CPI-U in 1961
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 29.9 in 1961 (1982–84 = 100), 1.0% above the 1960 average. From December 1960 to December 1961, prices rose 0.7%. Prices in August 2026 were 11.20 times their 1961 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1961
The highest monthly index in 1961 was 30.0 (December), the lowest 29.8 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +0.7% in October to +1.7% in January. 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 1961 | 29.8 | 0.0% | +1.7% |
| February 1961 | 29.8 | 0.0% | +1.4% |
| March 1961 | 29.8 | 0.0% | +1.4% |
| April 1961 | 29.8 | 0.0% | +1.0% |
| May 1961 | 29.8 | 0.0% | +1.0% |
| June 1961 | 29.8 | 0.0% | +0.7% |
| July 1961 | 30.0 | +0.7% | +1.4% |
| August 1961 | 29.9 | −0.3% | +1.0% |
| September 1961 | 30.0 | +0.3% | +1.4% |
| October 1961 | 30.0 | 0.0% | +0.7% |
| November 1961 | 30.0 | 0.0% | +0.7% |
| December 1961 | 30.0 | 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 29.9 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1961: common questions
What was the CPI in 1961?
The CPI-U annual average for 1961 was 29.9 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 29.8 to 30.0.
What was the inflation rate in 1961?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 1.0% in 1961; December to December the change was +0.7%.
How much is $100 from 1961 worth today?
About $1,120.33 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.