The annual inflation rate in Alberta was higher than the national average in October, according to Statistics Canada.

The federal agency reported on Friday that the Consumer Price Index in the province was up 2.8 per cent year over year and compared with a 2.4 per cent hike nationally.

On a month-over-month basis, prices rose by 0.2 per cent in Alberta and by 0.3 per cent in Canada.

StatsCan said the national monthly increase was led by prices for airfares, passenger vehicles and travel tours.

“Prices rose in all major components in the 12 months to October, with the transportation (+4.3 per cent) and shelter (+2.5 per cent) indexes contributing most to the increase. Gasoline prices rose 12.0 per cent year over year in October, matching September’s increase,” said Statistics Canada.

“Prices for durable goods increased 0.9 per cent in the 12 months to October. With lower rebates and more new model-year vehicles available, the purchase of passenger vehicles index rose 1.7 per cent on a year-over-year basis, after increasing 0.6 per cent in September.”

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