The Hidden Ways Inflation Is Still Costing You

Inflation Overview - Inflation has been a persistent issue in the U.S. economy over the past five years, primarily driven by rising prices for groceries and housing [2] - Other categories, such as electricity and utilities, have also seen significant price increases, with electricity prices up 6.9% year-over-year in November [2][3] Energy Sector - Utility gas services, fuel oils, and other motor fuels have increased at rates faster than the overall annual inflation rate of 2.7% [3] - The surge in energy usage by data centers powering artificial intelligence (AI) services is a contributing factor to rising energy prices [3] Household Goods - Furniture prices have risen faster than the inflation rate, with living room, kitchen, and dining room furniture costs up by 4.6% in November [5] - Prices for indoor plants and flowers increased at a faster rate, while cookware and tableware prices rose by 6.3% [6] - Tools saw a price increase of 5.6%, influenced by tariffs, and audio equipment prices increased by over 10% [6][7] Jewelry and Apparel - Jewelry prices rose by 8.3% in November, influenced by tariffs and the surge in gold and silver prices [8] - While overall apparel prices decreased, women's outerwear prices increased by 7.4%, highlighting the impact of tariffs on women's apparel [9] Health Care Costs - Health care services generally rose at the same rate as inflation, but hospital services saw a sharp increase of 6% in November [11] - Dental services costs increased by 4% in the third quarter of 2025, with nursing home costs also rising significantly [11] Financial Services - The cost of financial services surged in 2025, with prices up by 5.6% and fees and commissions rising by more than 8% in the third quarter [12]