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Inflation, as measured by the Consumer Price Index for all Urban Consumers (CPI-U), rose 2.9 percent nationwide over the 12 months ending in December ’24. In metro Houston, consumer prices grew at a slower 1.0 percent rate over the period. Core inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy costs, followed similar trends, rising by 3.2 percent nationally and 1.3 percent in Houston.

Inflation was lower in metro Houston largely due to differences in housing costs, which rose 4.1 percent nationwide since December ’23 but only 0.4 percent in Houston. BLS includes rent, utilities, and other expenses in calculating these changes. 

Medical care, food away from home (i.e. dining at restaurants), and recreation saw annual price increases of 2.0 percent or more in metro Houston. Housing, food at home (i.e. groceries), apparel, alcoholic beverages, education and communication services saw price increases under 2.0 percent. New and used vehicles, gasoline, electricity, and home furnishings saw price declines.

The next release of CPI data will be on February 12, 2025.

Prepared by Greater Houston Partnership Research

Colin Baker
Manager of Economic Research
bakerc@houston.org