CPI-U in 1926
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 17.7 in 1926 (1982–84 = 100), 1.1% above the 1925 average. From December 1925 to December 1926, prices fell 1.1%. Prices in August 2026 were 18.93 times their 1926 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1926
The highest monthly index in 1926 was 17.9 (April), the lowest 17.4 (August). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from −1.7% in August to +4.1% in April. Historical context — The 1920s (1923–1929): Prices were nearly flat through the Roaring Twenties.
| Month | CPI-U index | Change from prior month | 12-month change |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1926 | 17.9 | 0.0% | +3.5% |
| February 1926 | 17.9 | 0.0% | +4.1% |
| March 1926 | 17.8 | −0.6% | +2.9% |
| April 1926 | 17.9 | +0.6% | +4.1% |
| May 1926 | 17.8 | −0.6% | +2.9% |
| June 1926 | 17.7 | −0.6% | +1.1% |
| July 1926 | 17.5 | −1.1% | −1.1% |
| August 1926 | 17.4 | −0.6% | −1.7% |
| September 1926 | 17.5 | +0.6% | −1.1% |
| October 1926 | 17.6 | +0.6% | −0.6% |
| November 1926 | 17.7 | +0.6% | −1.7% |
| December 1926 | 17.7 | 0.0% | −1.1% |
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 17.7 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1926: common questions
What was the CPI in 1926?
The CPI-U annual average for 1926 was 17.7 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 17.4 to 17.9.
What was the inflation rate in 1926?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 1.1% in 1926; December to December the change was −1.1%.
How much is $100 from 1926 worth today?
About $1,892.54 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.