Inflation runs hotter than expected as higher prices extend beyond the gas station

US inflation rose more than forecast in October, raising concerns that price pressures are persistent and spreading beyond petrol. The figures add to economic challenges for the White House and the Federal Reserve, as voters have made the cost of living a major concern.

Consumer prices increased 0.4% from September, while core prices, excluding food and energy, rose 0.3%; both were 0.1 percentage point above forecasts. No annual inflation rate was issued because a government shutdown prevented the release of October 2025 data. Petrol prices were up 37% from a year earlier, while electricity, groceries, air fares and transport also became more expensive. The Fed’s Christopher Waller said a half-point rate rise in December was possible.