CPI-U in 1969
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 36.7 in 1969 (1982–84 = 100), 5.5% above the 1968 average. From December 1968 to December 1969, prices rose 6.2%. Prices in August 2026 were 9.13 times their 1969 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1969
The highest monthly index in 1969 was 37.7 (December), the lowest 35.6 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +4.4% in January to +6.2% in December. 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 1969 | 35.6 | +0.3% | +4.4% |
| February 1969 | 35.8 | +0.6% | +4.7% |
| March 1969 | 36.1 | +0.8% | +5.2% |
| April 1969 | 36.3 | +0.6% | +5.5% |
| May 1969 | 36.4 | +0.3% | +5.5% |
| June 1969 | 36.6 | +0.5% | +5.5% |
| July 1969 | 36.8 | +0.5% | +5.4% |
| August 1969 | 37.0 | +0.5% | +5.7% |
| September 1969 | 37.1 | +0.3% | +5.7% |
| October 1969 | 37.3 | +0.5% | +5.7% |
| November 1969 | 37.5 | +0.5% | +5.9% |
| December 1969 | 37.7 | +0.5% | +6.2% |
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 36.7 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1969: common questions
What was the CPI in 1969?
The CPI-U annual average for 1969 was 36.7 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 35.6 to 37.7.
What was the inflation rate in 1969?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 5.5% in 1969; December to December the change was +6.2%.
How much is $100 from 1969 worth today?
About $912.75 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.