Money Basics

Inflation

Inflation is a broad rise in prices over time. It reduces what the same number of dollars can buy.

4 min

Money 101 • 08

Inflation is about purchasing power.

When prices rise broadly over time, the same amount of money buys fewer goods and services.

Canada commonly measures consumer inflation with the Consumer Price Index.

The CPI tracks changes in the price of a basket of goods and services purchased by consumers.

Inflation can show up in everyday categories.

01Food02Housing-related costs03Transportation04Clothing05Recreation and other services

Price increase and inflation are related but not identical.

01

One price rises

A specific product or service became more expensive.

02

Inflation

Prices are rising more broadly across the economy.

Purchasing power changes even when your cash balance does not.

Cash today$100
Example inflation3%
Same basket next year$103
Result$100 buys a little less

Inflation does not mean every price rises at the same rate.

Some prices may rise faster, some slower, and some may fall.

Inflation matters when thinking about

01Long-term savings goals02Wage growth03Retirement spending04Investment returns05The future cost of large purchases

Remember this

Count what your money can buy, not only how many dollars you have.

Inflation connects the number in the account with its real-world purchasing power.

Lesson complete

Reviewed 2026-08-18

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