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Inflation in the United States recorded a slight uptick in May 2025, with a year-on-year increase of 2.4%, according to data released this Friday by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
The monthly increase was 0.1%, driven mainly by the rising costs of housing and food, and despite President Donald Trump insisting on denying the figures.
According to the report, the component that contributed the most to the monthly increase was the housing index, which rose by 0.3% in May, remaining one of the structural factors of inflationary pressure.
On an annual basis, housing costs have increased by 3.9%, although this figure represents the lowest rate since 2021.
The food index also rose by 0.3% month-on-month, with increases in both food consumed at home and away from it.
The data highlights increases in cereals and bakery products (+1.1%) and in fruits and vegetables (+0.3%), while eggs decreased by 2.7% in May.
However, in year-on-year terms, eggs have registered an accumulated inflation of 41.5%.
In contrast, the energy index fell by 1.0%, due to a 2.6% drop in gasoline prices.
There were also decreases in the cost of new vehicles (-0.3%), used cars (-0.5%), and clothing (-0.4%), which helped to moderate the overall increase in prices.
The core index —which excludes food and energy— increased by a modest 0.1% in May, after rising 0.2% in April.
In the last 12 months, this measure increased by 2.8%, below the 2.9% predicted by analysts. Medical services (+0.3%), vehicle insurance (+0.7%), and education (+0.3%) were among the sectors that recorded moderate increases.
Although current data shows contained inflation, experts warn that the effects of the new trade tariffs have not yet fully reflected in prices.
“The inflation data being below expectations is reassuring, but only to a certain extent,” commented Seema Shah, strategist at Principal Asset Management. “Price increases driven by tariffs could materialize in the coming months,” she emphasized.
The White House continues key trade negotiations with China and other countries affected by the new tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. Some agreements could be reached before July, which would mark a turning point in the evolution of prices.
The Federal Reserve has stated that it is closely monitoring the evolution of the core index as an indicator of sustained inflationary pressures.
Frequently Asked Questions about Inflation in the United States in 2025
What was the increase in inflation in the United States in May 2025?
Inflation in the United States recorded a year-on-year increase of 2.4% in May 2025, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This rise was primarily driven by higher costs for housing and food.
What factors are currently driving inflation in the United States?
The main factors driving inflation are the rise in housing and food costs. The housing index increased by 0.3% in May 2025, and food also recorded a monthly increase of 0.3%. Additionally, President Trump's tariff policies could contribute to a future rise in inflation.
How have tariff policies affected inflation in the U.S.?
Tariff policies are causing concern over a possible increase in inflation. The tariffs imposed by the Trump administration could lead to a persistent inflationary spike. The Federal Reserve has warned that the tariffs could hinder economic growth and result in a rise in inflation.
How have prices for specific food items like eggs reacted in the current context?
In May 2025, egg prices experienced a monthly decline of 2.7%, although on a year-over-year basis, they have accumulated an increase of 41.5%. The egg crisis in the U.S., driven by avian flu, has been a significant factor in the rising prices of this product.
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