CPI-U in 1937
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 14.4 in 1937 (1982–84 = 100), 3.6% above the 1936 average. From December 1936 to December 1937, prices rose 2.9%. Prices in August 2026 were 23.26 times their 1937 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1937
The highest monthly index in 1937 was 14.6 (October), the lowest 14.1 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +2.2% in January to +5.1% 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 1937 | 14.1 | +0.7% | +2.2% |
| February 1937 | 14.1 | 0.0% | +2.2% |
| March 1937 | 14.2 | +0.7% | +3.6% |
| April 1937 | 14.3 | +0.7% | +4.4% |
| May 1937 | 14.4 | +0.7% | +5.1% |
| June 1937 | 14.4 | 0.0% | +4.3% |
| July 1937 | 14.5 | +0.7% | +4.3% |
| August 1937 | 14.5 | 0.0% | +3.6% |
| September 1937 | 14.6 | +0.7% | +4.3% |
| October 1937 | 14.6 | 0.0% | +4.3% |
| November 1937 | 14.5 | −0.7% | +3.6% |
| December 1937 | 14.4 | −0.7% | +2.9% |
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 14.4 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1937: common questions
What was the CPI in 1937?
The CPI-U annual average for 1937 was 14.4 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 14.1 to 14.6.
What was the inflation rate in 1937?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 3.6% in 1937; December to December the change was +2.9%.
How much is $100 from 1937 worth today?
About $2,326.25 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.