CPI-U in 1939
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 13.9 in 1939 (1982–84 = 100), 1.4% below the 1938 average. From December 1938 to December 1939, prices rose 0.0%. Prices in August 2026 were 24.10 times their 1939 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1939
The highest monthly index in 1939 was 14.1 (September), the lowest 13.8 (April). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from −2.8% in April to 0.0% in December. 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 1939 | 14.0 | 0.0% | −1.4% |
| February 1939 | 13.9 | −0.7% | −1.4% |
| March 1939 | 13.9 | 0.0% | −1.4% |
| April 1939 | 13.8 | −0.7% | −2.8% |
| May 1939 | 13.8 | 0.0% | −2.1% |
| June 1939 | 13.8 | 0.0% | −2.1% |
| July 1939 | 13.8 | 0.0% | −2.1% |
| August 1939 | 13.8 | 0.0% | −2.1% |
| September 1939 | 14.1 | +2.2% | 0.0% |
| October 1939 | 14.0 | −0.7% | 0.0% |
| November 1939 | 14.0 | 0.0% | 0.0% |
| December 1939 | 14.0 | 0.0% | 0.0% |
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 1939: common questions
What was the CPI in 1939?
The CPI-U annual average for 1939 was 13.9 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 13.8 to 14.1.
What was the inflation rate in 1939?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices fell 1.4% in 1939; December to December the change was 0.0%.
How much is $100 from 1939 worth today?
About $2,409.93 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.