CPI-U in 1957
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 28.1 in 1957 (1982–84 = 100), 3.3% above the 1956 average. From December 1956 to December 1957, prices rose 2.9%. Prices in August 2026 were 11.92 times their 1957 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1957
The highest monthly index in 1957 was 28.4 (December), the lowest 27.6 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +2.9% in December to +3.7% 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 1957 | 27.6 | 0.0% | +3.0% |
| February 1957 | 27.7 | +0.4% | +3.4% |
| March 1957 | 27.8 | +0.4% | +3.7% |
| April 1957 | 27.9 | +0.4% | +3.7% |
| May 1957 | 28.0 | +0.4% | +3.7% |
| June 1957 | 28.1 | +0.4% | +3.3% |
| July 1957 | 28.3 | +0.7% | +3.3% |
| August 1957 | 28.3 | 0.0% | +3.7% |
| September 1957 | 28.3 | 0.0% | +3.3% |
| October 1957 | 28.3 | 0.0% | +2.9% |
| November 1957 | 28.4 | +0.4% | +3.3% |
| December 1957 | 28.4 | 0.0% | +2.9% |
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 28.1 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1957: common questions
What was the CPI in 1957?
The CPI-U annual average for 1957 was 28.1 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 27.6 to 28.4.
What was the inflation rate in 1957?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 3.3% in 1957; December to December the change was +2.9%.
How much is $100 from 1957 worth today?
About $1,192.10 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.