Summary

• The AIER Everyday Price Index rose to 316.0 in May 2026, up 1.22 from the previous month.
• The index has risen 6.3 percent since the start of 2026, 5.4 percent since the start of the Iran War and 7.3 percent year-over-year.
• Core inflation cooled materially in May, with prices excluding food and energy rising 0.2 percent after a 0.4 percent gain in April, though shelter costs remained firm.

By Peter C. Earle

AIER’s cost index rose sharply in May amid higher energy costs, while softer core inflation suggested consumers are becoming more price-sensitive.

The AIER Everyday Price Index (EPI) rose to 316.0 in May 2026, up