CPI-U in 1959
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 29.1 in 1959 (1982–84 = 100), 0.7% above the 1958 average. From December 1958 to December 1959, prices rose 1.7%. Prices in August 2026 were 11.51 times their 1959 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1959
The highest monthly index in 1959 was 29.4 (December), the lowest 28.9 (February). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +0.3% in April to +1.7% 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 1959 | 29.0 | +0.3% | +1.4% |
| February 1959 | 28.9 | −0.3% | +1.0% |
| March 1959 | 28.9 | 0.0% | +0.3% |
| April 1959 | 29.0 | +0.3% | +0.3% |
| May 1959 | 29.0 | 0.0% | +0.3% |
| June 1959 | 29.1 | +0.3% | +0.7% |
| July 1959 | 29.2 | +0.3% | +0.7% |
| August 1959 | 29.2 | 0.0% | +1.0% |
| September 1959 | 29.3 | +0.3% | +1.4% |
| October 1959 | 29.4 | +0.3% | +1.7% |
| November 1959 | 29.4 | 0.0% | +1.4% |
| December 1959 | 29.4 | 0.0% | +1.7% |
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 29.1 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1959: common questions
What was the CPI in 1959?
The CPI-U annual average for 1959 was 29.1 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 28.9 to 29.4.
What was the inflation rate in 1959?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 0.7% in 1959; December to December the change was +1.7%.
How much is $100 from 1959 worth today?
About $1,151.13 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.