Consumer prices rose 3.7% in September, compared to year ago, higher than expected

The cost of goods and services in the U.S. increased last month 3.7%, compared to the same time last year, the Labor Department reported Thursday.

The data in the agency's monthly Consumer Price Index report also showed prices increased 0.4% in September, compared to August.

Both increases were slightly faster than expected, according to CNBC.com.

The Dow Jones estimates 3.6% and of 0.3%, respectively.

The report by the agency's Bureau of Labor Statistics keeps the spotlight on inflation and efforts by the Federal Reserve, specifically interest-rate increase, to slow the rate.