CPI-U in 1940
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 14.0 in 1940 (1982–84 = 100), 0.7% above the 1939 average. From December 1939 to December 1940, prices rose 0.7%. Prices in August 2026 were 23.93 times their 1940 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1940
The highest monthly index in 1940 was 14.1 (December), the lowest 13.9 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from −0.7% in January to +2.2% in June. 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 1940 | 13.9 | −0.7% | −0.7% |
| February 1940 | 14.0 | +0.7% | +0.7% |
| March 1940 | 14.0 | 0.0% | +0.7% |
| April 1940 | 14.0 | 0.0% | +1.4% |
| May 1940 | 14.0 | 0.0% | +1.4% |
| June 1940 | 14.1 | +0.7% | +2.2% |
| July 1940 | 14.0 | −0.7% | +1.4% |
| August 1940 | 14.0 | 0.0% | +1.4% |
| September 1940 | 14.0 | 0.0% | −0.7% |
| October 1940 | 14.0 | 0.0% | 0.0% |
| November 1940 | 14.0 | 0.0% | 0.0% |
| December 1940 | 14.1 | +0.7% | +0.7% |
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 14.0 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1940: common questions
What was the CPI in 1940?
The CPI-U annual average for 1940 was 14.0 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 13.9 to 14.1.
What was the inflation rate in 1940?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 0.7% in 1940; December to December the change was +0.7%.
How much is $100 from 1940 worth today?
About $2,392.71 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.