3 Items Hit Hardest by Inflation in August — And How To Save

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As of June 2025, overall inflation has cooled to around 2.7 % year-over-year, with food-at-home prices up about 2.4 % and energy roughly -0.8 % over that span. 

However, certain essentials remain painfully expensive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the most inflation-hit categories are projected to stay under pressure into August, with the official July Consumer Price Index (CPI) showing that overall prices has remained relatively unchanged.

Here are three everyday items that are likely to stay expensive, and how you can save if you plan to buy them this month.

Eggs

In June, the retail egg CPI fell 7.4% from May, but remains 27.3% higher year-over-year. Egg prices have been on a roller coaster for the past few years, largely because of the avian flu that’s wiped out millions of egg-laying hens. In June, prices for eggs actually dropped from the month before and dropped again by 3.9% in July. Compared to a year ago, they’re still more than 27% higher. 

This means that even though things might look a little better at the grocery store right now, you’re still paying a premium compared to last summer. Supply remains tight, and prices can jump again if there are new outbreaks or other supply chain issues.

If eggs are a staple in your home, there are a few ways to stretch your budget. You might try using plant-based alternatives, like tofu scrambles or chickpea flour omelets, for some meals. When you see eggs on sale, consider buying extra and freezing liquid egg products for later. Grocery store loyalty programs and discount apps can also help you find deals on eggs that are close to their sell-by date but still perfectly fine to use.

Red Meat and Poultry

Meat prices have also been climbing. Beef in particular is expensive right now, with prices in June up more than 10% compared to last year. In July, prices jumped an additional 1.5%.

Poultry has seen smaller increases, but it’s still more costly than it was a year ago. These meat price jumps are caused by a combination of factors: Smaller cattle herds, drought conditions affecting feed supplies and ongoing challenges in poultry production following disease outbreaks. Strong demand from consumers is also keeping prices from falling.

If you’re feeling the pinch in the meat aisle, you can cut costs without giving it up entirely. Swapping in more plant-based proteins, like beans or lentils, for part of your meals can help. When you do buy meat, choose less expensive cuts such as chicken thighs instead of breasts, or ground beef instead of steaks. 

Buying in bulk when prices are lower and freezing portions for later can also make a difference over time. And don’t forget to check sales ads and use digital coupons. These savings can add up quickly.

Gasoline and Energy

Energy costs are another area where inflation is still noticeable. In June, gasoline prices rose slightly from the month before, and while they’re lower than they were a year ago, experts expect seasonal demand to keep them higher during the summer.

Electricity and natural gas, on the other hand, have both climbed significantly over the past year. Electricity is up nearly 6% and natural gas prices have jumped more than 14%. In July, energy prices across all major categories dipped slightly.

To save on gas, it’s worth using price-comparison apps to find the cheapest stations near you and combining errands to make fewer trips. Carpooling or using public transportation when possible can also help. At home, small changes in how you use energy can make a noticeable difference in your utility bills. Adjust your thermostat a few degrees, unplug electronics when not in use and make sure your home is well-sealed to prevent energy loss.

If your area offers different utility plans, it might be worth comparing rates or looking into rebate programs for energy-efficient upgrades.

Other Items To Watch

Beyond these essentials, some other categories are seeing noticeable price pressure, too. Non-alcoholic beverages like coffee, juice and soda have become more expensive, partly due to higher costs for ingredients like coffee beans and citrus, as well as increased packaging and transportation costs. 

Sugar and sweets are also pricier than they were last year. If you’re trying to save, making drinks like coffee or iced tea at home can be far cheaper than buying them ready-made, and store-brand options often cost less than name brands without much difference in taste.

Even with overall inflation easing, certain everyday items are still stretching household budgets. Eggs, meat and energy costs are likely to remain high through August, with some non-essential grocery categories also feeling the squeeze. 

While you can’t control prices, you can adjust your shopping habits by:

• Swapping in affordable alternatives
• Buying in bulk when deals come up
• Using discount tools
• Making small efficiency changes at home

These steps might not erase the price hikes completely, but they can help you keep your budget on track while still getting the items you need.

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