Phoenix grocery costs up 3.8% since 2024

When you make your first trip to Vallarta — or next trip to your neighborhood market — you may have to shell out more for your bill.

The big picture: While Valley grocery prices dipped slightly between November and December of last year, they remain 3.8% higher than in December 2024, according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data released this week.

• That's compared to 2.4% year-over-year growth nationally.

Why it matters: The data comes as the White House attempts to address consumers' affordability concerns ahead of midterm elections.

The bottom line: Consumer sentiment is at historic lows. The drop-off in inflation in recent years is little consolation for consumers who are still seeing high prices on essentials.