UK inflation rises to 3.5% in September from 3.1%, led by motor fuels
The ONS reports UK CPI inflation at 3.5% in the year to September, up from 3.1% in August. Core inflation rose to 2.8%, and services inflation to 3.7%.
The Office for National Statistics reported on 21 October 2026 that consumer prices rose 3.5% in the year to September, up from 3.1% in August. Prices rose 0.4% on the month.
The main figures
- Core CPI (excluding energy, food, alcohol and tobacco): 2.8%, up from 2.6%
- Goods: 3.2%, up from 2.7%
- Services: 3.7%, up from 3.4%
- Monthly change: +0.4% in September
Transport, particularly motor fuels, made the largest upward contribution to the change. The ONS chart shows motor fuel inflation at its highest since August 2022. Restaurants and hotels made the largest offsetting contribution.
Reading it
Headline inflation rose by more than core, so energy and fuel account for much of the increase. Services inflation rose to 3.7%, which is the component most closely tied to domestic price pressure. The Bank of England held Bank Rate at 3.75% in September (report).
The rise follows August's 3.1% reading. For the energy link, see energy inflation explained. For the currency channel, see how inflation moves currencies. Live prices: GBP/USD.
Sources
Common questions
What was UK inflation in September 2026?
The ONS reports CPI inflation at 3.5% in the year to September, up from 3.1% in August.
What was UK core inflation in September 2026?
Core CPI, which excludes energy, food, alcohol and tobacco, rose to 2.8% from 2.6% in August.
What pushed up UK inflation in September 2026?
Transport, particularly motor fuels, made the largest upward contribution, according to the ONS.
This article is for information only and is not financial advice. Trading forex and CFDs carries a high risk of losing money. Read the risk warning. Spotted an error? Tell the editors.
Comments
Log in to join the discussion. Comments follow the community guidelines.
Log in to commentLoading comments…