1,000-Word Charts: Inflation in the U.S. and Canada

Due to its complexity, much of the subject matter concerning the economy requires detailed editorial commentary, often supported by relevant tables and graphs.

At the same time, though, there are many topics (e.g., relating to demographics, housing starts, etc.) that cry out for compelling ‘shorthand’ visualizations.

Whichever path is followed, the point of the journey, almost always, is to reach a bottom line or two.

To provide additional value, ConstructConnect is now pleased to offer an ongoing series of 1,000-word charts.

These will help readers sort out the ‘big picture’ more clearly.

These 1,000-word charts look at the latest inflation rates in the U.S. and Canada as of February 2021.

Graph 1: U.S. Inflation: All Items (CPI-U) vs All Items Less Food & Energy (i.e., ‘Core’*)
(Not Seasonally Adjusted)

In the U.S., the February 2021 year-over-year change in the energy sub-component index was +2.4%. Gasoline was +1.5% y/y (and +6.9% m/m NSA).

The latest data points are for February, 2021.
The U.S. figure (CPI-U) is the All Items Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers.
*Core inflation is CPI-U less its often most volatile sub-components, food and energy.

Data source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (Department of Labor).
Chart: ConstructConnect.

Graph 2: Canada Inflation: All Items CPI vs Core*
(Not Seasonally Adjusted)

In Canada, the February 2021 year-over-year change in the energy sub-component index was +2.4%. Gasoline was +5.0% y/y (and +6.5% m/m NSA).

The latest data points are for February 2021.
The Canada figure (CPI) is the All Items Consumer Price Index.
*Core inflation is CPI-U less its often most volatile sub-components, food and energy.

Data source: Statistics Canada.
Chart: ConstructConnect.

Please click on the following link to view the latest inflation charts for the U.S. and Canada: CanaData Forecaster Charts & Tables – Inflation

Alex Carrick is Chief Economist for ConstructConnect. He has delivered presentations throughout North America on the U.S., Canadian and world construction outlooks. Mr. Carrick has been with the company since 1985. Links to his numerous articles are featured on Twitter @ConstructConnx, which has 50,000 followers.