CPI-U in 1917
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 12.8 in 1917 (1982–84 = 100), 17.4% above the 1916 average. From December 1916 to December 1917, prices rose 18.1%. Prices in August 2026 were 26.17 times their 1917 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1917
The highest monthly index in 1917 was 13.7 (December), the lowest 11.7 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +12.5% in January to +20.4% in June. Historical context — World War I inflation (1917–1920): Wartime spending roughly doubled the price level in four years.
| Month | CPI-U index | Change from prior month | 12-month change |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1917 | 11.7 | +0.9% | +12.5% |
| February 1917 | 12.0 | +2.6% | +15.4% |
| March 1917 | 12.0 | 0.0% | +14.3% |
| April 1917 | 12.6 | +5.0% | +18.9% |
| May 1917 | 12.8 | +1.6% | +19.6% |
| June 1917 | 13.0 | +1.6% | +20.4% |
| July 1917 | 12.8 | −1.5% | +18.5% |
| August 1917 | 13.0 | +1.6% | +19.3% |
| September 1917 | 13.3 | +2.3% | +19.8% |
| October 1917 | 13.5 | +1.5% | +19.5% |
| November 1917 | 13.5 | 0.0% | +17.4% |
| December 1917 | 13.7 | +1.5% | +18.1% |
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 12.8 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1917: common questions
What was the CPI in 1917?
The CPI-U annual average for 1917 was 12.8 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 11.7 to 13.7.
What was the inflation rate in 1917?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 17.4% in 1917; December to December the change was +18.1%.
How much is $100 from 1917 worth today?
About $2,617.03 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.