CPI-U in 1943
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 17.3 in 1943 (1982–84 = 100), 6.1% above the 1942 average. From December 1942 to December 1943, prices rose 3.0%. Prices in August 2026 were 19.36 times their 1943 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1943
The highest monthly index in 1943 was 17.5 (June), the lowest 16.9 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +3.0% in December to +8.1% in April. 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 1943 | 16.9 | 0.0% | +7.6% |
| February 1943 | 16.9 | 0.0% | +7.0% |
| March 1943 | 17.2 | +1.8% | +7.5% |
| April 1943 | 17.4 | +1.2% | +8.1% |
| May 1943 | 17.5 | +0.6% | +7.4% |
| June 1943 | 17.5 | 0.0% | +7.4% |
| July 1943 | 17.4 | −0.6% | +6.1% |
| August 1943 | 17.3 | −0.6% | +4.8% |
| September 1943 | 17.4 | +0.6% | +5.5% |
| October 1943 | 17.4 | 0.0% | +4.2% |
| November 1943 | 17.4 | 0.0% | +3.6% |
| December 1943 | 17.4 | 0.0% | +3.0% |
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 17.3 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1943: common questions
What was the CPI in 1943?
The CPI-U annual average for 1943 was 17.3 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 16.9 to 17.5.
What was the inflation rate in 1943?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 6.1% in 1943; December to December the change was +3.0%.
How much is $100 from 1943 worth today?
About $1,936.30 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.