CPI-U in 1970
The U.S. Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) averaged 38.8 in 1970 (1982–84 = 100), 5.7% above the 1969 average. From December 1969 to December 1970, prices rose 5.6%. Prices in August 2026 were 8.63 times their 1970 level.
Monthly CPI-U index values, 1970
The highest monthly index in 1970 was 39.8 (December), the lowest 37.8 (January). The 12-month inflation rate ranged from +5.4% in August to +6.2% in January. 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 1970 | 37.8 | +0.3% | +6.2% |
| February 1970 | 38.0 | +0.5% | +6.1% |
| March 1970 | 38.2 | +0.5% | +5.8% |
| April 1970 | 38.5 | +0.8% | +6.1% |
| May 1970 | 38.6 | +0.3% | +6.0% |
| June 1970 | 38.8 | +0.5% | +6.0% |
| July 1970 | 39.0 | +0.5% | +6.0% |
| August 1970 | 39.0 | 0.0% | +5.4% |
| September 1970 | 39.2 | +0.5% | +5.7% |
| October 1970 | 39.4 | +0.5% | +5.6% |
| November 1970 | 39.6 | +0.5% | +5.6% |
| December 1970 | 39.8 | +0.5% | +5.6% |
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 38.8 as published by the BLS.
CPI 1970: common questions
What was the CPI in 1970?
The CPI-U annual average for 1970 was 38.8 on the 1982–84 = 100 base. Monthly values ranged from 37.8 to 39.8.
What was the inflation rate in 1970?
Measured by annual averages, consumer prices rose 5.7% in 1970; December to December the change was +5.6%.
How much is $100 from 1970 worth today?
About $863.35 in August 2026 prices, based on the change in CPI-U. Use the inflation calculator for other amounts.