CPI-U in 1946
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 19.5 in 1946 (1982–84 = 100), 8.3% above the 1945 average. From December 1945 to December 1946, prices rose 18.1%. Prices in August 2026 were 17.18 times their 1946 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1946
The highest monthly index in 1946 was 21.5 (December), the lowest 18.1 (February). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +1.7% in February to +18.1% in December. Historical context — Post-war decontrol (1946–1948): Removing wartime price controls set off a burst of inflation that peaked near 20% in 1947.
| Month | CPI-U index | Change from prior month | 12-month change |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1946 | 18.2 | 0.0% | +2.2% |
| February 1946 | 18.1 | −0.5% | +1.7% |
| March 1946 | 18.3 | +1.1% | +2.8% |
| April 1946 | 18.4 | +0.5% | +3.4% |
| May 1946 | 18.5 | +0.5% | +3.4% |
| June 1946 | 18.7 | +1.1% | +3.3% |
| July 1946 | 19.8 | +5.9% | +9.4% |
| August 1946 | 20.2 | +2.0% | +11.6% |
| September 1946 | 20.4 | +1.0% | +12.7% |
| October 1946 | 20.8 | +2.0% | +14.9% |
| November 1946 | 21.3 | +2.4% | +17.7% |
| December 1946 | 21.5 | +0.9% | +18.1% |
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 19.5 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1946: common questions
What was the CPI in 1946?
The CPI-U annual average for 1946 was 19.5 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 18.1 to 21.5.
What was the inflation rate in 1946?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 8.3% in 1946; December to December the change was +18.1%.
How much is $100 from 1946 worth today?
About $1,717.85 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.