Inflation flat in New York area

Inflation for the greater New York area remained flat in December for the second straight month, the Bureau of Labor Statistics said.

There was another 4.9-percent hike in gasoline prices. But prices for apparel fell by 5.3 percent and food decreased by 0.2 percent.

The Consumer Price Index rose 1.4 percent last month compared to a year ago.

Above, motorists line up for gas in Bay Shore this week.

Nationally, consumer prices were up last month as the cost of gas increased by the largest amount since June 2009. Aside from energy costs, however, there was little sign of widespread inflation.

The Consumer Price Index rose 0.5 percent nationally last month, the largest increase in 18 months. All but about 20 percent of the increase was due to an 8.5 percent increase in the gasoline index. Food prices up 0.1 percent.

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