CPI-U in 1968
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 34.8 in 1968 (1982–84 = 100), 4.2% above the 1967 average. From December 1967 to December 1968, prices rose 4.7%. Prices in August 2026 were 9.63 times their 1968 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1968
The highest monthly index in 1968 was 35.5 (December), the lowest 34.1 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +3.6% in January to +4.7% in October. Historical context — Rising inflation (1966–1972): Vietnam War and Great Society spending pushed inflation higher; President Nixon imposed wage and price controls in 1971.
| Month | CPI-U index | Change from prior month | 12-month change |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1968 | 34.1 | +0.6% | +3.6% |
| February 1968 | 34.2 | +0.3% | +4.0% |
| March 1968 | 34.3 | +0.3% | +3.9% |
| April 1968 | 34.4 | +0.3% | +3.9% |
| May 1968 | 34.5 | +0.3% | +3.9% |
| June 1968 | 34.7 | +0.6% | +4.2% |
| July 1968 | 34.9 | +0.6% | +4.5% |
| August 1968 | 35.0 | +0.3% | +4.5% |
| September 1968 | 35.1 | +0.3% | +4.5% |
| October 1968 | 35.3 | +0.6% | +4.7% |
| November 1968 | 35.4 | +0.3% | +4.7% |
| December 1968 | 35.5 | +0.3% | +4.7% |
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 34.8 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1968: common questions
What was the CPI in 1968?
The CPI-U annual average for 1968 was 34.8 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 34.1 to 35.5.
What was the inflation rate in 1968?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 4.2% in 1968; December to December the change was +4.7%.
How much is $100 from 1968 worth today?
About $962.59 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.