CPI-U in 1945
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 18.0 in 1945 (1982–84 = 100), 2.3% above the 1944 average. From December 1944 to December 1945, prices rose 2.2%. Prices in August 2026 were 18.61 times their 1945 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1945
The highest monthly index in 1945 was 18.2 (December), the lowest 17.8 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +1.7% in April to +2.8% in June. 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 1945 | 17.8 | 0.0% | +2.3% |
| February 1945 | 17.8 | 0.0% | +2.3% |
| March 1945 | 17.8 | 0.0% | +2.3% |
| April 1945 | 17.8 | 0.0% | +1.7% |
| May 1945 | 17.9 | +0.6% | +2.3% |
| June 1945 | 18.1 | +1.1% | +2.8% |
| July 1945 | 18.1 | 0.0% | +2.3% |
| August 1945 | 18.1 | 0.0% | +2.3% |
| September 1945 | 18.1 | 0.0% | +2.3% |
| October 1945 | 18.1 | 0.0% | +2.3% |
| November 1945 | 18.1 | 0.0% | +2.3% |
| December 1945 | 18.2 | +0.6% | +2.2% |
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 18.0 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1945: common questions
What was the CPI in 1945?
The CPI-U annual average for 1945 was 18.0 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 17.8 to 18.2.
What was the inflation rate in 1945?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 2.3% in 1945; December to December the change was +2.2%.
How much is $100 from 1945 worth today?
About $1,861.00 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.