There's a lot of "Hidden" inflation, too.

Take our homeowner's insurance. 12 years ago, it was $57-ish a month. On the latest renewal, it was $188/month. The actual premium per $1,000 hasn't risen much, but with property values up 3.5x — and premiums based on value — the rise is nuts, compared to CPI. Similarly with our property taxes which were +/- $1,800/yr when we bought in 2011, but now is closing on $8,000/year.

Basic food items are very patchy. Eggs have gone nuts, while a quart of plain yogurt is about the same as five years ago. A pound of boneless skinless chicken breast has gone from $1.99 to $5.99 lb. Pork chops are only up about 15% or so.

It all invites a lot more attention and mindfulness in how we shop and spend money...