditure categories. It reflects the purchasing power of the U.S. dollar and provides insights into overall economic health and consumer spending patterns.
Methodology
The Bureau of Labor Statistics collects price data from thousands of retail and service establishments across urban areas to calculate the monthly index.
Historical Context
Central banks and policymakers use this trend to make critical decisions about monetary policy, interest rates, and economic stimulus strategies.
Key Facts
- Covers approximately 93% of the total U.S. population
- Includes eight major expenditure categories
- Updated monthly with detailed regional breakdowns
- Used for adjusting Social Security and other government benefits
FAQs
Q: What does CPN3M measure?
A: CPN3M measures the average change in prices paid by urban consumers for a basket of goods and services over a monthly period.
Q: How is the Consumer Price Index calculated?
A: The index is calculated by tracking price changes of a fixed market basket of consumer goods and services across different categories.
Q: Why is CPN3M important?
A: CPN3M helps economists and policymakers understand inflation, adjust economic policies, and assess the purchasing power of consumers.
Q: Who publishes the CPN3M data?
A: The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is responsible for collecting and publishing the monthly Consumer Price Index data.
Q: How often is CPN3M updated?
A: The Consumer Price Index is updated and released monthly, typically in the middle of the month following the reference month.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Monthly [CPN3M], retrieved from FRED.
Last Checked: 8/1/2025