CPI-U in 1951
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 26.0 in 1951 (1982–84 = 100), 7.9% above the 1950 average. From December 1950 to December 1951, prices rose 6.0%. Prices in August 2026 were 12.88 times their 1951 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1951
The highest monthly index in 1951 was 26.5 (December), the lowest 25.4 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +6.0% in December to +9.4% in February. 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 1951 | 25.4 | +1.6% | +8.1% |
| February 1951 | 25.7 | +1.2% | +9.4% |
| March 1951 | 25.8 | +0.4% | +9.3% |
| April 1951 | 25.8 | 0.0% | +9.3% |
| May 1951 | 25.9 | +0.4% | +9.3% |
| June 1951 | 25.9 | 0.0% | +8.8% |
| July 1951 | 25.9 | 0.0% | +7.5% |
| August 1951 | 25.9 | 0.0% | +6.6% |
| September 1951 | 26.1 | +0.8% | +7.0% |
| October 1951 | 26.2 | +0.4% | +6.5% |
| November 1951 | 26.4 | +0.8% | +6.9% |
| December 1951 | 26.5 | +0.4% | +6.0% |
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 26.0 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1951: common questions
What was the CPI in 1951?
The CPI-U annual average for 1951 was 26.0 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 25.4 to 26.5.
What was the inflation rate in 1951?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 7.9% in 1951; December to December the change was +6.0%.
How much is $100 from 1951 worth today?
About $1,288.38 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.