Annapolis, MD — U.S. consumer prices increased at an annual rate of 2.7% in December 2025, unchanged from November, according to the latest Consumer Price Index report. On a monthly basis, prices rose 0.3% for all items, with shelter and food among the primary contributors at 0.4% and 0.7%, respectively.
The report noted that core inflation — which excludes food and energy — eased slightly to 2.6% year over year, reflecting slower growth in some service categories at the national level.
Maryland Price Trends
In Maryland, consumer prices continue to rise at a somewhat faster pace than the national average, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics for the Baltimore-Columbia-Towson metropolitan area. Regional CPI figures show annual price growth above the U.S. headline rate, driven by increases in housing, food and energy costs.
Energy prices in the region posted year-over-year gains, while food prices also increased, reflecting broader national trends. Housing-related costs remain a significant component of overall price changes in Maryland, consistent with historical patterns in the state.
Cost Categories
Maryland’s consumer price data indicate:
- Shelter costs continue to account for a large share of inflation in the region.
- Food prices rose over the past year, affecting grocery and dining expenses.
- Energy costs showed year-over-year increases, contributing to higher household expenses.
While national inflation remains below levels seen earlier in the decade, regional variations persist. Maryland’s higher baseline cost of living influences how price changes are reflected locally.
Outlook
Federal policymakers continue to monitor incoming data as they assess future interest-rate decisions. For Maryland consumers, recent CPI figures suggest that price growth broadly mirrors national trends, with regional differences largely tied to housing and energy costs.
