Consumer Price Index
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is a measure that tracks changes in the average prices of goods and services commonly purchased by households over time, serving as a key indicator of inflation. It reflects the cost of a basket of goods, including food, housing, transportation, and healthcare, weighted by their importance in consumer spending. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) publishes the CPI monthly, providing insights into the purchasing power of money and guiding policymakers, businesses, and individuals in economic decision-making.