CPI-U in 1934
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 13.4 in 1934 (1982–84 = 100), 3.1% above the 1933 average. From December 1933 to December 1934, prices rose 1.5%. Prices in August 2026 were 25.00 times their 1934 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1934
The highest monthly index in 1934 was 13.6 (September), the lowest 13.2 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +1.5% in August to +5.6% in May. Historical context — Depression recovery (1934–1941): Prices recovered slowly after the 1933 devaluation of the dollar.
| Month | CPI-U index | Change from prior month | 12-month change |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1934 | 13.2 | 0.0% | +2.3% |
| February 1934 | 13.3 | +0.8% | +4.7% |
| March 1934 | 13.3 | 0.0% | +5.6% |
| April 1934 | 13.3 | 0.0% | +5.6% |
| May 1934 | 13.3 | 0.0% | +5.6% |
| June 1934 | 13.4 | +0.8% | +5.5% |
| July 1934 | 13.4 | 0.0% | +2.3% |
| August 1934 | 13.4 | 0.0% | +1.5% |
| September 1934 | 13.6 | +1.5% | +3.0% |
| October 1934 | 13.5 | −0.7% | +2.3% |
| November 1934 | 13.5 | 0.0% | +2.3% |
| December 1934 | 13.4 | −0.7% | +1.5% |
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 13.4 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1934: common questions
What was the CPI in 1934?
The CPI-U annual average for 1934 was 13.4 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 13.2 to 13.6.
What was the inflation rate in 1934?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 3.1% in 1934; December to December the change was +1.5%.
How much is $100 from 1934 worth today?
About $2,499.85 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.