CPI-U in 1950
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 24.1 in 1950 (1982–84 = 100), 1.3% above the 1949 average. From December 1949 to December 1950, prices rose 5.9%. Prices in August 2026 were 13.90 times their 1950 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1950
The highest monthly index in 1950 was 25.0 (December), the lowest 23.5 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from −2.1% in January to +5.9% in December. Historical context — Korean War (1950–1952): War-related buying pushed inflation up for a short period.
| Month | CPI-U index | Change from prior month | 12-month change |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1950 | 23.5 | −0.4% | −2.1% |
| February 1950 | 23.5 | 0.0% | −1.3% |
| March 1950 | 23.6 | +0.4% | −0.8% |
| April 1950 | 23.6 | 0.0% | −1.3% |
| May 1950 | 23.7 | +0.4% | −0.4% |
| June 1950 | 23.8 | +0.4% | −0.4% |
| July 1950 | 24.1 | +1.3% | +1.7% |
| August 1950 | 24.3 | +0.8% | +2.1% |
| September 1950 | 24.4 | +0.4% | +2.1% |
| October 1950 | 24.6 | +0.8% | +3.8% |
| November 1950 | 24.7 | +0.4% | +3.8% |
| December 1950 | 25.0 | +1.2% | +5.9% |
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 1950: common questions
What was the CPI in 1950?
The CPI-U annual average for 1950 was 24.1 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 23.5 to 25.0.
What was the inflation rate in 1950?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 1.3% in 1950; December to December the change was +5.9%.
How much is $100 from 1950 worth today?
About $1,389.96 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.