CPI-U in 1947
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 22.3 in 1947 (1982–84 = 100), 14.4% above the 1946 average. From December 1946 to December 1947, prices rose 8.8%. Prices in August 2026 were 15.02 times their 1947 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1947
The highest monthly index in 1947 was 23.4 (December), the lowest 21.5 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +8.5% in November to +19.7% in March. 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 1947 | 21.5 | 0.0% | +18.1% |
| February 1947 | 21.5 | 0.0% | +18.8% |
| March 1947 | 21.9 | +1.9% | +19.7% |
| April 1947 | 21.9 | 0.0% | +19.0% |
| May 1947 | 21.9 | 0.0% | +18.4% |
| June 1947 | 22.0 | +0.5% | +17.6% |
| July 1947 | 22.2 | +0.9% | +12.1% |
| August 1947 | 22.5 | +1.4% | +11.4% |
| September 1947 | 23.0 | +2.2% | +12.7% |
| October 1947 | 23.0 | 0.0% | +10.6% |
| November 1947 | 23.1 | +0.4% | +8.5% |
| December 1947 | 23.4 | +1.3% | +8.8% |
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 22.3 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1947: common questions
What was the CPI in 1947?
The CPI-U annual average for 1947 was 22.3 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 21.5 to 23.4.
What was the inflation rate in 1947?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 14.4% in 1947; December to December the change was +8.8%.
How much is $100 from 1947 worth today?
About $1,502.15 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.