For Immediate Release:
March 13, 2025

Contact:
Lobna Hassairi (202) 250-9168
media@prosperitynow.org

Inflation Slows, But Financial Struggles Persist for Americans

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The February Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by 0.2%, reflecting price increases across a broad range of goods and services in the U.S. economy [LINK]. This marks a slowdown from January's concerning 0.5% increase. On an annual basis, inflation stood at 2.8% in February, down from January, yet it remains elevated despite the Federal Reserve’s ongoing efforts to reach its 2% target, continuing to pose challenges for many Americans.  

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“While the latest CPI report offers some relief, it may be short-lived,” said Marisa Calderon, President and CEO of Prosperity Now. “The data doesn’t fully capture the potential effect of recent tariff increases, which have fueled rising consumer inflation expectations. As these tariffs ripple through the economy, they could drive up the cost of everyday essentials—from groceries to household goods—placing an even greater burden on families already struggling to make ends meet.”  

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Meanwhile, the Producer Price Index (PPI) report released this morning [LINK], a key measure of inflationary pressures in the supply chain, showed no overall gain in February after rising a revised 0.6% in January, with gas prices falling 4.7% and egg prices surging 53.6%.  

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Producer prices serve as an early indicator of changes in consumer costs, and while both reports suggest progress, they do not guarantee the financial stability that Americans need.

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“A slight decline in producer prices is also a step in the right direction, but it’s not enough to ease the financial strain that millions of families are facing,” continued Calderon. “Businesses may still pass higher costs from tariffs and supply chain disruptions onto consumers, keeping everyday expenses out of reach for many households. Without comprehensive policies that protect American families—such as affordable housing initiatives, expanded access to capital for small businesses, and meaningful tax reforms—many will continue to feel the financial squeeze.”

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At Prosperity Now, we are more committed than ever to working with partners and elected officials to develop creative, practical solutions that foster job creating, support small business growth, and strengthen communities—ensuring that every American has an opportunity to achieve financial stability and lasting prosperity.  

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About Prosperity Now - Since 1979, Prosperity Now has been a trusted leader in strengthening financial security, expanding access to capital, and ensuring economic stability for businesses, families, and communities. We work across sectors to develop practical, scalable solutions that create lasting change. Through innovation, strategic investment, and collaboration, we build the infrastructure needed to sustain small business growth, housing opportunities, and financial well-being in an evolving economic landscape. Learn more at www.prosperitynow.org.

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