CPI-U in 1916
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 10.9 in 1916 (1982–84 = 100), 7.9% above the 1915 average. From December 1915 to December 1916, prices rose 12.6%. Prices in August 2026 were 30.73 times their 1916 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1916
The highest monthly index in 1916 was 11.6 (December), the lowest 10.4 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +3.0% in January to +12.6% in December. Historical context — Pre-war stability (1913–1916): Prices were broadly flat before the United States entered World War I.
| Month | CPI-U index | Change from prior month | 12-month change |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1916 | 10.4 | +1.0% | +3.0% |
| February 1916 | 10.4 | 0.0% | +4.0% |
| March 1916 | 10.5 | +1.0% | +6.1% |
| April 1916 | 10.6 | +1.0% | +6.0% |
| May 1916 | 10.7 | +0.9% | +5.9% |
| June 1916 | 10.8 | +0.9% | +6.9% |
| July 1916 | 10.8 | 0.0% | +6.9% |
| August 1916 | 10.9 | +0.9% | +7.9% |
| September 1916 | 11.1 | +1.8% | +9.9% |
| October 1916 | 11.3 | +1.8% | +10.8% |
| November 1916 | 11.5 | +1.8% | +11.7% |
| December 1916 | 11.6 | +0.9% | +12.6% |
CPI-U, U.S. city average, all items, not seasonally adjusted, 1982–84 = 100 (BLS series CUUR0000SA0). Before 2007 the BLS published the index to one decimal place. Annual average 10.9 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1916: common questions
What was the CPI in 1916?
The CPI-U annual average for 1916 was 10.9 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 10.4 to 11.6.
What was the inflation rate in 1916?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 7.9% in 1916; December to December the change was +12.6%.
How much is $100 from 1916 worth today?
About $3,073.21 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.