Inflation stayed docile for a third straight month in November, helped by falling energy prices and lower costs for everything from new cars and airline tickets to food and clothing.

The Labor Department reported Friday that its closely watched Consumer Price Index was unchanged following sharp declines of 0.5 percent in September and October.

The good news on inflation reflected a big retreat for gasoline and other energy prices, which are down from the record highs set this summer.

Core inflation, which excludes energy and food, was unchanged in November, the best showing in 17 months.