United States Inflation Rate — 2026 CPI Data, Trend & Outlook
The United States' inflation rate was 4.25% in May 2026, up from 3.81% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at 2.35%.
The United States' inflation rate stands at 4.25% as of May 2026. Over the latest readings, the inflation rate has moved within a band of -0.04% to 9.06%. The most recent figure of 4.25% is up from 3.81% a month earlier, and is 1.89% higher than a year ago.
The trend
Among the 193 economies tracked on this platform, United States ranks #70 on inflation rate by latest value. It rose from 3.81% in the previous month, and compares with a year-earlier 2.35%.
What's driving it
Inflation is shaped by energy and food prices, the exchange rate, wage growth and the stance of monetary policy; central banks lift interest rates to cool it and ease when it falls back toward target.
Recent readings
| Period | Inflation rate |
|---|---|
| May 2026 | 4.25% |
| Apr 2026 | 3.81% |
| Mar 2026 | 3.26% |
| Feb 2026 | 2.41% |
| Jan 2026 | 2.39% |
| Dec 2025 | 2.68% |
| Nov 2025 | 2.74% |
| Sep 2025 | 3.01% |
Data: Source: OECD (terms permit extract/distribute, incl. commercial, with citation). Figures carry an effective date; confirm with the source before relying on them.
Frequently asked questions
What Is the Inflation Rate in the United States Right Now (2026)?
The United States' inflation rate was 4.25% in May 2026, up from 3.81% the previous month. A year earlier it stood at 2.35%.
Is the inflation rate rising or falling in the United States?
It rose in the latest reading — 4.25% in May 2026 versus 3.81% a month earlier. Year on year it is higher.
What is inflation rate?
It measures how fast consumer prices are rising, measured by the consumer price index (CPI).