Inflation Rate
Annual percentage change in consumer price index, measuring cost of living increases.
Quick Reference
Unit
%
Category
Economy
Metric Code
inflation
How It's Calculated
Percentage change in Consumer Price Index (CPI) over 12 months. CPI tracks prices of a basket of goods and services typically purchased by households.
Why It Matters
Inflation erodes purchasing power and affects real incomes, savings, and investment decisions. Moderate inflation is normal; very high or negative inflation signals economic problems.
Understanding the Values
Deflation: < 0% (falling prices, often problematic) Very Low: 0-2% (stable, healthy) Target: 2-3% (central bank targets) Moderate: 3-6% (manageable) High: 6-15% (concerning) Very High: 15-50% (serious problem) Hyperinflation: > 50% (crisis)
Related Metrics
Data Quality & Coverage
Coverage: 200+ countries Update frequency: Annual (monthly in some countries) Source: World Bank / IMF Limitations: CPI baskets vary by country; may not reflect all households equally.