CPI-U in 1948
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 24.1 in 1948 (1982–84 = 100), 8.1% above the 1947 average. From December 1947 to December 1948, prices rose 3.0%. Prices in August 2026 were 13.90 times their 1948 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1948
The highest monthly index in 1948 was 24.5 (September), the lowest 23.4 (March). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +3.0% in December to +10.2% in January. 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 1948 | 23.7 | +1.3% | +10.2% |
| February 1948 | 23.5 | −0.8% | +9.3% |
| March 1948 | 23.4 | −0.4% | +6.8% |
| April 1948 | 23.8 | +1.7% | +8.7% |
| May 1948 | 23.9 | +0.4% | +9.1% |
| June 1948 | 24.1 | +0.8% | +9.5% |
| July 1948 | 24.4 | +1.2% | +9.9% |
| August 1948 | 24.5 | +0.4% | +8.9% |
| September 1948 | 24.5 | 0.0% | +6.5% |
| October 1948 | 24.4 | −0.4% | +6.1% |
| November 1948 | 24.2 | −0.8% | +4.8% |
| December 1948 | 24.1 | −0.4% | +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 24.1 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1948: common questions
What was the CPI in 1948?
The CPI-U annual average for 1948 was 24.1 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 23.4 to 24.5.
What was the inflation rate in 1948?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 8.1% in 1948; December to December the change was +3.0%.
How much is $100 from 1948 worth today?
About $1,389.96 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.