Real average weekly earnings rose 0.6% in August from July, according to preliminary, seasonally adjusted data released today by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The increase stemmed from a 0.4% increase in average hourly earnings combined with a 0.2% decrease in the consumer price index for urban wage earners and clerical workers.

Average weekly earnings were $611.90 in August before seasonal adjustment and inflation, compared with $592.28 a year earlier.