Cost Components
12/12/2023 |
The CPI is designed to broadly capture changes in the prices of goods and services purchased by U.S. consumers. The largest component is housing, with a weight of 44.6%. Next is transportation at 17.2%, then food and beverages at 14.2%. Medical care is fourth at 7.8%, education and communication are 5.7%, recreation is 5.3%, other goods and services are 2.7%, and apparel has a weight of 2.6%. Housing really matters.