CPI-U in 1936
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 13.9 in 1936 (1982–84 = 100), 1.5% above the 1935 average. From December 1935 to December 1936, prices rose 1.4%. Prices in August 2026 were 24.10 times their 1936 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1936
The highest monthly index in 1936 was 14.0 (December), the lowest 13.7 (March). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from −0.7% in April to +2.2% in October. 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 1936 | 13.8 | 0.0% | +1.5% |
| February 1936 | 13.8 | 0.0% | +0.7% |
| March 1936 | 13.7 | −0.7% | 0.0% |
| April 1936 | 13.7 | 0.0% | −0.7% |
| May 1936 | 13.7 | 0.0% | −0.7% |
| June 1936 | 13.8 | +0.7% | +0.7% |
| July 1936 | 13.9 | +0.7% | +1.5% |
| August 1936 | 14.0 | +0.7% | +2.2% |
| September 1936 | 14.0 | 0.0% | +2.2% |
| October 1936 | 14.0 | 0.0% | +2.2% |
| November 1936 | 14.0 | 0.0% | +1.4% |
| December 1936 | 14.0 | 0.0% | +1.4% |
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 13.9 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1936: common questions
What was the CPI in 1936?
The CPI-U annual average for 1936 was 13.9 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 13.7 to 14.0.
What was the inflation rate in 1936?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 1.5% in 1936; December to December the change was +1.4%.
How much is $100 from 1936 worth today?
About $2,409.93 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.