Internet, Pay-TV Costs Exceeded Inflation in March: BLS

Internet service and traditional pay-TV costs rose faster than the rate of inflation in March, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics consumer price index unadjusted data released Wednesday. Internet service costs in the U.S. in March rose 4.2% year over year, while cable, satellite and livestreaming TV service costs were up 3.8%, according to BLS data. BLS said March prices overall rose 3.5% year over year before seasonal adjustment. The agency said residential phone service jumped 3.4% year over year, while wireless phone service costs dropped 2.7%. It said smartphone prices dropped 9%, and computers, peripherals and smart home assistants fell 3.8%. Video purchase/subscription/rental rose 8.1%.