In November, consumer goods and services cost Yellowknife residents 4.5 per cent more than a year earlier.

The national average increase was 4.3 per cent.

Edmonton residents had to dig deeper to keep up, paying 9.5 per cent more for goods and services than a year earlier.

Cash register shock was comparatively mild in Whitehorse, where prices went up 2.7 per cent.

Driving costs up in Yellowknife over the year were increases for cigarettes, electricity, and inter-city transportation.

Price declines were noted for fresh or frozen beef, recreational equipment and services (excluding vehicles), and personal care supplies and equipment.

The November 2002 consumer price index for Yellowknife rose 0.2 per cent from October.

Fuel oil and the cost of operating a vehicle (buying, leasing, fuel, parts and repairs) were fingered as the main culprits.