CPI-U in 1919
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 17.3 in 1919 (1982–84 = 100), 14.6% above the 1918 average. From December 1918 to December 1919, prices rose 14.5%. Prices in August 2026 were 19.36 times their 1919 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1919
The highest monthly index in 1919 was 18.9 (December), the lowest 16.2 (February). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +13.1% in October to +17.9% in January. 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 1919 | 16.5 | 0.0% | +17.9% |
| February 1919 | 16.2 | −1.8% | +14.9% |
| March 1919 | 16.4 | +1.2% | +17.1% |
| April 1919 | 16.7 | +1.8% | +17.6% |
| May 1919 | 16.9 | +1.2% | +16.6% |
| June 1919 | 16.9 | 0.0% | +15.0% |
| July 1919 | 17.4 | +3.0% | +15.2% |
| August 1919 | 17.7 | +1.7% | +14.9% |
| September 1919 | 17.8 | +0.6% | +13.4% |
| October 1919 | 18.1 | +1.7% | +13.1% |
| November 1919 | 18.5 | +2.2% | +13.5% |
| December 1919 | 18.9 | +2.2% | +14.5% |
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 17.3 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1919: common questions
What was the CPI in 1919?
The CPI-U annual average for 1919 was 17.3 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 16.2 to 18.9.
What was the inflation rate in 1919?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 14.6% in 1919; December to December the change was +14.5%.
How much is $100 from 1919 worth today?
About $1,936.30 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.