U.S. inflation has hit its highest point in 40 years. The March CPI inflation report shows that inflation has increased 8.5% from March 2021 to March 2022.

"Increases in the indexes for gasoline, shelter, and food were the largest contributors to the seasonally adjusted all items increase," the report explained.

But what store items are most affected by inflation?

The CPI inflation report showed some of the largest increases over the past 12 months were the following:

  • Meats, poultry, fish and eggs: 13.7% increase
  • Fruits and vegetables: 7% increase
  • Electricity: 11.1% increase
  • Furniture and bedding: 15.8% increase
  • Women’s dresses: 10.1% increase
  • Jewelry and watches: 2.7% increase
  • Rent of primary residences: 4.4% increase
  • Gasoline: 48% increase

The Federal Reserve had at one point deemed inflation “transitory,” due to shipping delays and temporary shortages of supplies and workers.

But inflation has not slowed. In October, the figure was 6.2% and was followed by 6.8% in November and 7% in December.

“Now, most economists expect inflation to remain elevated well into next year, with demand outstripping supplies in numerous areas of the economy,” according to a report from the Associated Press.