The Cost of Living
The Times monthly survey of the cost of goods and services commonly purchased by Southern California residents found prices fluctuating on most survey items in August. Notable changes include toilet tissue, fresh chicken and milk.
Highlight: Sale prices accounted for the lower cost of toilet tissue and fresh chicken in this month’s survey. A gallon of milk, which had declined last month, returned to its normal price level. Gasoline prices continued their steady climb, adding a nickel a gallon over July’s price and 15 cents since February--the first month of The Times’ survey. Analysts say recent price increases reflect peak summer demand and higher wholesale prices.
July August % Chg. Groceries Chicken (per lb., best of fryer cut up) $1.59 $1.39* -13% 13 oz. can of coffee $2.50 $2.53 +1% 1 dz. eggs (grade AA large) $1.94 $1.91 -2% 24 oz. wheat bread $2.04 $2.03 ** 1 lb. pinto beans $0.56 $0.54 -4% 10 lb. bag of potatoes $1.89 $2.03 +7% Navel oranges (per lb.)*** $ -- -- 1 gal. homogenized milk $2.27 $2.50 +10% 1 lb. broccoli (fresh) $0.64* $0.63 -2% 8 oz. package of chocolate candy $1.76 $1.76 unchg. Six-pack beer (12 oz. cans) $4.36 $4.43 +2% 1 doz. corn tortillas $0.47 $0.45 -4% 10 lb. bag dry dog food $6.46 $6.63 +3% Super concentrated detergent (30-load) $7.34 $7.36 ** Toilet tissue (4-roll package) $1.56 $1.30* -17% Eating out Fast-food cheeseburger $0.80 $0.83 +4% Other goods and services 1 gal gas. (unleaded self-serve) $1.01 $1.06 +5% 3-pack, boys size 12 cotton briefs $3.96 $3.96 unchg. Dry cleaning man’s two-piece suit $7.11 $7.11 unchg. Professional drain cleaning $44.56 $44.56 unchg. Manicure 7.75 $7.75 unchg.
* Includes at least one sale price. ** Less than 1% change.
*** Out of season.