Core inflation, a gauge that is closely monitored by the Federal Reserve jumped 6.1% in January compared with a year ago in the latest evidence that Americans are enduring sharp price increases.

The figure reported Friday by the Commerce Department were the largest year-over-year rise since 1982.

The rise con be attributed to robust consumer spending which when combined with widespread product and worker shortages, created the highest inflation in four decades.

That increased spending was, itself, fueled by pay raises given to workers who were able to save more.

Inflation is expected to remain high and perhaps accelerate in the coming months amid the Ukraine Crisis and continued supply and job shortages.