CPI-U in 1942
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 16.3 in 1942 (1982–84 = 100), 10.9% above the 1941 average. From December 1941 to December 1942, prices rose 9.0%. Prices in August 2026 were 20.55 times their 1942 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1942
The highest monthly index in 1942 was 16.9 (December), the lowest 15.7 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +9.0% in December to +13.2% in May. Historical context — World War II price controls (1942–1945): Office of Price Administration controls held measured inflation down.
| Month | CPI-U index | Change from prior month | 12-month change |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1942 | 15.7 | +1.3% | +11.3% |
| February 1942 | 15.8 | +0.6% | +12.1% |
| March 1942 | 16.0 | +1.3% | +12.7% |
| April 1942 | 16.1 | +0.6% | +12.6% |
| May 1942 | 16.3 | +1.2% | +13.2% |
| June 1942 | 16.3 | 0.0% | +10.9% |
| July 1942 | 16.4 | +0.6% | +11.6% |
| August 1942 | 16.5 | +0.6% | +10.7% |
| September 1942 | 16.5 | 0.0% | +9.3% |
| October 1942 | 16.7 | +1.2% | +9.2% |
| November 1942 | 16.8 | +0.6% | +9.1% |
| December 1942 | 16.9 | +0.6% | +9.0% |
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 16.3 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1942: common questions
What was the CPI in 1942?
The CPI-U annual average for 1942 was 16.3 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 15.7 to 16.9.
What was the inflation rate in 1942?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 10.9% in 1942; December to December the change was +9.0%.
How much is $100 from 1942 worth today?
About $2,055.09 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.