economy
CPI Surged in April as Inflation Soars to Highest Level in Almost 3 Years
Updated on: May 12, 2026 / 9:26 AM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- Inflation reached 3.8% annually in April, up from 3.3% in March.
- Energy prices, particularly gasoline, were the main driver, accounting for 40% of the CPI increase.
- The Iran war has impacted global oil supplies, increasing gas prices and transportation costs.
- Core inflation, excluding food and energy, rose 2.8% year-over-year.
- President Trump proposed suspending the federal gas tax, but experts believe relief will be limited.
- Consumers are experiencing a significant increase in household expenses due to fuel costs.
- Experts predict inflation will continue to rise through the summer before potentially falling by year-end.
- The Federal Reserve is unlikely to cut interest rates soon due to rising inflation and a stagnant labor market.