CPI-U in 1953
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 26.7 in 1953 (1982–84 = 100), 0.8% above the 1952 average. From December 1952 to December 1953, prices rose 0.7%. Prices in August 2026 were 12.55 times their 1953 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1953
The highest monthly index in 1953 was 27.0 (October), the lowest 26.5 (February). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +0.4% in July to +1.1% in March. Historical context — Post-war stability (1953–1965): Inflation mostly stayed between 0% and 3% a year.
| Month | CPI-U index | Change from prior month | 12-month change |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1953 | 26.6 | −0.4% | +0.4% |
| February 1953 | 26.5 | −0.4% | +0.8% |
| March 1953 | 26.6 | +0.4% | +1.1% |
| April 1953 | 26.6 | 0.0% | +0.8% |
| May 1953 | 26.7 | +0.4% | +1.1% |
| June 1953 | 26.8 | +0.4% | +1.1% |
| July 1953 | 26.8 | 0.0% | +0.4% |
| August 1953 | 26.9 | +0.4% | +0.7% |
| September 1953 | 26.9 | 0.0% | +0.7% |
| October 1953 | 27.0 | +0.4% | +1.1% |
| November 1953 | 26.9 | −0.4% | +0.7% |
| December 1953 | 26.9 | 0.0% | +0.7% |
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 26.7 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1953: common questions
What was the CPI in 1953?
The CPI-U annual average for 1953 was 26.7 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 26.5 to 27.0.
What was the inflation rate in 1953?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 0.8% in 1953; December to December the change was +0.7%.
How much is $100 from 1953 worth today?
About $1,254.61 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.