United States grocery prices decreased by 0.1 percent in September

United States grocery prices decreased by 0.1 percent in September, according to an analysis of government data released on October 17, 2026. The Shelby Report cited data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and FMS Solutions showing that food-at-home prices grew by 1.8 percent over the prior twelve months, marking the smallest annual increase recorded in 2026. [1]

Rising energy costs offset the drop in food costs during the month. The Shelby Report reported that gasoline prices jumped 9.1 percent in September alone and are up 34.2 percent compared to the previous year. Gasoline accounted for more than half of the monthly increase in overall consumer prices. [1]

The increase in fuel prices pushed the national annual inflation rate to 3.7 percent in September. That figure represents an increase from the 3.4 percent rate recorded in August, according to the analysis reported by The Shelby Report. [1]

The shifting prices impacted store revenue during the period. FMS Solutions reported that sales among its independent grocery store clients fell by 2.1 percent during September as energy costs strained consumer budgets. [1]