Western Information Office

The special aggregate index for energy increased 5.6 percent last month and was 13.0 percent higher than in May 2007, said Regional Commissioner Richard J. Holden of the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Gasoline prices rose 5.2 percent in May 2008 and dominated the increase in the overall energy index. Over the year, gasoline prices were 15.6 percent higher. The household energy index increased 5.8 percent for the month and advanced 4.4 percent for the year. Within household fuels, electricity prices increased 6.9 percent for the month, but decreased 1.0 percent over the year. The utility (piped) gas service index increased 3.4 percent from April to May and was 16.3 percent higher than in May 2007.

The shelter index advanced 0.4 percent in May 2008 and was 1.9 percent higher compared to one year earlier. Within shelter, the rent of primary residence edged up 0.1 percent last month and was 4.1 percent higher than in May 2007. The owners’ equivalent rent of primary residence index rose 0.3 percent over the month and increased 2.6 percent over the year. Also included in shelter, but not part of the publication structure, are price data collected for lodging away from home.

Area grocery prices were up 1.6 percent from April to May, and were 7.1 percent higher than a year ago. The food at home index now stands at 228.742. This means grocery shoppers in the greater Bay Area spent $228.74 in May for a basket of food items that cost $100.00 in 1982-84. Local area CPI data are not seasonally adjusted.

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Last Modified Date: June 16, 2008