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Seattle Prices Surge 4.9% in April, Gas Hits $6

5/13/2026

22 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Seattle-area consumer prices rose 4.9% in April, the fastest increase since August 2023.
Gasoline prices jumped 29% to over $6 a gallon while overall costs rose 24%.
Apparel prices rose 15% and recreation, produce and restaurant food increased 7-8%.
UW professor Thomas Gilbert warned wages lag, while James McCafferty said fuel prices, tariffs and higher fertilizer transport through the Strait of Hormuz could lift food costs.

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Story summary

Seattle-area consumer prices rose 4.9% in April, the fastest increase since August 2023.
Gasoline prices jumped 29% to over $6 a gallon while overall costs rose 24%.
Apparel prices rose 15% and recreation, produce and restaurant food increased 7-8%.
UW professor Thomas Gilbert warned wages lag, while James McCafferty said fuel prices, tariffs and higher fertilizer transport through the Strait of Hormuz could lift food costs.