CPI-U in 1956
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 27.2 in 1956 (1982–84 = 100), 1.5% above the 1955 average. From December 1955 to December 1956, prices rose 3.0%. Prices in August 2026 were 12.32 times their 1956 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1956
The highest monthly index in 1956 was 27.6 (December), the lowest 26.8 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +0.4% in January to +3.0% in December. 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 1956 | 26.8 | 0.0% | +0.4% |
| February 1956 | 26.8 | 0.0% | +0.4% |
| March 1956 | 26.8 | 0.0% | +0.4% |
| April 1956 | 26.9 | +0.4% | +0.7% |
| May 1956 | 27.0 | +0.4% | +1.1% |
| June 1956 | 27.2 | +0.7% | +1.9% |
| July 1956 | 27.4 | +0.7% | +2.2% |
| August 1956 | 27.3 | −0.4% | +1.9% |
| September 1956 | 27.4 | +0.4% | +1.9% |
| October 1956 | 27.5 | +0.4% | +2.2% |
| November 1956 | 27.5 | 0.0% | +2.2% |
| December 1956 | 27.6 | +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 27.2 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1956: common questions
What was the CPI in 1956?
The CPI-U annual average for 1956 was 27.2 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 26.8 to 27.6.
What was the inflation rate in 1956?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 1.5% in 1956; December to December the change was +3.0%.
How much is $100 from 1956 worth today?
About $1,231.54 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.