CPI-U in 1944
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 17.6 in 1944 (1982–84 = 100), 1.7% above the 1943 average. From December 1943 to December 1944, prices rose 2.3%. Prices in August 2026 were 19.03 times their 1944 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1944
The highest monthly index in 1944 was 17.8 (December), the lowest 17.4 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from 0.0% in May to +3.0% in February. 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 1944 | 17.4 | 0.0% | +3.0% |
| February 1944 | 17.4 | 0.0% | +3.0% |
| March 1944 | 17.4 | 0.0% | +1.2% |
| April 1944 | 17.5 | +0.6% | +0.6% |
| May 1944 | 17.5 | 0.0% | 0.0% |
| June 1944 | 17.6 | +0.6% | +0.6% |
| July 1944 | 17.7 | +0.6% | +1.7% |
| August 1944 | 17.7 | 0.0% | +2.3% |
| September 1944 | 17.7 | 0.0% | +1.7% |
| October 1944 | 17.7 | 0.0% | +1.7% |
| November 1944 | 17.7 | 0.0% | +1.7% |
| December 1944 | 17.8 | +0.6% | +2.3% |
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 17.6 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1944: common questions
What was the CPI in 1944?
The CPI-U annual average for 1944 was 17.6 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 17.4 to 17.8.
What was the inflation rate in 1944?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 1.7% in 1944; December to December the change was +2.3%.
How much is $100 from 1944 worth today?
About $1,903.30 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.