WASHINGTON — U.S. consumer prices barely rose last month as a sharp increase in energy costs was offset by cheaper clothing, cars and air fares. The figures indicate inflation remains mild.
The Labor Department said Thursday that the consumer price index rose just 0.1 percent in January, down from a 0.2 percent gain in December. Prices have risen 1.6 percent in the past 12 months. Excluding the volatile food and energy categories, core prices also rose just 0.1 percent last month and 1.6 percent in the past year.
The year-over-year increase in core prices was the smallest in seven months.
The small increase occurred even though cold weather pushed up the cost of natural gas, electricity and other home energy sources by the most in more than five years.
Yet other items fell or barely rose: Food prices increased just 0.1 percent, and the cost of men’s clothing fell by the most in nearly five years. New and used car prices also dropped, and airline fares declined 2.2 percent.
Inflation has been held back by sluggish growth and a tough job market, which makes it harder for retailers and other businesses to raise prices. Economists warn that super-low inflation may slow economic growth.
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